Why Research Methods Matter: Essential Skills for Decision Making

This concise resource provides practical applications of why research methods are important for public administrators, who do not routinely perform data analysis, but often find themselves having to evaluate and make important decisions based on data analysis and evaluative reports they receive. It is also intended as a supplemental text for research methods courses at the graduate level and upper division undergraduate level. Why Research Methods Matter is essential reading for current and future managers in the public sector who seek to become savvy consumers of research. Praise for Why Research Methods Matter: “Susan Gooden and RaJade Berry-James present a clear, concise primer on the art and science of research and its application and value to public service professionals. Those of us who have dealt with the ‘relevance challenge’ will welcome this practice-oriented book and its argument for understanding and using a scientific approach that also recognizes a role for professional expertise in decision making.” — C. Michelle Piskulich, Oakland University “This highly practical textbook for program evaluation and research in the social sciences becomes critically important as our workforce is required to practice evidence-based decision making. Why Research Methods Matter provides the tools necessary to engage as an originator or consumer of evidence.” — Maria P. Aristigueta, University of Delaware “Public administration professors connect theory to practice. In so doing, we prepare students to make good decisions based on analysis of data. However, connecting these two can be an arduous task. Gooden and Berry-James have done yeoman’s work in bringing to life a subject that is not intuitive for all students. The book offers an excellent and indispensable guide to research methods for first timers. I highly recommend it.” — Charles E. Menifield, Rutgers University–Newark Read more