Using Everyday Numbers Effectively in Research

Professor Stephen Gorard is in the Department of Educational Studies at the University of York. He is the author of over 350 academic publications, including two for Continuum.

• Preface; 1. Introducing everyday numbers; 2. Judgement with everyday numbers; 3. Defending the use of everyday numbers; References; Index.

In this short book, Gorard (Univ. of York) argues against using traditional statistical methods in favor of "everyday numerical techniques" in social science research. His underlying theme is threefold: "using veryday numbers in research is easy," they "can lead to important research discoveries," and they inject "a necessary dose of critical realism into claims." Through numerous examples, Gorard attempts to demonstrate that using everyday number techniques is better and clearer in providing the analysis of research. His examples are based on actual data and studies in the educational system in Wales and England. Various areas of basic tatistical research techniques are argued against. Gorard discusses why the mean deviation is a better tool than the standard deviation. Two other areas of statistics that are disputed are the different "levels" of measurement and the use of significance tests. Overall, the book is a short exposition on why not to use traditional statistical methods in research while attempting to demonstrate other options. This book will provide social science researchers with thought-provoking ideas and possibly new ways of thinking about using numbers in their research. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty.