This guide for researchers introduces important research methodologies and data collecting techniques, provides a framework for the critical assessment of existing research, and encourages involvement of academics and practitioners in research. Chapter 1, on planning a research project, discusses scheduling, time management, and planning the specific project. Chapter 2 focuses on obtaining funds and access issues, and chapter 3 deals with methodology, including surveys, ethnographic methods, case studies, action research, life history methods, historical research, etc. The development of various data collecting devices and techniques is covered in chapter 4, and the analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data is discussed in chapter 5. Chapter 6 deals with the research and subject literature, including strategies for managing literature searches and evaluating findings. Chapter 7 considers special issues when a particular organization is the subject of the research, such as cultural and political approaches. The links between quality improvements, monitoring, evaluation, and action research are addressed in chapter 8, while the importance of reflecting upon one's research is stressed in chapter 9. The role of the computer in both quantitative and qualitative research is discussed in chapter 10. The final chapter considers concerns in writing the final report and getting the work published. (Contains approximately 200 references.) (DB)