“A powerful resource in that it addresses the fundamentals of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.” (*) Thoroughly updated, more concise than the previous edition, and available for the first time in paperback, this well-regarded textbook is designed to help students learn what to research, why to research, and how to research. The text integrates both quantitative and qualitative approaches to research in one volume, and includes the most comprehensive coverage of qualitative methods currently available. It covers such important topics as research design, specifying research problems, designing questionnaires and writing questions, designing and carrying out qualitative research, and analyzing both quantitative and qualitative research data. Heavily illustrated, classroom tested, and exceptionally readable and engaging, the text also provides specific instructions on the use of available statistical software programs such as Excel and SPSS. Endorsements:

"A powerful resource in that it addresses the fundamentals of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. McNabb frames his discussions specifically within the context of public and nonprofit management, and he offers a coherent and comprehensive framework for designing and executing a research design. Because McNabb addresses an impressive array of topics in detail and with clarity, the text is a powerful learning tool for students of research methodology as well as a useful reference for the experienced researcher." — Marc Holzer, Rutgers University-Campus at Newark (*)

"Dave McNabb has made a good book even better. Several things make this book unique. It is well referenced and 'normed' to the field of public administration; it is hands-on and experiential; and it goes beyond a simplistic approach to research, expertly weaving together positivistic and postpositivistic approaches, quantitative and qualitative design and analysis, and statistics and research methods. I've used many a text in my tenure as statistics/methods teacher—none can hold a candle to this one." — Cheryl Simrell King, The Evergreen State College

"I have used the first edition of this textbook with generally good reception from students. What always attracts me to Professor McNabb's book is its comprehensiveness and his approachable style of writing. The second edition builds on both of these important strengths with further improvements. Among many important features, the comprehensive overview of qualitative approaches is a crucial strength of the book." — Dragan Stanisevski, Mississippi State University