Learn how to be a rigorous social researcher with this incisive and engaging book for students studying A level Sociology or starting sociology at university. Examine each major sociological method where research into crime, family life and education is explored in depth, and illustrated using classic and contemporary sociological studies. Easy to weave into current courses to make the study of Sociology more relevant, cutting edge and inclusive Explore the array of research methods sociologists use to understand how society shapes personal troubles, truths and triumphs. Discover how sociological research studies (classic and contemporary) showcase the application of these methods, and learn about the advantages and disadvantages of the different methods. Packed with case studies and opportunities to reflect and challenge readers, How to be a Social Researcher will appeal to anyone with an interest in sociology as well as supporting those studying it at school, college, or university. The perfect companion to How to be a Sociologist and other Sociology A level texts, this book supports and celebrates the enduring value and importance of social research methods. Contents Chapter 1: What is social research? Chapter 2: How to be a social researcher Chapter 3: Doing your own social research Chapter 4: Official statistics Chapter 5: Social surveys Chapter 6: Interviews Chapter 7: Observations Chapter 8: Documentary methods Chapter 9: Experiments Chapter 10: Mixed methods: society as a kaleidoscope Chapter 11: Shaking up methods: new sociological mixologies Chapter 12: A final turn of the kaleidoscope: the enduring importance of social research