This book offers a lively introduction to the research methods and techniques available to English language teachers who wish to investigate aspects of their own practice. It covers qualitative and quantitative methodology and includes sections on observation, introspection, diary studies, experiments, interviews, questionnaires, numerical techniques and case study research.Each method is illustrated with examples in language teaching contexts, and techniques of data collection and analysis are introduced. The authors focus particularly on research in the classroom, on tests, materials, the effects of innovations, and they discuss methods appropriate to research in various collaborative modes as well as by individuals. A key feature of the book is an introduction to the debate surrounding different approaches to research, with an evaluation of traditional research in relation to the paradigms associated with reflective practice and action research.The book is ideal for teachers on initial training and post-experience courses, students on degree programmes in applied linguistics and TEFL and, of course, practising teachers with an interest in research methods in language teaching.

Introduction: setting the scene; Part 1 Principles and Perspectives; Chapter 1 Teachers in action; Chapter 2 The teacher researcher in focus; Chapter 3 What is research?; Chapter 4 Principles and problems: what makes good research?; Chapter 5 Generating research; Part 2 Topics and Methods; Chapter 6 Definitions and overview; Chapter 7 Observing language classrooms; Chapter 8 Diaries and diary studies; Chapter 9 Using numbers; Chapter 10 Doing experiments; Chapter 11 Asking questions; Chapter 12 Looking inside: methods for introspection; Chapter 13 Studying cases; Chapter 14 Mixing research methods; Conclusion;