Tao of Research

Dana K. Keller and Mary Lou Casadevall-Keller provide readers with a highly accessible introduction to the fundamental concepts of research methods in The Tao of Research: A Path to Validity. This brief, engaging book approaches the topic of research through an exploration of the issues that threaten validity in the process of knowledge generation.

Key Features

• Examines the propositional, ethical, structural, functional, and technical restrictions researchers face
• Focuses on understanding how these restrictions influence research methods and results
• Makes concepts more accessible through discussions that follow the experiences of three "guides"—a high school principal, a statewide director of public health, and a sociology professor at a small liberal arts college.

The Tao of Research: A Path to Validity serves as either a main or supplemental text for courses such as Introduction to Research Methods, Social Research Methods, and Applied Research Methods.

Dana K. Keller, PhD, has explored Eastern philosophies for almost five decades, including a journey to China and Tibet. He embraces two very different worlds: the West’s scientific approach to knowledge and the East’s more intuitive and experiential approach. In The Tao of Statistics, he presents a way that the two worlds can mutually benefit. After supervising the research for over 100 doctoral dissertations, he joined the Delmarva Foundation as its chief statistician. During his seven years there, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services named him as a national resource for the nation’s managed care organizations for sampling and research methodology. His almost unique ability to explain statistical and methodological constructs in everyday language has resulted in his being frequently requested as a presenter and technical expert panel member. As president of Halcyon Research, Inc., he continues to bring his ability to explain statistical concepts simply to an ever-widening audience.  Mary Lou Casadevall-Keller received her M.S. in microbiology from the University of Delaware, as well as a B.A. in sociology and a B.S. in plant science. She embarked on a long career in corporate research, producing dozens of comprehensive market and product research reports, as well as a patent for a waterproof orthopedic cast liner. After corporate life, she worked to secure and monitor grants for community colleges and non-profit organizations. She and her husband, Dr. Dana Keller, are currently co-owners of a healthcare research consulting firm, Halcyon Research, Inc.