Synopsis
In the last ten years there has been significant expansion of postgraduate education in the social sciences. A proliferation of new taught MA courses and substantial growth in the number of new research students have led to a renewed interest in the research process and the teaching of research methods. A number of existing methodology texts present a sanitized and idealized image of research which is both misleading and remains silent on many of the crucial issues facing postgraduates - issues to do with the research process rather than the development of competence in specific techniques.
This edited volume seeks to remedy some of these deficiencies and to contribute to the emerging literature on the analysis of postgraduate education and training in the social sciences. It aims to do this by breaking new ground in the field of Politics and International Studies (PALS). It is the first book oriented specifically to postgraduates in the discipline focusing on themes, issues and methods in research training. The selection of new issues (progress through the years, teaching assistants, publications, jobs) plus a focus on approaches which conventionally receive little attention (metatheory, comparative analysis, archives, information technology) increases luther the distinctiveness and appeal of the book, making it an invaluable source and guide book for post graduate students.
Booknews
Provides the full-time student, the teaching assistant, the doctorate student, and the overseas student with guidance through the academic and professional hurdles of postgraduate studies. The first ten essays address the social organization of the research process. Topics include a comparison of MA and PhD research processes; the student-supervisor relationship; and juggling a full-time academic post and a PhD. The second section, comprising seven contributions, addresses methods of procedures in qualitative research including the practice of political theory; an introduction to interviewing; and using unusual sources. Distributed by Books International. Paper edition (unseen), $27.50. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.