Donna M. Mertens – författare

"In an era when government policy emphasizes 'scientifically based research' (No Child Left Behind), this book provides an important resource in understanding what this means."Diane Browder, Snyder Distinguished Professor of Special EducationUniversity of North Carolina, Charlotte

"This is a superb book. I learned by reading it, and I found myself rethinking some of my own thinking about research on individuals with disabilities."James E. Ysseldyke, ProfessorUniversity of Minnesota

Learn how research can lead to improved skills and contribute to successful lives.

When face-to-face with the challenge of providing special needs children with a quality education, teachers and other educators are often met with the dilemma of inadequate research on the topic, or they are uninformed that a framework for critically analyzing and conducting special education research exists. Research-based practice is a powerful tool for success, as it can inform educators and others about educational strategies that work.

Research and Evaluation Methods in Special Education is intended to enable educators to design, conduct, and report research and evaluation in a way that transforms special education by addressing the needs of persons with disabilities as heterogeneous, cultural groups. This text provides practical guidance for:

Planning research and evaluation Addressing the implications of legislation and program evaluation Using empirically based data for decision-making in a variety of settings Assessing additional research needs in areas such as standards-based reforms, personnel development, family involvement, and new and developing topics in special education Using quantitative research methods, including casual comparative, correlational, single case, and survey research Using qualitative methods, including identification and selection of research participants, information collection, and more

This excellent resource provides an approach to research and evaluation that helps educators better understand and address the needs of students with various disabilities, including blindness, mental retardation, deafness, learning disabilities, and more.

"In an era when government policy emphasizes 'scientifically based research' (No Child Left Behind), this book provides an important resource in understanding what this means."Diane Browder, Snyder Distinguished Professor of Special EducationUniversity of North Carolina, Charlotte

"This is a superb book. I learned by reading it, and I found myself rethinking some of my own thinking about research on individuals with disabilities."James E. Ysseldyke, ProfessorUniversity of Minnesota

Learn how research can lead to improved skills and contribute to successful lives.

When face-to-face with the challenge of providing special needs children with a quality education, teachers and other educators are often met with the dilemma of inadequate research on the topic, or they are uninformed that a framework for critically analyzing and conducting special education research exists. Research-based practice is a powerful tool for success, as it can inform educators and others about educational strategies that work.

Research and Evaluation Methods in Special Education is intended to enable educators to design, conduct, and report research and evaluation in a way that transforms special education by addressing the needs of persons with disabilities as heterogeneous, cultural groups. This text provides practical guidance for:

Planning research and evaluation Addressing the implications of legislation and program evaluation Using empirically based data for decision-making in a variety of settings Assessing additional research needs in areas such as standards-based reforms, personnel development, family involvement, and new and developing topics in special education Using quantitative research methods, including casual comparative, correlational, single case, and survey research Using qualitative methods, including identification and selection of research participants, information collection, and more

This excellent resource provides an approach to research and evaluation that helps educators better understand and address the needs of students with various disabilities, including blindness, mental retardation, deafness, learning disabilities, and more.

In 1976, the first session on the teaching of evaluation was held at an annual meeting of evaluators. A few hardy souls gathered to exchange ideas on improving the teaching of evaluation. At subsequent annual meetings, these informal sessions attracted more and more participants, eager to talk about common teaching interests and to exchange reading lists, syllabuses, assignments, and paper topics. The ses­ sions were irreverent, innovative, lively, and unpredictable. Eventually the group for­ malized itself with the American Evaluation Association as the Topical Interest Group in the Teaching of Evaluation (TIG: TOE). As word of TIG: TOE's activities spread, instructors from all over the country clamored for assistance and advice. It became apparent that a handbook was need­ ed, a practical interdisciplinary guide to the teaching of evaluation. Donna M. Mertens, a long-standing member of TIG: TOE and an accomplished teacher of evaluation, volunteered to edit the book, and her skills, sensitivity, and experience in the craft of teaching are apparent throughout.

