RESEARCH DESIGN

Book Details

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Author: Catherine Hakim

• Language: English

• Edition: 2023

• ISBN: 9788131611982

• Pages: 224

• Cover: Hardcover

About the Book

Research Design by Catherine Hakim is a landmark text that provides a systematic and accessible exploration of all facets of social research design, making it an essential guide for both professional social scientists and those commissioning or utilizing social research. As the academic and policy landscape evolves with growing demands for multidisciplinary, large-scale, and contract-based research, the importance of rigorous and well-planned research design has never been greater.

This authoritative volume introduces readers to eight primary types of social research studies—ranging from ad hoc and regular surveys to qualitative research, case studies, longitudinal studies, experimental methods, administrative data analysis, and meta-analyses. It offers insightful explanations of each method’s purpose, strengths, and limitations, alongside practical guidance on how and when to use them individually or in combination within a broader research programme.

Hakim emphasizes critical decisions in research design, such as the choice of unit and level of analysis, sampling strategies, dealing with multidisciplinary objectives, managing conflicting stakeholder interests, and ensuring replication. The discussion is enriched with a wide spectrum of examples drawn from across the social sciences—including sociology, political science, economics, geography, psychology, and anthropology—as well as from key policy domains such as health, education, crime, family studies, and the labour market.

Structured in two parts, the book first delves into the core study types, followed by a detailed examination of assembling complete research programmes, addressing organizational, strategic, and funding considerations. Its non-technical language and broad relevance make it a valuable reference for academic researchers, policy analysts, government agencies, and postgraduate students.

About the Author

Catherine Hakim is a renowned British social scientist and currently serves as a Professorial Research Fellow at Civitas, a leading London think tank. She previously held senior research positions at the London School of Economics, the Centre for Policy Research in London, and the WZB Berlin Social Science Center. A prolific scholar, Hakim has authored over 100 academic papers and numerous influential books and textbooks covering topics such as women's employment, labour markets, social attitudes, family policy, and cross-national comparative research. Her groundbreaking work on research methodology has been instrumental in shaping modern social science research practices.