Introducing Qualitative Methods Series: Using Diaries for Social Research

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This book stands alone in its comprehensive coverage of diary research methodology, detailing the entire process from subject access to data analysis. It is an invaluable resource for researchers, as noted by Professor Anthony P Macmillan Coxon, who praises it as the best text for diary research. In this clear and engaging introduction, Andy Alaszewski presents diary analysis as a unique research technique. The book fills a gap in the literature by addressing the growing interest in diary methodology within social research. Alaszewski effectively integrates theory, history, and methodology, beginning with the evolution of diary keeping and its key characteristics. He explores how diaries can be utilized in social research and guides researchers in identifying suitable diaries and diarists. The text also covers how to structure diaries to yield valuable research material. Finally, it delves into the analysis phase, discussing statistical techniques, content analysis, and structural analysis as methods for examining diary texts. This essential guide is perfect for students and researchers in social and historical fields, as well as those engaged in narrative research.