Research Methods for Accounting and Finance is an essential text for accounting and finance students undertaking research for the first time. It demystifies the research process by providing the novice researcher with a must-have guide through all of the stages of the research process, from identifying a research topic to the finished project.

This book explores new topics in modern research on empirical corporate finance and applied accounting, especially the econometric analysis of microdata. Dubbed “financial microeconometrics” by the author, this concept unites both methodological and applied approaches. The book examines how quantitative methods can be applied in corporate finance and accounting research in order to predict companies getting into financial distress. Presented in a clear and straightforward manner, it also suggests methods for linking corporate governance to financial performance, and discusses what the determinants of accounting disclosures are. Exploring these questions by way of numerous practical examples, this book is intended for researchers, practitioners and students who are not yet familiar with the variety of approaches available for data analysis and microeconometrics. “This book on financial microeconometrics is an excellent starting point for research in corporate finance and accounting. In my view, the text is positioned between a narrative and a scientific treatise. It is based on a vast amount of literature but is not overloaded with formulae. My appreciation of financial microeconometrics has very much increased. The book is well organized and properly written. I enjoyed reading it.” Wolfgang Marty, Senior Investment Strategist, AgaNola AG

Selecting from the wide range of research methodologies remains a dilemma for all scholars, not least those looking to study the world of accounting. Both established and emerging research methods are frequently advocated, creating a challengingly broad range of choices. Covering a selection of qualitative methodological issues, research strategies and methods, this comprehensive compilation provides an essential guide to the choice and execution of qualitative research approaches in this field. The contributions are grouped into four sections: Worldview and paradigms Methodologies and strategies Data collection methods and analysis Experiencing qualitative field research: personal reflections Edited by leading scholars, with contributions from experts and rising stars, this volume will be essential reading for anyone looking to undertake research in the qualitative accounting field.

Providing a clear and concise overview of the conduct of applied research studies in accounting, Malcolm Smith presents the principal building blocks of how to implement research in accounting and related fields.

What is my theory? How do I choose a theory? Why and how should I employ a particular method for collecting the empirical data? These basic questions concern everyone involved in research. A research study can be a voyage of discovering or choice of theoretical perspective as well as gathering empirics or facts on a problem or situation. This book provides a good guideline as to why and how to choose a particular theory or method to study an organisational phenomenon such as accounting. All the chapters provide both retrospective and contemporary views by scholars in the field. Each chapter documents the latest developments and research in accounting and control systems and provides valuable insights into methodological perspectives in accounting research. This second edition has also introduced a number of new chapters covering strategy-management control as practice, grounded theory approach, institutional logic and rhetoric, social interaction theory, actor-network theory and practice theory. The book is primarily intended for research students and academic researchers. It can also be used for undergraduate Honours course as well as postgraduate accounting and business methodology courses. Research organisations and consulting firms in accounting and business fields may also find this book useful. The principal aims of this second edition are (1) to update the chapters previously published in 2006 and (2) to introduce new chapters documenting recent developments in accounting research.

Designed specifically for accounting students and researchers, Research Methods in Accounting is a unique text used by over 10,000 students that provides a thorough understanding of the research process. Using practical and real life examples from industry, it outlines the relevant methods that can be applied and offers a dedicated chapter on publishing your research. New to this edition: New examples and updated content on the use of archival methods and accounting processes A new section on mixed methods research Expanded coverage of structural equation modelling and partial least-squares analysis Further discussion on the topic of theoretical foundations when choosing between research methods Suitable for students at advanced undergraduate and postgraduate levels, as well as accounting research practitioners.