Sage Secondary Data Analysis

One central and enduring image of the social science researcher is of an individual who commits a great deal of time to collecting original, primary data from a field of enquiry. This approach is often underpinned by a sincerely held belief that key research questions can only be explored by the collection of ever new, and ever greater amounts of data, or that already existing data are insufficient for researchers to test their ideas. Yet such an approach to social science research can be problematic not least because the collection of primary data can be an expensive, time-consuming, and even wasteful approach to social enquiry. Secondary analysis can serve many purposes, as well as being a valid approach in its own right. However, despite its widespread application, secondary analysis is often undervalued or perceived to be the preserve of only those interested in the re-use of large-scale survey data. Highlighting both the theory and practice of secondary analysis and the use of secondary sources, this collection considers the nature of secondary analysis as a research tool; reflects on the definitional debates surrounding terms such as secondary analysis, data re-use and restudies; illustrates how secondary analysis is used in social science research; and finally reviews the practical, methodological and ethical aspects of secondary analysis. Volume One: Using Secondary Sources and Secondary Analysis Volume Two: Quantitative Approaches to Secondary Analysis Volume Three: Qualitative Data and Research in Secondary Analysis Volume Four: Ethical, Methodological and Practical Issues in Secondary Analysis

A comprehensive guide to carrying out Qualitative Secondary Analysis (QSA) that brings together expert advice and professional insight from leading researchers who have developed innovative theories and methods of QSA. Exploring crucial components of research and analysis—such as where to find resources, how to search within a resource, and working with both paper archives and non-textual data—each chapter offers insightful case studies, links to further reading and applied helpful hints and tips to help effectively apply these innovations to further the reader’s own research. A must read for Social Science students, early career researchers and researchers new to the field of QSA, this text will help readers through every aspect of a research process using QSA, from application to implications.

Many professional, high-quality surveys collect data on people′s behaviour, experiences, lifestyles and attitudes. The data they produce is more accessible than ever before. This book provides students with a comprehensive introduction to using this data, as well as transactional data and big data sources, in their own research projects. Here you will find all you need to know about locating, accessing, preparing and analysing secondary data, along with step-by-step instructions for using IBM SPSS Statistics. You will learn how to: Create a robust research question and design that suits secondary analysis Locate, access and explore data online Understand data documentation Check and ′clean′ secondary data Manage and analyse your data to produce meaningful results Replicate analyses of data in published articles and books Using case studies and video animations to illustrate each step of your research, this book provides you with the quantitative analysis skills you′ll need to pass your course, complete your research project and compete in the job market. Exercises throughout the book and on the book′s companion website give you an opportunity to practice, check your understanding and work hands on with real data as you′re learning.

Data archives provide rich and expansive sources of information for researchers. This book highlights the utility of secondary data analyses whilst showing you how to select the right datasets for your study, and in turn get the most out of your research. Topics include: · Generating your research question · Selecting appropriate datasets and variables · Examining univariate, bivariate and multivariate associations · Visualisng your data with tables and graphs Part of The SAGE Quantitative Research Kit, this book boosts students with know-how and confidence, to help them succeed on their quantitative research journey.

This volume presents strategies for locating survey data and provides a comprehensive guide to US social science data archives, describing several major data files. Although the data sets are American, the techniques are widely applicable.

What is qualitative secondary analysis? How can it be most effectively applied in social research? This timely and accomplished book offers readers a well informed, reliable guide to all aspects of qualitative secondary analysis. The book: · Defines secondary analysis · Distinguishes between quantitative and qualitative secondary analysis · Maps the main types of qualitative secondary analysis · Covers the key ethical and legal issues · Offers a practical guide to effective research · Sets the agenda for future developments in the subject Written by an experienced researcher and teacher with a background in sociology, the book is a comprehensive and invaluable introduction to this growing field of social research.