This book provides an introduction to using quantitative methods in educational research. The author writes for non-mathematical students, avoiding the use of mathematical formulae wherever possible. No prior knowledge of quantitative methods is needed to use this book. The author’s approach features · a realistic approach, using actual databases · an emphasis on the use of effect sizes · a user-friendly approach, based on the latest version of SPSS throug… More >>
#1 by Julesagogo on July 2, 2010 - 6:31 pm
This book is a sort of hybrid, crossing a primer on basic stats with an SPSS manual. Having already had a basic introduction to research stats, I would have preferred it if the book would have dispensed with the basic stats and provided more depth and more examples in SPSS, including factor analyses and more information on general linear model calculations. That said, if you’re looking for an introduction to or a refresher on research statistics including research design, validity, reliability and generalizability plus some guidance on applying this information to SPSS, this would a good choice.
The general information on statistics is nothing groundbreaking, but it is described in an informal, almost conversational tone with plenty of examples from education research. The book’s strength is showing you exactly how to run each test in SPSS, including screen shots. Another plus is the guidance in interpreting SPSS output. In my experience, one of the biggest challenges in interpreting results with SPSS is that more information than you need is provided. The screen shots used in this book help to clarify by circling relevant information and discussing why it is relevant. Those who are more advanced in their understanding of statistics may find this annoying, though, because the author tends to dismiss output as “not important”, when it does have an underlying purpose.
The book does lose a few points for the numerous spelling errors the editor let get through (a typical example is in the Table of contents : “Want is ANOVA?”).
If you’re looking for more in-depth information on research statistics that’s also understandable to novices as well as those with additional experience (but no SPSS), I HIGHLY recommend “Your Statistical Consultant” by Newton & Rudestam. For SPSS, I haven’t used it myself, but I have had Norusis’ “SPSS Guide to Data Analysis” recommended to me by both professors and grad students.
Rating: 3 / 5
#2 by Catherine Walter on July 2, 2010 - 9:14 pm
At last, a book that not only explains statistics for educational research clearly, accurately and accessibly, but also gives step-by-step instructions – with screen shots – for how to carry out each procedure using SPSS. Muijs’ book is a must-have for every education major, as well as for arts graduates doing postgraduate qualifications in education. I will be using it this year to introduce my postgrads, most of whom have backgrounds in the arts, to the stats they need for their courses; and I’ll urge them to buy their own copies. This will not only give them a ready reference book, but will also, I’m sure, reduce significantly the numbers of anguished emails and last-minute one-to-one tutorials I succumb to in the frantic fortnight before term papers are due. Bless your heart, Daniel Muijs.
Catherine Walter, Institute of Education, University of London
Rating: 5 / 5