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Sociological Practice
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Sociological Practice
Linking Theory and Social Research

September 1998 | 208 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd
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In this textbook, Derek Layder offers a better understanding of the links between theory and research, and provides an analysis of the relationship between the two. He develops clear usable strategies to encourage theory development in the practical context of social research, and introduces a new approach - adaptive theory - which can be used to generate new theory as well as develop existing theory in conjunction with empirical research. Layder concludes by providing an outline of new rules of sociological method that show how adaptive theory can be put into practice.

 
The Links between Theory and Research
 
Elements of the Research Process
 
Analysing Data with Theory in Mind
 
Social Research and Concept-Indicator Links
 
From Theory to Data
Starting To Theorize

 
 
Towards Adaptive Theory
 
Some New Rules of Method

Time honoured text that supports the researcher in the recognition of the significance of complexity thinking for the social sciences. Supports understanding and guides social theorists who wish to ground themselves in empirical evidence. Easy to follow links between social theory and social research.

Mrs Sharon Colilles
Carnegie Faculty of Sports & Education, Leeds Beckett University
February 4, 2015
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An intelligent and readable book that highlights the role of theory in good research

Ms Jean Hine
Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, De Montfort University
October 11, 2012
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A justifiable classic, prescient in its recognition of the significance of complexity thinking for the social sciences

Mr Mark Hardy
Dept of Social Policy and Social Work, York University
May 9, 2012
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SAGE Research Methods is a research methods tool created to help researchers, faculty and students with their research projects. SAGE Research Methods links over 175,000 pages of SAGE’s renowned book, journal and reference content with truly advanced search and discovery tools. Researchers can explore methods concepts to help them design research projects, understand particular methods or identify a new method, conduct their research, and write up their findings. Since SAGE Research Methods focuses on methodology rather than disciplines, it can be used across the social sciences, health sciences, and more.

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