This essential book is perfect for all social work and health and social care students, as well as early-career practitioners, aiming to deepen their knowledge and skills in conducting robust, ethical, and relevant developmental research.

At undergraduate level students encounter various forms of research, yet formal research training is often lacking. This book aims to fill that gap by supporting students and early-career practitioners with the knowledge, skills and understanding required to conductsound research. Accessibly written, it is structured to allow professionals and students to engage in the theoretical development of their practice in ethical and reflective research.

Each chapter incorporates student voices, featuring vignettes from health and social care students that highlight their personal journeys with research engagement. Content includes:

• exploring the everyday nature of research, processes, procedures and analysis;
• demystifying key terminology;
• an introduction to research and its importance in practice;
• creative and traditional tools of research;
• analysing data and how to disseminate data;
• approaches to research;
• embedding research into practice.

Discussions around key theoretical ideas are explored throughout as well as opportunities for deep reflection.