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Intelligence Analyst as Social Scientist: A Comparison of Research Methods

NCJ Number
172659
Journal
Police Studies Volume: 19 Issue: 3 Dated: (1996) Pages: 67-80
Author(s)
H W Prunckun Jr
Date Published
1996
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This study explores the relationship between law enforcement intelligence and social research, and the author contends analysts employed in the law enforcement intelligence field can benefit from the knowledge and skills of social scientists.
Abstract
The study compares some of the most frequently used qualitative data collection methods and analytical techniques employed by intelligence analysts with those of social scientists. The focus is on intelligence units versus research sections, the research cycle, data collection, and data analysis. The study concludes providing tertiary education in social research methods for law enforcement intelligence personnel, or alternatively recruiting social scientists as analysts, can be beneficial. The study also points to similar positive situations experienced by the Central Intelligence Agency in its exchange program with various universities. 40 references, 3 endnotes, and 7 figures