By Dr. Noelle Sterne
Q: I’m at the point of choosing a dissertation topic—and panicked. How do I pick the right one?
—Top(ic)less
A: No need to panic, but it is a big decision. And with more implications than you might think.
By Dr. Noelle Sterne
Q: I’m at the point of choosing a dissertation topic—and panicked. How do I pick the right one?
—Top(ic)less
A: No need to panic, but it is a big decision. And with more implications than you might think.
Occupational Health and Safety: Measuring Safety Performance by Amna S. Imamshah distills peer-reviewed research into a practical, academically rigorous guide to what we should measure in occupational safety, why it matters, and how to measure it effectively. Moving beyond injury counts, the book integrates concepts such as safety climate and culture, leadership, learning from weak signals, and system reliability, demonstrating how these leading indicators connect to health, well-being, and performance outcomes. It addresses methodological quality—validity, reliability, sensitivity to change—and showcases mixed-methods approaches that transform data into decisions. Throughout, readers receive research-based indicator sets, example dashboards, and step-by-step guidance for developing defensible metrics and communicating trade-offs.
We asked the 2026 TAA Textbook Award winners what they wish they’d known before embarking on their textbook-writing journey. Whether you’re an aspiring author or already deep in the process, their advice may help you avoid common challenges and learn a few lessons the easy way.
Stay updated on the latest news, advancements, and changes that are shaping the textbook and academic authoring industry with our bi-weekly Industry News Round-Up. Have an item to share? Email Sierra.Pawlak@TAAonline.net.
Education Dept. Eyes Changing College Merger, Civil Rights Enforcement Regs (July 8, 2026)
Becoming a School Counselor by Patrick R. Mullen highlights the experiences and perspectives of practicing school counselors to provide readers with an in-depth examination of the profession. The book does not attempt to cover the entirety of the field but rather zeroes in on pressing issues and presents them with an honest and balanced viewpoint. Aimed especially at those in the early stages of their career, the narrative parallels a conversation with a seasoned school counselor, blending inspiration with practical challenges inherent in the job.
TAA members Jamie Pope and Steven Nizielski are excited to announce the release of the third edition of their introductory nutrition textbook, Nutrition for a Changing World, published by Macmillan Learning in partnership with Scientific American. As with past editions, the journalistic approach connects students to nutrition science through real stories, real people, and real discoveries.