Case Study

Definitions

Definition

• In-depth study and comparison
• Can be a process of analysis, product of analysis, or both
• Bounded system (One unit of analysis with layers)

Definition

• Combined with various theoretical perspectives
• Analysis reflects philosophical tradition (Jones, Torres, & Arminio, 2014)
• Collect data on lowest level unit of analysis
• Do justice to each individual case

Characteristics

• Connecting to Theoretical Perspective
• Setting the Context
• Sampling
• Data Analysis
• Emphasize interpretation

Case Data

• General information needed
• Individual, relationships & phenomenon
• Program, process, institutions, phenomenon

Data to Case Study

• Raw data
• Case record
• Final case study narrative

Guidelines for Construction

• Capture uniqueness
• Smaller units
• Multiple data sources
• Tell a core story
• Coherent for reader

Guidelines for Construction

• Balance detail & relevance
• Readability and coherence check
• Accuracy check

Critiques

Questions?