Research in information studies : a cultural and social approach

Research is integrated into the whole fabric of modern-day society and culture. It affects our lives in so many ways - from finding a job to knowing how to manage our health. Information studies designed to understand this array of information encompasses a wide expanse of disciplines. Many of these areas draw their philosophical and research bases from a mixture of disciplines within the social sciences and the humanities. This book takes a holistic view of these diverse areas and shows how they are united through the common thread of enhancing our knowledge of and understanding the world in which we all live.

ch. 1. What is research? -- ch. 2. Comparative research traditions -- ch. 3. Research and theory building : its role in modern-day information studies -- ch. 4. Better practice and sound theories -- ch. 5. Models for research and practice -- ch. 6. Major research processes and the reporting of research -- ch. 7. Tools of the trade : techniques for social and cultural research -- ch. 8. Quantitative and qualitative methods in information: an introduction and guide to terms -- ch 9. Ethical and legal behavior in research -- ch. 10. Research literature, critical thinking, and reporting of research -- Addendum A. Preparing the research report and grant writing -- Addendum B. Multidiscinplinary background readings, research studies and online resources.