Analyzing Single System Design Data

by William Nugent

Overview

Single system, or single case, design studies are a convenient method for evaluating practice, allowing professionals to track clients' response to treatment and change over time. They also allow researchers to gather data where it might be difficult to conduct a study involving treatment and control groups; in a school setting, or a community mental health agency, for example, random assignment may be impossible, whereas individual student or client progress across time can be more easily monitored. This pocket guide reviews a wide range of techniques for analyzing single system design data, including visual analysis methods, graphical methods, and statistical methods. From basic visual observation to complex ARIMA statistical models for use with interrupted time series designs, numerous data analysis methods are described and illustrated in this unique and handy book. The author frankly describes limitations and strengths of the data analysis methods so that readers can select an appropriate method and use the results responsibly in order to improve practice and client well-being. This accessible yet in-depth introduction will serve as a highly practical resource for doctoral students and researchers alike.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780190451479
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	12/11/2009
Series:	Pocket Guide to Social Work Research Methods
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	6 MB

About the Author

William R. Nugent is Associate Professor of Social Work, University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1. An overview of single case design methodology 2. Regression-discontinuity and ARIMA models 3. Graphical and statistical methods 4. The analysis of data from integrated single case and group designs 5. Recommendations Glossary References Index

Editorial Reviews

Reviewer: Diane M Tomasic, EdD, RN (Slippery Rock University )
Description: This pocket guide describes the process of data analysis for single case designs, with a focus on the use of visual analysis methods.
Purpose: The purpose is to review the techniques for single case design analysis methods, presenting both their strengths and limitations. This type of analysis is good for tracking patient responses over time when experimental designs would be difficult to conduct.
Audience: The book is intended primarily for doctoral students and researchers who have a basic knowledge of research methods and statistical methods. Although some chapters are suitable for master's level students, the author stresses the book is not intended as a primary text for this level.
Features: An overview of single case design method begins the book. Chapter 2 covers regression-discontinuity statistical model and graphical and statistical methods are the focus of chapter 3. Chapter 4 covers integrating single case design and group comparison methods, and requires knowledge of multiple regression analysis. The final chapter deals with recommendations for this type of analysis and areas for future research.
Assessment: This pocket guide should be a useful resource for doctoral students and researchers as a good introduction to single case design analysis.

Doody's Review Service

"...a useful resource for doctoral students and researchers as a good introduction to single case design analysis."—Doody's

From the Publisher