First steps in research brings together the insights of academics, theorists, researchers and practitioners. It offers perspectives and theory to facilitate the understanding and application of research theories, goals, methods and strategies. The book is designed to be accessible without oversimplifying the complexities of the field. It explores the historical and philosophical foundations of qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods research, offering guidance on their appropriate use. Additionally, it examines the methodological aspects of action research and exemplifies participatory reflection.

Contents include the following:

• Formulating research questions
• Conceptualizing and writing research proposals
• Conducting a preliminary literature review
• Ethical considerations
• Interpreting data
• Data generation/collection methods, including engaging participants and eliciting “thick” data
• Sampling methods
• Graphical representation of data
• Basic probability rules
• Basic statistical methods and tests
• Utilizing online and technical instruments
• Avant-garde mixed-methods frameworks