The format of each chapter is clear and logical. . . . The style is aimed at students and tries to engage them in thinking further about points raised in each chapter. The authors avoid over-use of technical terms. . . . Material is well-presented with many headings and subheadings. . . . This book is a useful source for cross referencing research reports in special education with design or techniques used. In addition, the checklists for critiques are potentially valuable as study aids for undergraduates and students commencing post-graduate work. --Ann Lewis in British Journal of Developmental Psychology "The book represents a useful short introductory guide to approaches to research. . . . the authors go systematically. . . through the stages of the research process from literature review to data analysis and reporting. . . . On completion of the book, the reader would have a very good idea of the span of options open to a researcher and would have gained considerable breadth. . . of knowledge not only about methodology, but also about the corpus of special education research. . . . Mertens and McLaughlin have. . . produced a sound introductory text which makes short cuts for the reader who is both new to research methodology and working within special education." --Educational Research "The breadth of reference is a strength of the text. . . . This short book is a convenient and well-organized addition to [the Sage series]." --Tony Cline in Division of Educational & Child Psychology Newsletter "Donna M. Mertens and John McLaughlin have created a basic work that beautifully bridges the fields of research and special education. The document provides a step-by-step approach with clear, rich examples that should allow the user to plan and conduct a research study that meets the standards of both fields. My initial fears were that the authors would get caught up in the jargon of either research or special education and present a confusing array of concepts that would benefit neither researchers nor special educators. Those fears were soon alleviated when they indicated that a 'researcher may be doing footwork that more resembles a "cha cha" than a straightforward stroll.' The document is formatted in a manner that is easy to use with a map to each chapter at the beginning and study questions at the end. Mertens and McLaughlin have filled a unique gap in the research of special education issues." --Kenneth R. Olsen, Technical Assistance Specialist, University of Kentucky "This is a clear, sensitive, and user-friendly introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methods in special education. A much-needed primer and a must read for researchers working with individuals with disabilities." --David Fetterman, Director of Research and Evaluation,

Identify, evaluate, and practice good research using Research and Evaluation in Education and Psychology: Integrating Diversity With Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Methods by renowned scholar Donna M. Mertens. This introductory research methods text incorporates the viewpoints of various research paradigms into its descriptions of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods as well as program evaluation. The work covers five major paradigms: post-positivist, constructivist, transformative, pragmatic, and Indigenous. Special emphasis on conducting research with culturally complex communities, based on the perspectives of feminists, ethnic/racial minorities, and people with disabilities is a hallmark of this text. In each chapter, the author carefully explains each step of the research process, from the literature review to analysis and reporting. Additionally, each chapter includes a published sample study and abstract to illustrate the concepts discussed in that chapter. The Sixth Edition includes more on community engagement, recent advances in mixed methods, new applications of theoretical frameworks, and the latest research examples. Citations and references have all been updated to reflect the seventh edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association. Included with this title: LMS Cartridge: Import this title’s instructor resources into your school’s learning management system (LMS) and save time. Don’t use an LMS? You can still access all of the same online resources for this title via the password-protected Instructor Resource Site.

In this book, Mertens provides a brief history of the emergence of mixed methods research and numerous examples to illustrate its application in different disciplines and geographic areas. Mixed methods approaches offer researchers an exciting opportunity to explore new combinations of methods in diverse contexts: the design possibilities are endless and can be incorporated in many different approaches. The book presents case studies to illustrate different philosophical lenses for mixed methods design, including post-positivism, constructivism, pragmatism, transformative, Indigenous, and dialectical pluralism. The book features interviews with researchers about their experiences and practices. They discuss a variety of topics including innovative research design, use of technology and big data, preparation of mixed methods researchers, and how this research can contribute to a more just and equitable future.

In this book, Mertens provides a brief history of the emergence of mixed methods research and numerous examples to illustrate its application in different disciplines and geographic areas. Mixed methods approaches offer researchers an exciting opportunity to explore new combinations of methods in diverse contexts: the design possibilities are endless and can be incorporated in many different approaches. The book presents case studies to illustrate different philosophical lenses for mixed methods design, including post-positivism, constructivism, pragmatism, transformative, Indigenous, and dialectical pluralism. The book features interviews with researchers about their experiences and practices. They discuss a variety of topics including innovative research design, use of technology and big data, preparation of mixed methods researchers, and how this research can contribute to a more just and equitable future.

The Handbook of Social Research Ethics is the first comprehensive volume of its kind to offer a deeper understanding of the history, theory, philosophy, and implementation of applied social research ethics. Editors Donna M. Mertens and Pauline Ginsberg bring together eminent, international scholars across the social and behavioral sciences and education to address the ethical issues that arise in the theory and practice of research within the technologically advancing and culturally complex world in which we live. In addition, this volume examines the ethical dilemmas that arise in the relationship between research practice and social justice issues. Key Features Situates the ethical concerns in the practice of social science research in historical and epistemological contexts Explores the philosophical roots of ethics from the perspectives of Kant, J.S. Mill, Hegel, and others Provides an overview and comparison of ethical regulations across disciplines, governments, and additional contexts such as IRBs, program evaluation, and more Examines specific ethical issues that arise in traditional methods and methodologies Addresses ethical concerns within a variety of diverse, cultural contexts Intended Audience This reference is an invaluable resource for university faculty, researchers, ethicists, IRB members, social science practitioners, graduate students, and program evaluators throughout the social and behavioral sciences.

