Quantitative Longitudinal Data Analysis: Research Methods

Description

First published Open Access under a Creative Commons license as What is Quantitative Longitudinal Data Analysis?, this title is now also available as part of the Bloomsbury Research Methods series. Across the social sciences, there is widespread agreement that quantitative longitudinal research designs offer analysts powerful scientific data resources. But, to date, many texts on analysing longitudinal social analysis surveys have been written from a statistical, rather than a social science data analysis perspective and they lack adequate coverage of common practical challenges associated with social science data analyses. This book provides a practical and up-to-date introduction to influential approaches to quantitative longitudinal data analysis in the social sciences. The book introduces definitions and terms, explains the relative attractions of such a longitudinal design, and offers an introduction to the main techniques of analysis, explaining their requirements, statistical properties and their substantive contribution.

Vernon Gayle is Professor of Sociology and Social Statistics at the University of Edinburgh, UK. Paul Lambert is Professor of Sociology at the University of Stirling, UK.

An impressive text for anyone wishing to understand the value of longitudinal data for social science research questions and the analytical techniques and practical approaches required to make effective use of such data. The clear enthusiasm and expertise of the authors for the subject shines through the text, helping the reader navigate the complexities of different kinds of longitudinal data, possible research questions and techniques with ease. It is really clearly written in a very engaging manner with examples and code making it suitable for students and researchers new to longitudinal research as well more experienced analysts. * Michaela Benzeval, Professor of Longitudinal Research, University of Essex, UK, and Director of Understanding Society: The UK Household Longitudinal Study, UK * Just as the authors intended, reading this book whetted my appetite for the rich portfolio of quantitative longitudinal data available in the UK ... Strong referencing and bibliography enable the reader to look further into influential approaches. * Research Matters *