Qualitative Research Practice: A Guide for Social Science Students and Researchers

The most helpful and practical book I've read yet on how to do qualitative research (for my dissertation, natch). Essays include a historical essay on the foundations of qualitative research and a theoretical overview of the applications of qualitative methods to social research, outlining and defending the use of qualitative research in the practical policy sphere. Where the rubber really hits the road is the step-by-step overview and descriptions of actually performing qualitative research, from initial research design and sampling through the interview process and data analysis afterward. Qualitative research is notoriously vague on how-tos; for many, that's part of the attraction. Those who need an introduction, or a more methodical approach to being non-methodical, will find this book immensely stimulating and productive.