Researching Human Geography

Book excerpt: Researching Human Geography is an essential new text for any geography student about to embark on a research project. An understanding of how different theories of knowledge have influenced research methodologies is crucial in planning and designing effective research; this book makes this link clear and explores how various philosophical positions, from positivism to post-structuralism, have become associated with particular methodologies. The book gives an overview of a wide range of methods and data collection, both quantitative and qualitative, and explores their strengths and weaknesses for different kinds of research. 'Researching Human Geography' also looks at the various techniques available for the analysis of data, which is presented as an integral and ongoing part of the research process. Clearly written, with extensive use of examples from previous research to show 'methodology in action', this new text is an invaluable addition to both the theory and method of research in human geography.