Criminology Skills covers both criminological study skills and research skills in one volume, giving students the skills they need to succeed in the study of criminology.

A three-part structure covers finding source materials, academic skills, study skills, and research methodology, guiding students through a range of skills and methods which they will need to practise and demonstrate in their degree. Topics covered include finding and evaluating criminological resources, referencing and avoiding plagiarism, preparing for exams, planning a research project, data analysis and much more.

Criminology Skills first helps students to establish a strong and comprehensive skills foundation before building to a more advanced level, increasing their competence and confidence with which to approach projects.

Digital formats and resources

The third edition is available for students and institutions to purchase in a variety of formats, and is supported by online resources.

• The eBook offers a mobile experience and convenient access along with functionality tools, navigation features and links that offer extra learning support: Find the eBook on VitalSource.
• The online resources that support the book include:
  • Practical exercises
  • Animated walk-throughs showing how to use online databases
  • Activities to help students test their understanding of ethical considerations and of the differences between quantitative and qualitative research methods

Introduction
Part I: Criminology criminological resources
1: What is criminology?
2: Books, journals, and articles
3: Statistics and official publications
4: Media and web sources
5: Criminal law
Part II: Academic Criminology Skills
6: Study skills
7: Writing skills
8: Referencing and avoiding plagiarism
9: Essay writing
10: Presentations
11: Revision and examinations
Part III: Research Skills in Criminology
12: Research ethics
13: Gathering data
14: Quantitative analysis
15: Qualitative analysis
16: Dissertations and research reports

Emily Finch, author and lecturer

Stefan Fafinski, author

Emily Finch is an experienced law lecturer and has taught criminal law, criminal evidence and cybercrime at a number of institutions. Her overarching research interest is in public perceptions of crime and criminality and the impact of technology on criminal activity, especially the criminogenic potential of the internet. She has a particular interest in jury decision-making and has conducted a number of empirical studies that explore factors that influence jury verdicts in rape, theft and fraud trials. Her current research focus is on dishonesty and the niche vulnerability of older internet users.

Stefan Fafinski has extensive experience in teaching intellectual property law, cyberlaw, and cybercrime. He is interested in the social and legal factors that influence information security and the security challenges presented by networked technologies in general. He is currently a member of the Parole Board for England and Wales.

The online resources that support the book include:

• Practical exercises
• Animated walk-throughs showing how to use online databases
• Activities to help students test their understanding of ethical considerations and of the differences between quantitative and qualitative research methods

`This is a unique and impressive book. It deals with the issues that students commonly experience and brings them together in one complete resource. The book really has taken into account the entire journey of undergraduate study.' - Dr Caroline Gorden, Senior lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice, Wrexham Glyndwr University

`This is a clear and well-structured book that offers an accessible pathway into the world of criminological skills and research. Filled with practical tips, students who invest in it will be provided with a valuable companion for their undergraduate degree.' - Jack Spicer, Lecturer in Criminology, University of the West of England