Foundations of Research Methods for Social Workers 

A Critical Thinking Approach

(2nd edition, 2026)

(802 pages)

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This book is a must-read for social work students. It teaches them the basics of research methodology, but it also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking. Instead of just following the rules, it encourages students to question assumptions, ask thoughtful questions, evaluate evidence, and use research findings in a way that’s both ethical and effective.

The book uses the scientific method to explain research in a way that’s easy to understand. It helps students feel less intimidated and more confident in their ability to do research.

Research is a powerful tool that can help us make a positive impact on the world. It can help us ensure that our practices are ethical, informed, and socially responsible. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re feeling unsure about what to do next, this book is a great resource for learning how to do research in a way that’s both effective and meaningful.

Table of Contents

PART I:  Contexts of Social Work Research

         1   Toward Accountability

         2   Research Questions

         3   Toward Evidence-Based Practice

         4   Literature Reviews

         5   Research Ethics

         6   Culturally Competent Research

PART II: Knowledge Development

         7  The Scientific Method of Inquiry

   8  The Quantitative Research Approach

         9  The Qualitative Research Approach

       10  The Mixed-Methods Research Approach

PART III: Measuring Variables

         11  Measuring Variables

         12  Measuring Instruments

PART IV: Sampling and Research Designs

         13   Sampling

         14   Single-Subject Designs

         15   Group Designs

PART V: Collecting and Analyzing Data

         16   Collecting Quantitative Data

         17   Selecting a Data-Collection Method

         18   Analyzing Quantitative Data

         19   Analyzing Qualitative Data

PART VI: Research Proposals and Reports

         20  Quantitative Proposals and Reports

   21  Qualitative Proposals and Reports

      Instructors:

       Click here to obtain:

• True/false/multiple choice questions by chapter
• PowerPoint slides by chapter
• Tables and figures by chapter
• Matching concepts with definitions by chapter

Social Work Research Proposals

A Workbook

(2nd edition, 2021)

(272 pages)

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This book is super affordable and really practical for social work students who are writing their first research proposals. It’s written in a simple way that’s easy to understand.

Basically, it breaks down the essential parts (with helpful tips) that you need to cover in each of the 12 sections of a basic research proposal.

Table of Contents

Preface for Instructors     

Introduction for Students    

PART I: Front Matter    

Section 1: Title Page and Title     

Section 3: Table of Contents     

PART II: Identifying the Problem     

Section 4: Introduction     

Section 5: Literature Review     

Section 6: Problem     

Section 7: Research Question     

PART III: Solving the Problem    

Section 8: Method    

Section 8a: Research Design    

Section 8b: Sample     

Section 8c: Instrumentation     

Section 8d: Data Collection     

Section 8e: Data Analysis     

Section 8f: Ethical and Cultural Issues    

PART IV: Evaluating the Proposed Solution  

Section 9: Limitations     

Section 10: Significance    

PART V: Back Matter     

Section 11: References     

Section 12: Appendices  

Appendix A: Copies of official letters of permission to   conduct your research study

Appendix B: Cooperating agency description (if       needed)

Appendix C: Timelines

Appendix D: Measuring instruments (an individual      appendix for each instrument)

Appendix E: Copy of informed consent form (if           needed)

Appendix F: Copy of informed assent form (if needed)

Appendix G: Copy of IRB approval from your              university/college (if needed)

Appendix H: Verbatim instructions given to your           research participants (if needed)

Appendix I:   Interview protocols (if needed)

Appendix J:   Data collection plan

Appendix K:  Data analysis plan

Appendix L:   Personnel (if needed)

Appendix M: Copies of résumés of key people

Appendix N:  Dissemination plan

Appendix O:  Budget

      Instructors:

      Click here to obtain:

• Templates for homework assignments
• Templates for proposal assignments