The leading text that covers both the theory and practice of evaluation in one engaging volume has now been revised and updated with additional evaluation approaches (such as mixed methods and principles-focused evaluation) and new methods (such as technologically based strategies). The book features examples of small- and large-scale evaluations from a range of fields, many with reflective commentary from the evaluators; helpful checklists; and carefully crafted learning activities. Major theoretical paradigms in evaluation--and the ways they inform methodological choices--are explained. Readers learn effective strategies for clarifying their own theoretical assumptions; working with stakeholders; developing questions; using quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods designs; selecting data collection and sampling strategies; analyzing data; and communicating and utilizing findings. The new companion website provides extensive recommended online resources and tools, organized by chapter. New to This Edition*Additional evaluation approaches: collaborative evaluation, principles-focused evaluation, and desk reviews.*Coverage of new data collection technologies and methods of qualitative coding.*Expanded discussions of logic models, cost–benefit analysis, and mixed methods designs.*Many new and updated sample studies.Pedagogical Features*Reflection questions that prepare students to read each chapter.*"Extending Your Thinking" questions and practical activities.*Boxes delving into key concepts and example studies.*End-of-book Glossary, and highlighted key terms throughout.*Companion website with links to helpful resources on all aspects of evaluation.

Covering both the theory and practice of evaluation in one engaging volume, this leading text is now in a revised third edition. It features additional evaluation approaches, such as the Indigenous paradigm; new examples, ranging from small to large and multi-site evaluations; and more. Instructors praise the diverse evaluations, many with reflective commentary from evaluators, and rich pedagogical features. The text describes the major theoretical paradigms in evaluation and the ways they inform methodological choices. Readers learn effective strategies for clarifying their own theoretical assumptions; working with stakeholders; developing questions; using quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods designs; choosing data collection and sampling strategies; analyzing data; and communicating and utilizing findings. The book includes guidance for planning an evaluation of a specific project or program. Extensive recommended online resources and tools are provided at the companion website.New to This EditionRestructured section on philosophical frameworks, with a new chapter on the Indigenous paradigm and expanded coverage of disability, feminist, and LGBTQ+ theories. Additional sample studies, including multi-site and systems- and complexity-informed evaluations. Expanded coverage of logic models, cost–benefit evaluations, and mixed methods designs. New and updated coverage of data collection technologies, qualitative coding methods, Sustainable Development Goals, and uses and pitfalls of artificial intelligence. Pedagogical FeaturesReflection questions that prepare students to read each chapter. "Extending Your Thinking" questions and learning activities. New within-chapter maps to aid in navigating chapter sections. Boxes offering sample evaluations and closer looks at key concepts. Helpful checklists and tables, bolded key terms, and an end-of-book Glossary. Companion website with links to recommended online resources and tools.

Covering both the theory and practice of evaluation in one engaging volume, this leading text is now in a revised third edition. It features additional evaluation approaches, such as the Indigenous paradigm; new examples, ranging from small to large and multi-site evaluations; and more. Instructors praise the diverse evaluations, many with reflective commentary from evaluators, and rich pedagogical features. The text describes the major theoretical paradigms in evaluation and the ways they inform methodological choices. Readers learn effective strategies for clarifying their own theoretical assumptions; working with stakeholders; developing questions; using quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods designs; choosing data collection and sampling strategies; analyzing data; and communicating and utilizing findings. The book includes guidance for planning an evaluation of a specific project or program. Extensive recommended online resources and tools are provided at the companion website.New to This EditionRestructured section on philosophical frameworks, with a new chapter on the Indigenous paradigm and expanded coverage of disability, feminist, and LGBTQ+ theories. Additional sample studies, including multi-site and systems- and complexity-informed evaluations. Expanded coverage of logic models, cost–benefit evaluations, and mixed methods designs. New and updated coverage of data collection technologies, qualitative coding methods, Sustainable Development Goals, and uses and pitfalls of artificial intelligence. Pedagogical FeaturesReflection questions that prepare students to read each chapter. "Extending Your Thinking" questions and learning activities. New within-chapter maps to aid in navigating chapter sections. Boxes offering sample evaluations and closer looks at key concepts. Helpful checklists and tables, bolded key terms, and an end-of-book Glossary. Companion website with links to recommended online resources and tools.

