ABSTRACT
The intent of Chapter 1 is to introduce some fundamental aspects of research methodology, especially those involving the use of statistics. In this chapter aspects of how knowledge is gained, types of research activities, the scientific method, research validity, and experimental designs are discussed. These concepts are foundational to conducting research studies and selecting statistical procedures to evaluate their results. Choosing the appropriate statistical procedure is essential to conducting valid research, and to assist in this task Appendix B lists the statistical procedures presented in the remainder of this textbook. With this background knowledge, Chapters 2– 14 present statistical concepts and procedures involved in research. Students who have completed a research methods course may use this chapter as a review or omit it.
