About This Title

An Introduction to Scientific Research Methods in Geography applies the research, philosophy and methods of the social and natural sciences to topics in geography, while recognizing the pluralism of geography, avoiding simplistic conceptions of scientific geography, such as narrowly “positivistic,” “objective,” or “quantitative.” In this way, the text attempts to promote rigor and progressiveness in geography, helping to build bridges among the various subfields of geography and the other social and natural sciences, while avoiding some of the limiting meta-theoretical conflicts that have characterized geography in recent decades.

Key Features

• Provides a broad and integrative introduction to the conduct and interpretation of scientific research in geography
• Covers both conceptual and technical aspects, and is applicable to all topical areas in geographic research, including human and physical geography, and geographic information science
• Discusses all parts of the research process, including:
• Scientific philosophy
• Basic research concepts
• Generating research ideas
• Communicating research and using library resources
• Sampling and research design
• Quantitative and qualitative data collection
• Data analysis
• Display and interpretation
• Reliability and validity
• Using geographic information techniques in research
• Ethical conduct in research

Intended Audience: The text is intended for undergraduate and graduate courses on Research Methods in Geography and related disciplines, such as Environmental Studies. In addition, it will be valuable as a reference work or primer for students, faculty, and other professionals who want a concise and integrated introduction to research methods in geography.