Research Methods in Social Work

Following the journey of two social work interns, the narrative reveals how classroom theory transforms into research practice. It covers program design and evaluation through ethical dilemmas, reliable measurement, and challenges with comparison group designs, engaging readers in practical research steps. Research Methods in Social Work helps students develop evidence-based practice by involving them in the process of research methodology. An innovative storytelling approach follows two students engaged in internships who go through the steps and tasks required to design a program and evaluate it in their practicum. Readers can see how realistic decisions arise in planning research and the activities necessary to support and conduct a research effort. Students learn the importance of comparison group designs, operationalizing variables, the use of valid and reliable measurements, and how these can affect the obtained results. Specific topics include research ethics, developing questionnaires and instruments, techniques for selecting client and community samples, and evaluating one's practice with single system designs. A strong asset is the large number of current references from professional social work journals. The ninth edition presents enhanced pedagogical features in every chapter including new reflection questions as well as potential assignments, discussion questions, and group discussion projects. It also maps to the 2022 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) of the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This text prepares students to successfully consume social work research and lays the foundation for those who may want to focus on research during their academic and professional careers.