Doing Science: Design, Analysis, and Communication of Scientific Research

by Ivan Valiela

Overview

Doing Science, second edition, offers a rare compendium of practical advice based on how working scientists pursue their craft. It covers each stage of research, from formulating questions and gathering data to developing experiments and analyzing results and finally to the many ways for presenting results. Drawing on his extensive experience both as a researcher and a research mentor, Ivan Valiela has written a lively and concise survey of everything a beginning scientist needs to know to succeed in the field. He includes chapters on scientific data, statistical methods, and experimental designs, and much of the book is devoted to presenting final results.

Now in its second edition, Doing Science has been completely updated and expanded to include a brand-new chapter on doing science in society, as well as increased coverage of the ethics of avoiding conflict of interest.

Anyone beginning a scientific career, or who advises students in research will find Doing Science, second edition, an invaluable source of advice.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780195385731
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	09/04/2009
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	352
Product dimensions:	6.90(w) x 9.90(h) x 0.70(d)
Lexile:	1310L (what's this?)

About the Author

Ivan Valiela is Senior Resident Scientist of the Ecosystems Center at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts.

Table of Contents

1. Obtaining Scientific Information2. Elements of Scientific Data and Tests of Questions3. Statistical Analysis4. Principles of Research Design5. Communication of Scientific Information: Writing6. The Scientific Paper7. Other Means of Scientific Communication

Editorial Reviews

"This volume is not a mere manual, but a readable narrative filled with facts and anecdotes about what makes research snap versus fizzle. Much of the advice remains timely and relevant, such as how a scientific community must consider cheats and frauds, as well as honest mistakes. Although directed largely at beginning researchers, some of the advice and information here will provoke thought for even seasoned researchers. Scientists at all levels of practice can benefit from Valiela's experience and deeply thoughtful approach in considering the peaks and pitfalls encountered in the conduct of science." — The Quarterly Review of Biology

"This new edition of Doing Science would be a perfect resource for courses that some graduate departments offer beginning researchers on how to initiate, conduct, and report on a research project. It would be a valuable addition to the libraries of both seasoned and novice researchers."—Choice

"An essential reference for both instructors and students that fills an important gap in the undergraduate curriculum. The final section of this book illustrates its importance, as the author examines current perceptions of science. If more scientists took the time to consider how to communicate more clearly, design more clear-cut studies, and explain their results in a more convincing way, the gap between scientific consensus and public understanding might not be so large." —Teacher Education Materials (TE-MAT) Project

From the Publisher

Many books cover research design and data analysis, and some discuss communicating findings, but Valiela (Boston U. Marine Program) demonstrates the importance of gathering these topics between two covers. The first half of the book covers the principles of empirical and deductive science, elements of scientific data and tests of questions, statistical analyses, and principles of research design; the second presents invaluable information about writing, speaking, and graphically interpreting scientific findings. The last chapter discusses current perceptions about science, postmodern critiques, and why it is in scientists' interest to educate the public about science and its limitations. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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