Alison Kington

This research methodology book advances the concept of Critical Realist Grounded Theory (CRGT), building upon Glaser and Strauss' classic grounded theory while incorporating critical realism as its philosophical foundation. The approach reconceptualises original grounded theory methodology, enabling researchers to develop theories with causal explanations for observed phenomena. The comprehensive guide addresses crucial methodological questions including literature review timing and maintaining grounded theory integrity throughout the research process. It redefines "all is data" and provides systematic yet flexible coding approaches that facilitate theory generation. While not exclusively designed for mixed methods researchers, Critical Realist Grounded Theory specifically accommodates qualitative and quantitative data integration, addressing a significant gap in many grounded theory methodologies. Through practical examples, the work guides readers through the stages of a complete research project, introduces updated terminology, and explains how original grounded theory terms have been adapted to incorporate critical realist philosophy. This essential resource targets mixed methods and qualitative researchers across social sciences, particularly in educational, sociological, psychological, and allied health fields. The Emergence of Critical Realist Grounded Theory serves experienced researchers alongside Masters students completing dissertation research and postgraduate research degree students in MPhil, MRes, PhD, and professional doctorate programs, providing both the theoretical foundations and practical guidance for this innovative methodological approach.

This research methodology book advances the concept of Critical Realist Grounded Theory (CRGT), building upon Glaser and Strauss' classic grounded theory while incorporating critical realism as its philosophical foundation. The approach reconceptualises original grounded theory methodology, enabling researchers to develop theories with causal explanations for observed phenomena. The comprehensive guide addresses crucial methodological questions including literature review timing and maintaining grounded theory integrity throughout the research process. It redefines "all is data" and provides systematic yet flexible coding approaches that facilitate theory generation. While not exclusively designed for mixed methods researchers, Critical Realist Grounded Theory specifically accommodates qualitative and quantitative data integration, addressing a significant gap in many grounded theory methodologies. Through practical examples, the work guides readers through the stages of a complete research project, introduces updated terminology, and explains how original grounded theory terms have been adapted to incorporate critical realist philosophy. This essential resource targets mixed methods and qualitative researchers across social sciences, particularly in educational, sociological, psychological, and allied health fields. The Emergence of Critical Realist Grounded Theory serves experienced researchers alongside Masters students completing dissertation research and postgraduate research degree students in MPhil, MRes, PhD, and professional doctorate programs, providing both the theoretical foundations and practical guidance for this innovative methodological approach.

Teachers Matter offers the most definitive portrait of teachers’ lives and work to date. At a time when teaching standards are high on the political and social agenda, the quality and commitment of teaching staff is seen as paramount and they are viewed as pivotal to the economic and social well being of society. But:What are the influences that help or hinder teachers’ commitment? Is there an association between commitment and pupil attainment? Why are teachers’ identities important? What are teachers’ needs and concerns in different professional life phases? Does school context count? Based on a DfES funded study of 300 teachers in 100 primary and secondary schools in England, the authors identify different patterns of influence and effect between groups of teachers, which provide powerful evidence of the complexities of teachers’ work, lives, identity and commitment, in relation to their sense of agency, well-being, resilience and pupil attitudes and attainment. This, in turn, provides a clear message for teachers, teachers’ associations, school leaders and policy makers, in understanding and supporting the need to build and sustain school and classroom effectiveness. The book addresses issues such as the importance of career development, the relationships between school leadership, culture and teachers’ lives, maintaining a work-life balance, identity and well-being and the connection between commitment, resilience and effectiveness in the classroom. Original and highly relevant, Teachers Matter is invaluable reading for teachers, head teachers, researchers and teacher educators.