A Very Short, Fairly Interesting and Reasonably Cheap Book about Qualitative Research (Very Short, Fairly Interesting & Cheap Books);

David Silverman's second edition provides a refreshing introduction to doing and debating qualitative research. An antidote to the standard textbook, this new edition shows how research can be methodologically inventive, empirically rigorous, theoretically-alive and practically relevant.

 

Using materials ranging from photographs to novels and newspaper stories, the book demonstrates that getting to grips with qualitative methods means asking ourselves fundamental questions about how we are influenced by contemporary culture. By drawing on examples from websites and social media in the new edition, Silverman's text acknowledges how our social worlds are changing and explores new arenas for data collection. A new Glossary of Received Ideas aims to challenge conventional understandings of terms central to qualitative research and will inform, amuse and stimulate readers.

 

This book is perfect pre-course reading for those new to research as well as seasoned researchers who want to reflect on their practice.

 

SAGE’s A Very Short, Fairly Interesting and Reasonably Cheap Book About series shies away from the sterility of conventional textbooks, offering students an informal and accessible overview of the field that questions and challenges the traditional literature.  You can view all the books in the VSFI series here.