From distinguished scholar Donna M. Mertens, this book provides a framework for making methodological decisions and conducting research and evaluations that promote social justice. The transformative paradigm has emerged from—and guides—a broad range of social and behavioral science research projects with communities that have been pushed to the margins, such as ethnic, racial, and sexual minority group members and children and adults with disabilities. Mertens shows how to formulate research questions based on community needs, develop researcher–community partnerships grounded in trust and respect, and skillfully apply quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods data collection strategies. Practical aspects of analyzing and reporting results are addressed, and numerous sample studies are presented. Student- and Instructors-Friendly Features Include:*Commentary on the sample studies that explains what makes them transformative.*Explanations of key concepts related to oppression, social justice, and the role of research and evaluation.*Questions for Thought to stimulate critical self-reflection and discussion.*Advance chapter organizers and chapter summaries.

A new generation of indigenous researchers is taking its place in the world of social research in increasing numbers. These scholars provide new insights into communities under the research gaze and offer new ways of knowing to traditional scholarly models. They also move the research community toward more sensitive and collaborative practices. But it comes at a cost. Many in this generation have met with resistance or indifference in their journeys through the academic system and in the halls of power. They also often face ethical quandaries or even strong opposition from their own communities. The life stories in this book present the journeys of over 30 indigenous researchers from six continents and many different disciplines. They show, in their own words, the challenges, paradoxes, and oppression they have faced, their strategies for overcoming them, and how their work has produced more meaningful research and a more just society.

A new generation of indigenous researchers is taking its place in the world of social research in increasing numbers. These scholars provide new insights into communities under the research gaze and offer new ways of knowing to traditional scholarly models. They also move the research community toward more sensitive and collaborative practices. But it comes at a cost. Many in this generation have met with resistance or indifference in their journeys through the academic system and in the halls of power. They also often face ethical quandaries or even strong opposition from their own communities. The life stories in this book present the journeys of over 30 indigenous researchers from six continents and many different disciplines. They show, in their own words, the challenges, paradoxes, and oppression they have faced, their strategies for overcoming them, and how their work has produced more meaningful research and a more just society.

In 1976, the first session on the teaching of evaluation was held at an annual meeting of evaluators. A few hardy souls gathered to exchange ideas on improving the teaching of evaluation. At subsequent annual meetings, these informal sessions attracted more and more participants, eager to talk about common teaching interests and to exchange reading lists, syllabuses, assignments, and paper topics. The ses­ sions were irreverent, innovative, lively, and unpredictable. Eventually the group for­ malized itself with the American Evaluation Association as the Topical Interest Group in the Teaching of Evaluation (TIG: TOE). As word of TIG: TOE's activities spread, instructors from all over the country clamored for assistance and advice. It became apparent that a handbook was need­ ed, a practical interdisciplinary guide to the teaching of evaluation. Donna M. Mertens, a long-standing member of TIG: TOE and an accomplished teacher of evaluation, volunteered to edit the book, and her skills, sensitivity, and experience in the craft of teaching are apparent throughout.

The leading text that covers both the theory and practice of evaluation in one engaging volume has now been revised and updated with additional evaluation approaches (such as mixed methods and principles-focused evaluation) and new methods (such as technologically based strategies). The book features examples of small- and large-scale evaluations from a range of fields, many with reflective commentary from the evaluators; helpful checklists; and carefully crafted learning activities. Major theoretical paradigms in evaluation--and the ways they inform methodological choices--are explained. Readers learn effective strategies for clarifying their own theoretical assumptions; working with stakeholders; developing questions; using quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods designs; selecting data collection and sampling strategies; analyzing data; and communicating and utilizing findings. The new companion website provides extensive recommended online resources and tools, organized by chapter. New to This Edition*Additional evaluation approaches: collaborative evaluation, principles-focused evaluation, and desk reviews.*Coverage of new data collection technologies and methods of qualitative coding.*Expanded discussions of logic models, cost–benefit analysis, and mixed methods designs.*Many new and updated sample studies.Pedagogical Features*Reflection questions that prepare students to read each chapter.*"Extending Your Thinking" questions and practical activities.*Boxes delving into key concepts and example studies.*End-of-book Glossary, and highlighted key terms throughout.*Companion website with links to helpful resources on all aspects of evaluation.