A Final Note from the Authors

We hope that you’ve learned a lot from this book, but we also realize that one book can only teach you so much. Research is a huge and amazing world. It would be great if, a few years from now, you still remember what all differentiates probability sampling methods from non-probability ones, or the principles for evaluating trustworthiness in qualitative research. However, we recognize that if you don’t continue doing research in some way, the details may get fuzzy. That’s okay! Our biggest hope is that, even if you’re not applying the details every day, you’ll be able to continue appreciating the value of good research to your life and profession, whatever it is. We hope you’ll continuing to engage as a research consumer (or maybe even a research participant!), and that you’ll keep your critical thinking skills sharp by questioning the research findings you’re presented with. Discuss them with your colleagues, your partner, your doctor. Demand evidence and evaluate it. Above all, be curious! Research doesn’t have to be scary – and maybe, just maybe, it can even be a bit fun.