An Introduction to Scientific Research Methods in Geography

By Daniel R. Montello and Paul Sutton

Book Overview

An Introduction to Scientific Research Methods in Geography applies the research, philosophy and methods of the social and natural sciences to topics in geography, while recognizing the pluralism of geography, avoiding simplistic conceptions of scientific geography, such as narrowly "positivistic," "objective," or "quantitative." In this way, the text attempts to promote rigor and progressiveness in geography, helping to build bridges among the various subfields of geography and the other social and natural sciences, while avoiding some of the limiting meta-theoretical conflicts that have characterized geography in recent decades.

Key Features

Provides a broad and integrative introduction to the conduct and interpretation of scientific research in geographyCovers both conceptual and technical aspects, and is applicable to all topical areas in geographic research, including human and physical geography, and geographic information scienceDiscusses all parts of the research process, including: Scientific philosophyBasic research conceptsGenerating research ideasCommunicating research and using library resourcesSampling and research designQuantitative and qualitative data collectionData analysisDisplay and interpretationReliability and validityUsing geographic information techniques in researchEthical conduct in research

Intended Audience: The text is intended for undergraduate and graduate courses on Research Methods in Geography and related disciplines, such as Environmental Studies. In addition, it will be valuable as a reference work or primer for students, faculty, and other professionals who want a concise and integrated introduction to research methods in geography.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1412902878
• ISBN13: 9781412902878
• Release Date: March 2006
• Publisher: Sage Publications, Inc
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 1.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 7.1" x 9.8"

Customer Reviews

A perfect beginner's coursebook

For a comprehensive college-level study of geographic research methods, choose AN INTRODUCTION TO SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH METHODS IN GEOGRAPHY, which covers the entire research process and describes basic concepts, from generating ideas to using library resources and using ethical judgment in conducting, compiling and presenting research. Plenty of illustration of different geographic research techniques include boxed summaries and spatial examples, which self-tests, assessments, and exercises make for a perfect beginner's coursebook. Diane C. Donovan, Editor California Bookwatch