Book DetailAuthor/Editor(s): Paul J. Lavrakas
Publication Date: September 12, 2008
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Size: 9.64 MB
Book DescriptionIn conjunction with top survey researchers around the world and with Nielsen Media Research serving as the corporate sponsor, the Encyclopedia of Survey Research Methods presents state-of-the-art information and methodological examples from the field of survey research. Although there are other "how-to" guides and references texts on survey research, none is as comprehensive as this Encyclopedia, and none presents the material in such a focused and approachable manner. With more than 600 entries, this resource uses a Total Survey Error perspective that considers all aspects of possible survey error from a cost-benefit standpoint.
Thousands of articles and books have been written in the field of survey research methodology. Among them are three volumes by G. R. Walden: Polling and Survey Research Methods (CH, Apr'97, 34-4229), Public Opinion Polls and Survey Research (CH, Sep'90, 28-0054), and Survey Research Methodology, 1990-1999 (CH, May'03, 40-4991). But only Lavrakas and his team of over 320 contributors have provided encyclopedic coverage with this publication of over 640 entries. Many well-known and heavily published authors in survey research participated. Lavrakas has had a distinguished career in both the academic and commercial realm (notably with The Nielsen Company, the corporate sponsor for this work). The volumes are accessible to a wide range of users, starting with the uninitiated and moving through the continuum to advanced researchers. This set is well designed, with a list of entries and a "Reader's Guide" that divides the subject into nine main categories that are then subdivided. The front matter includes a roster, and a lengthy index appears at the end of volume 2. Unfortunately, no contributor index is included to allow readers to determine who wrote which section; however, the entries are all signed within the encyclopedia. The well-written entries cover the body of research thoroughly. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower-level undergraduates and above; general readers.
--G. R. Walden CHOICE magazine 20090218