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Talking about Case Studies. A Selection of Ideas. Case Studies. What is a Case Study? A single clearly defined entity selected for study in detail, using one or more study methods over a specified period.
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Talking about Case Studies A Selection of Ideas
Case Studies What is a Case Study? • A single clearly defined entity selected for study in detail, using one or more study methods over a specified period. • A single case study means that generalising to other cases will be problematic. Two or more recommended. • Choose carefully for relevance. • The focus implied in a case study can be a strength.
Designing a Case Study Key Elements of Case Study Design • Defining the boundaries of the case • Describing and accurately defining the distinctiveness of the case • Defining the purpose of the study and the problem focus of the case study • Determining the best method(s) for the study
Case Studies Comparative Case Studies • For some study situations • Strengths and weaknesses • Greater generalising power • Need for a disciplined common approach to both studies • Triangulation will strengthen the study
Case Studies Assessing the quality of case studies • Is your research design adequate? What are its strengths? • Have you considered validity and reliability? • Are your conclusions consistent with the evidence?
Case Studies Triangulation • Multiple methods • Multiple sources of data • Multiple perspectives eg a user’s perspective and a manager’s perspective
Case Studies: testing for quality • Construct validity • Internal validity • External validity • Reliability and “Generalisability” • Reference: Robert K. Yin