ABSTRACT

This unique textbook explores practice-based research (PBR), using numerous practice examples to actively encourage and engage students and practitioners to embrace research as a meaningful support for their practice. Whilst evidence-based practice gives practitioners access to information about "universal" best practices, it does not prioritize practitioner-generated knowledge or promote new research-based interventions relevant to their own practice circumstances as PBR does.

This book discusses the evolution of PBR as a distinct social work research approach, describes its principles and methods and presents a range of exemplars illustrating the application of PBR within different practice methods in different practice settings. The chapters cover:

  • Identifying the research question in a PBR model
  • Designing a study and identifying a methodology
  • Sampling
  • Literature reviews
  • Gathering data
  • Ethics
  • Analyzing data and interpreting results
  • Putting research into practice

Viewing the practitioner as central to the research process, and research as a necessary component of practice, this invaluable book emphasizes the seamless integration of practice and research. It is about research in social work practice rather than research on social work practice. Each chapter includes an overview, an introduction, and a key concepts summary. Practice-Based Research in Social Work is a very accessible text suitable for social work students, particularly MSW students, and practitioners.

section |20 pages

Introduction to PBR in Social Work Practice

chapter |8 pages

Introduction

chapter |10 pages

Evolution and Definition of PBR

section |125 pages

Engaging in the PBR Process

chapter |11 pages

PBR Study Purposes

chapter |15 pages

PBR Research Designs

chapter |13 pages

Qualitative Data Gathering

chapter |17 pages

Quantitative Data Gathering

chapter |17 pages

PBR Sampling

section |53 pages

Analyzing and Interpreting Results in PBR

chapter |11 pages

Analyzing Qualitative Data in PBR

chapter |23 pages

Analyzing Quantitative Data in PBR