Introducing Two Inexpensive Social Work Research Books
Foundations of Research Methods for Social Workers:
A Critical Thinking Approach (2nd edition, 2026)
Richard M. Grinnell, Jr.
ISBN: 978-0981510019
Social Work Research Proposals:
A Workbook (2nd edition, 2021)
Richard M. Grinnell, Jr. & Yvonne A. Unrau
ISBN: 978-1734911909
Pair Bond Publications
601 126th St. NW
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
ph: 269-303-7100
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Foundations of Research Methods for Social Workers:
A Critical Thinking Approach
(2nd edition, 2026)
(802 pages)
Purchase this book here
This book is a must-read for social work students. It teaches them the basics of research methodology, but it also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking. Instead of just following the rules, it encourages students to question assumptions, ask thoughtful questions, evaluate evidence, and use research findings in a way that’s both ethical and effective.
The book uses the scientific method to explain research in a way that’s easy to understand. It helps students feel less intimidated and more confident in their ability to do research.
Research is a powerful tool that can help us make a positive impact on the world. It can help us ensure that our practices are ethical, informed, and socially responsible. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re feeling unsure about what to do next, this book is a great resource for learning how to do research in a way that’s both effective and meaningful.
Table of Contents
PART I: Contexts of Social Work Research
1 Toward Accountability
2 Research Questions
3 Toward Evidence-Based Practice
4 Literature Reviews
5 Research Ethics
6 Culturally Competent Research
PART II: Knowledge Development
7 The Scientific Method of Inquiry
8 The Quantitative Research Approach
9 The Qualitative Research Approach
10 The Mixed-Methods Research Approach
PART III: Measuring Variables
11 Measuring Variables
12 Measuring Instruments
PART IV: Sampling and Research Designs
13 Sampling
14 Single-Subject Designs
15 Group Designs
PART V: Collecting and Analyzing Data
16 Collecting Quantitative Data
17 Selecting a Data-Collection Method
18 Analyzing Quantitative Data
19 Analyzing Qualitative Data
PART VI: Research Proposals and Reports
20 Quantitative Proposals and Reports
21 Qualitative Proposals and Reports
Instructors:
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Social Work Research Proposals:
A Workbook
(2nd edition, 2021)
(272 pages)
Purchase here
This book is super affordable and really practical for social work students who are writing their first research proposals. It’s written in a simple way that’s easy to understand.
Basically, it breaks down the essential parts (with helpful tips) that you need to cover in each of the 12 sections of a basic research proposal.
Table of Contents
Preface for Instructors
Introduction for Students
PART I: Front Matter
Section 1: Title Page and Title
Section 3: Table of Contents
PART II: Identifying the Problem
Section 4: Introduction
Section 5: Literature Review
Section 6: Problem
Section 7: Research Question
PART III: Solving the Problem
Section 8: Method
Section 8a: Research Design
Section 8b: Sample
Section 8c: Instrumentation
Section 8d: Data Collection
Section 8e: Data Analysis
Section 8f: Ethical and Cultural Issues
PART IV: Evaluating the Proposed Solution
Section 9: Limitations
Section 10: Significance
PART V: Back Matter
Section 11: References
Section 12: Appendices
Appendix A: Copies of official letters of permission to conduct your research study
Appendix B: Cooperating agency description (if needed)
Appendix C: Timelines
Appendix D: Measuring instruments (an individual appendix for each instrument)
Appendix E: Copy of informed consent form (if needed)
Appendix F: Copy of informed assent form (if needed)
Appendix G: Copy of IRB approval from your university/college (if needed)
Appendix H: Verbatim instructions given to your research participants (if needed)
Appendix I: Interview protocols (if needed)
Appendix J: Data collection plan
Appendix K: Data analysis plan
Appendix L: Personnel (if needed)
Appendix M: Copies of résumés of key people
Appendix N: Dissemination plan
Appendix O: Budget
Instructors:
Click here to obtain: