Logit, Probit, and Other Generalized Linear Models
What is the probability that something will occur, and how is that probability altered by a change in an independent variable? To answer these questions, Tim Futing Liao introduces a systematic way of interpreting commonly used probability models. Since much of what social scientists study is measured in noncontinuous ways and, therefore, cannot be analyzed using a classical regression model, it becomes necessary to model the likelihood that an event will occur. This book explores these models first by reviewing each probability model and then by presenting a systematic way for interpreting the results from each.
Critical Theory traces its roots from Marxism, through the renowned Frankfurt School, to a wide array of national and cultural traditions. Raymond Morrow's book traces the history and outlines the major tenets of critical theory for an undergraduate audience. He exemplifies the theory through an analysis of two leading social theorists: J[um]urgen Habermas and Anthony Giddens. Unique to this volume is the emphasis on the link between Critical Theory and empirical research and social science methodology, often thought to be incompatible.
A new, comprehensive framework for programme evaluation designed to bridge the gap between the method- and theory-oriented perspectives, is presented in this book, newly available in paper. Chen provides an intensive discussion of the nature and functions of programme theory, approaches to constructing programme theories, and the integration of programme theory with evaluation processes. Specific types of theory-driven evaluations, as well as principles and guidelines for application, are developed for meeting different policy purposes. Application of systematic strategies is illustrated by concrete examples from a variety of evaluation studies in different fields.
Content Design and Intrinsic Data Analysis in Behavioral Research
Using detailed examples, the authors introduce readers to the use of facet theory as a method for integrating content design with data analysis. They show how facet theory provides a strategy for conceptualizing a study, for formulating the study's variables in terms of its purposes, for systematic sampling of the variables and for formulating hypotheses. The first part of the book introduces mapping with specific emphasis on mapping sentences. Part Two explores procedures for processing multivariate data. In conclusion there is a discussion of the nature of scientific enquiry and the difference between research questions and observational questions.
This book makes clear to researchers what item-bias methods can (and cannot) do, how they work and how they should be interpreted. Advice is provided on the most useful methods for particular test situations. The authors explain the logic of each method - from item-response theory to nonparametric, categorical methods - in terms of how differential item functioning (DIF) is defined by the method and how well the method can be expected to work. A summary of findings on the behaviour of indices in empirical studies is included. The book concludes with a set of principles for deciding when DIF should be interpreted as evidence of bias.
By emphasizing how to think strategically about a research project, the author of this innovative book shows readers the important steps of a scientific study - from the formulation of the study to the write-up of results. Illustrative examples from the social, health and behavioural sciences are used throughout to illustrate 40 principles of good research practice.
Eugene J. Meehan's normatively driven approach for social inquiry is essential equipment for policy makers, critics, and administrators. Meehan appends illustrations and applications to education and housing, It is useful for methodology courses for graduate or advanced undergraduate students.
ISBN-13: 9781566430067
(Paperback)
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS Imprint: CHATHAM HOUSE PUBLISHERS INC.,U.S.
What is the current spatial form and structure of our urban environment, and how can we study the factors and forces that account for the specific structure of urban space, its social and political processes, population distribution and land use? Addressing these and other issues, the authors highlight specific research questions and the ways in which they can be approached by offering a framework for considering the various ways in which to do urban research. Covering such topics as how to choose a research design, secondary research methods for data collection and how to enhance research utilization, the authors demonstrate ways to pair research questions with specific levels of analysis, such as neighbourhood, city or national level.
When using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) in an experimental design, how can the researcher determine whether to treat a factor as fixed or random? This book provides the reader with the criteria to make the distinction between fixed and random levels among factors, an important decision that directly reflects the purpose of the research. In addition to exploring the varied roles random factors can play in social research, the authors provide a discussion of the statistical analyses required with random factors and give an overview of computer-assisted analysis of random factor designs using SAS and SPSSX.
