Research Methods in Physical Activity

Aimed at students and researchers in sport and exercise science, human movement and sport studies, as well as related fields such as physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Provides an overview of the research process including developing the problem, using the literature, preparing a research plan and understanding ethical issues in research and writing. Offers an introduction to statistical and measurement issues in research. Presents various approaches to research including historical, philosophical, descriptive, epidemiological, experimental and qualitative methods. Contains comprehensive guidance for completing the research process, including writing up results, organising the research paper, developing figures and tables, and presenting research in written and oral forms.

Table of Contents:
Part I: Overview of the Research Process; Chapter 1. Introduction to Research in Physical Activity; Chapter 2. Developing the Problem and Using the Literature; Chapter 3. Presenting the Problem; Chapter 4. Formulating the Method; Chapter 5. Ethical Issues in Research and Scholarship; Part II: Statistical and Measurement Concepts in Research; Chapter 6. Becoming Acquainted With Statistical Concepts; Chapter 7. Statistical Issues in Research Planning and Evaluation; Chapter 8. Relationships Among Variables; Chapter 9. Differences Among Groups; Chapter 10. Nonparametric Techniques; Chapter 11. Measuring Research Variables; Part III: Types of Research; Chapter 12. Historical Research in Physical Activity; Chapter 13. Philosophic Research in Physical Activity; Chapter 14. Research Synthesis (Meta-Analysis); Chapter 15. The Survey; Chapter 16. Other Descriptive Research Methods; Chapter 17. Physical Activity Epidemiology Research; Chapter 18. Experimental and Quasi-Experimental Research; Chapter 19. Qualitative Research; Part IV: Writing the Research Report; Chapter 20. Completing the Research Process; Chapter 21. Ways of Reporting Research

About the Author :
Jerry R. Thomas, EdD, is professor and chair of the department of health and human performance at Iowa State University. Besides writing the previous editions of this book, Thomas has authored more than 200 publications, 87 of which are data-based refereed publications, with numerous contributions in research methods. Awarded the C.H. McCloy Lecturer in 1999, based on his career research production, Thomas has served as editor in chief for Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport and as a reviewer for most major research journals in kinesiology and numerous journals in psychology. He has also served as president of the American Academy of Kinesiology and Physical Education, of the AAHPERD Research Consortium, and of the North American Society for Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity. He was named an AAHPERD Alliance Scholar in 1990 and NASPSPA Distinguished Scholar in 2003, based on lifetime achievement in research. Jack K. Nelson, EdD, is professor emeritus in the department of kinesiology at Louisiana State University. Nelson conducted and published research and taught research methods for 35 years. He has advised more than 50 doctoral dissertations and more than 50 masters' theses focused on the research process. In addition, he has more than 80 publications and has served as editor of research publications. A fellow in the Research Consortium, he has been a member of AAHPERD, the American Educational Research Association, and the American College of Sports Medicine. He has also served as president of the Association for Research, Administration, Professional Councils and Societies (now AAALF) and as vice president of AAHPERD. Stephen Silverman, EdD, has taught and written about research methods for over 20 years. He is a professor of education at Teachers College, Columbia University, and he has conducted research on teaching in physical education focusing on how children learn motor skill and develop attitudes. He has published more than 50 research articles in addition to many books and book chapters. Silverman is a fellow of both the American Academy of Kinesiology and Physical Education and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) Research Consortium. A former coeditor of the Journal of Teaching in Physical Education and current editor in chief of the Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, Silverman was the American Educational Research Association Physical Education Scholar Lecturer and a Research Consortium Scholar Lecturer and Weiss Lecturer for AAHPERD.

Review :
"Renowned scientists, researchers, and writers Thomas and Nelson have authored a valuable resource for beginning and advanced graduate students and professionals. Research Methods in Physical Activity contains the essential information written in an easily comprehended manner that readers will appreciate. Avoiding an anxiety-laden tone often found in books about research methodologies, the authors instead put readers at ease, then supply them with the requisite tools for reading, conducting, and utilizing research. Research Methods in Physical Activity, unique for its stylistic and inviting presentation, is a book students will both enjoy and understand. Buy two copies: one for professional use and the other to give anyone who has appreciation for scientific methodologies generously laced with intelligent humor. It is rare to find textbook authors who write both competently and with humor as Thomas and Nelson have done!" Darrell Crase, PhD Professor, The University of Memphis (review of the third edition)