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This is a terrific book. It has a unique focus on social network research design, the critical interface between conceptual thinking and empirical research. It also has a wealth of detailed guidance on how to do network research, covering problem formulation, data collection, and data analysis, and is supported by interesting, diverse and appropriate examples.
Robins has provided a comprehensive exposition of social network research that teems with insights which seamlessly alternate between theory and real-world, practical examples. This book is a “must read” for anyone interested in conducting social network research and a “must have” for scholars who want to understand the distinctiveness of network research. Robins’ thoughtful approach to network research will help improve the quality of future scientific investigations into the causes and consequences of social network processes across a wide range of applications.
I have been waiting a long time for a book that educates researchers on how to design network studies and how to gather network data, paying less attention to the methodology necessary to do the analysis. The book is finally here. Visualization, design, measurement, data structures, dealing with subjects — these are the topics here, topics that are usually given none or very little attention in standard network methodology books. It will be the first book mentioned on my network analysis course syllabi. And it should be on every network researcher’s bookshelf.
Garry has produced a first rate book that explains in detail how to do social network research. He masterfully focuses on research design drawing on his years of experience conducting network research. This book fills a big gap in the literature and is a must have for all social network researchers.
Social network research is widely applicable, data intensive, highly nuanced, not simplistic, ethics sensitive, and its methods continue to evolve; all characteristics that make this book a must read by those looking to conduct social network research, especially for their first time.
The strong point of Robins' work is above all to succeed in articulating analysis of networks and other theories from the social sciences, while referring to concrete and recent research. The book regularly takes the view of a "thoroughbred" network analyst and tries to encourage the reader to think "networks". If the book is aimed primarily at a novice researcher in network analysis, the sharpness of the last chapters will also appeal to the more experienced researcher.
Two categories of readers will find this book particularly interesting. First, those considering an investigation in connection with networks. They will find both a recent presentation of the area and support at each milestone to select the appropriate tools and literature. On the other hand, those who are interested to locate the specifics - both methodological and conceptual - of a research area that has undergone significant changes in recent years.
Great book for social scientists who want to apply social network theory to their teaching and research.
comments as before, great text for teaching,comprehensive
Good introduction to SNA, well structured and easy for international students
Wonderful book. Simple and to the point treatment of all the relevant topics in network research.
This is a most valuable, practical source on how to conceptualise network research
This is an excellent, and much needed book, which extends beyond describing how social network analysis works in theory to explain the pitfalls and complications of using it in practice. This is an important resource for introducing students to the issues they need to consider when undertaking network studies.
Robins addresses reasonably experienced social scientists. For a course on the postgraduate level, it is very good. As an introductory level textbook, it is less useful. I recommend it (and address some chapters) in my masters' level courses.
Good book for social network research
Very useful. Is has applications in several courses.
A helpful guide to develop research skills and ideas
This is a clear and comprehensive introduction to social network analysis which is essential reading for all students and researchers new to the field. The author draws on his extensive experience to introduce and illustrate major concepts and methods, always presented in an accessible and straightforward manner. It is a valuable addition to the field.
Provides a great deal of background information of each measure including strengths and issues that it presents. It also includes a lot of background research and contexts where it has been used previously.
I found this a very useful text in this subject area, some thought provoking information that challenged my thinking and teaching!
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