Includes bibliographical references and index.

Part I: Introduction -- 1. Research as an important way of knowing -- 2. Essentials of research -- 3. Research ethics -- Part II: Thinking processes -- 4. Philosophical foundations -- 5. Framing the problem -- 6. Developing a knowledge base through literature and resources -- 7. Theory in research -- 8. Formulating research questions and queries -- 9. Language and thinking processes -- Part III: Design approaches -- 10. Experimental type designs -- 11. Naturalistic designs -- 12. Mixed methods designs -- Part IV: Action processes -- 13. Setting the boundaries of a study -- 14. Boundary setting in experimental-type design -- 15. Boundary setting in naturalistic designs -- 16. Collecting information -- 17. Collecting data through measurement in experimental-type design -- 18. Gathering information in naturalistic inquiry -- 19. Preparing and organizing data -- 20. Statistical analysis for experimental-type research -- 21. Analysis in naturalistic inquiry -- 22. Sharing research knowledge before the study -- 23. Sharing research knowledge during and after the study -- Part V: Improving practice through inquiry -- 24. Reciprocal role of research and practice -- 25. Stories from the field.