First, you have to understand the fundamental ideas involved in measuring. Here we consider two of major measurement concepts. Then we move on to the reliability of measurement, including consideration of true score theory and a variety of reliability estimators. Second, you have to understand the different types of measures that you might use in social research. We consider four broad categories of measurements.
Survey research includes the design and implementation of interviews and questionnaires.
Scaling involves consideration of the major methods of developing and implementing a scale. Qualitative research provides an overview of the broad range of non-numerical measurement approaches. And unobtrusive measures presents a variety of measurement methods that don't intrude on or interfere with the context of the research. Purchase the complete printed text of the Knowledge Base online Research Methods Knowledge Base, 2nd edition.