You are here

An Introduction to Data Analysis
Share

An Introduction to Data Analysis
Quantitative, Qualitative and Mixed Methods



November 2018 | 296 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd

Covering the general process of data analysis to finding, collecting, organizing, and presenting data, this book offers a complete introduction to the fundamentals of data analysis.

Using real-world case studies as illustrations, it helps readers understand theories behind and develop techniques for conducting quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods data analysis. With an easy-to-follow organization and clear, jargon-free language, it helps readers not only become proficient data analysts, but also develop the critical thinking skills necessary to assess analyses presented by others in both academic research and the popular media.

It includes advice on:

- Data analysis frameworks

- Validity and credibility of data

- Sampling techniques  

- Data management

- The big data phenomenon  

- Data visualisation

- Effective data communication

Whether you are new to data analysis or looking for a quick-reference guide to key principles of the process, this book will help you uncover nuances, complexities, patterns, and relationships among all types of data.


 
Chapter 1: Introducing Data
 
Chapter 2: Thinking like a Data Analyst
 
Chapter 3: Finding, Collecting, and Organizing Data
 
Chapter 4: Introducing Quantitative Data Analysis
 
Chapter 5: Applying Quantitative Data Analysis: Correlations, T-Tests, and Chi-Square Tests
 
Chapter 6: Introducing Qualitative Data Analysis
 
Chapter 7: Applying Qualitative Data Analysis
 
Chapter 8: Introducing Mixed Methods: How to Synthesize Quantitative and Qualitative Data Analysis Techniques
 
Chapter 9: Communicating Findings and Visualizing Data
 
Chapter 10: Conclusion: Becoming a Data Analyst

Bergin’s book has a clear and straight-forward structure covering the key points and issues required to engage in qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods research. This is an accessible introduction for undergraduates encountering research methods for the first time. 

Anna Robb
Lecturer in the School of Education and Social Work, University of Dundee

Tiffany Bergin is clearly an experienced and effective teacher, reminiscent of the late Cathie Marsh (both authors taught research methods at Cambridge).  This book is informed by professional experience outside academia and is recommended as required reading in research methods (quantitative, qualitative, and mixed) for courses in sociology, social policy and related areas.  It can serve either as a course text or as a self-teaching aid.
 
Well organised and easy to use, written in a no-nonsense style, addressing the reader throughout as "you" with emphasis on learning by doing hands-on with real data, it is full of sound practical advice and stresses the importance of organising your work and especially on communicating your findings.  

John F Hall
Retired academic survey researcher

Moved to a new university. Will consider adoption on courses there as the content was relevant and accessible.

Dr Seren Roberts
School of Healthcare Sciences, Bangor University
July 22, 2022

I really like this book. The quantitative section is especially useful, with the introduction of both real world, and well crafted fictional, data samples utilised well within the various statistical tests demonstrated. The level of complexity is just right, not too easy or straightforward to lessen understanding but not too difficult that it makes the reader put the book down and look elsewhere for data analysis support . The supporting assumptions provided after the examples are very helpful. Decision already made, I have referred the book to the university library for purchase.

Mr David Dowdle
School of the Built Environment, Salford University
January 8, 2021

This is a very good resource for students and teaching

Mrs Josephine D Morris
Interdiscipline, Winchester University
December 9, 2020

This is a very good resource

Mrs Josephine D Morris
Interdiscipline, Winchester University
December 9, 2020

This is a really comprehensive book, which covers the key aspects of data analysis that my doctoral students will encounter. It is clearly presented, and the style of writing makes it easily accessible for the students, no matter how far along their studies they are. The inclusion of various examples, checks and activities, has made it very useful in the teaching of such core skills, too.

Dr Philip Howlett
Faculty of Education (Chelmsford), Anglia Ruskin University
February 28, 2020

The book provides a synthesis of ideas on how qualitative data analysis provides a veritable tool to research development in geography. It provides an easy-to-dispense materials for teaching.

Dr Olabisi Michael Olapoju
Geography, Obafemi Awolowo University
October 31, 2019

My course includes the teaching of both quantitative and qualitative research methodology. The text is clear and comprehensible for the students of the course of study. So I recommend it to my students to deepen the concepts of research methodology.

Professor Gianpiero Greco
Education, Universita degli Studi di Bari
November 17, 2019

Great book added to multiple research based modules across ICT programmes.

Mr David Williams
Interdiscipline, Dublin Business School
February 18, 2020

For instructors

Select a Purchasing Option


Rent or Buy eBook
ISBN: 9781526452313

Hardcover
ISBN: 9781446295144
$167.00

Paperback
ISBN: 9781446295151
$56.00

This title is also available on SAGE Research Methods, the ultimate digital methods library. If your library doesn’t have access, ask your librarian to start a trial.