Doing Coaching Research

This book provides a solid foundation for conducting coaching research, ensuring that key terms and phrases are defined in the earlier chapters. Moreover, it is explained that each of the chapters on the main research methodologies can be read independently, ensuring that the reader is informed of only that which is necessary for conducting their study. Additionally, the use of fact boxes, exercises and diagrams further promotes readability.

Various authors have written the chapters and cumulatively have a wealth of experience in a range of domains, mainly in academia, as is expected, but also those who are practitioners themselves. Moreover, they are located in various countries, including the UK, South Africa and the US, providing an international flavour to the content of the book.

However, one main criticism is that the identity of the book's audience is somewhat confused: They explain that they wish to inform practitioners conducting research and also students doing independent research; however, the rather rudimentary content would lead itself more to the former group, perhaps who are returning to study/research after completing university many years ago. It is debatable whether this book would provide any benefit to those students who are completing research and probably already have basic research knowledge.

Despite this, it provides a very well written and clear explanation of research as it relates to the practice of coaching.