Objective 4.2 Explain how a case study could be used to investigate a problem in an organization or group

Understanding problems in groups One of the best ways to understand groups, in general, is to understand one group, in depth. The case-study approach has a long and respected tradition in all the sciences, with some of the greatest advances in thinking coming from case studies rather than from experiments or survey studies. The field of group dynamics, in particular, is checkered with case studies that have transformed the field: the case analyses conducted at the Hawthorne Plant of the Western Electric Company

Understanding problems in groups By examining a group during its actual activities, you gain understanding of such groups in general. Provide examples to support this statement. Detailed case studies on groups, in some cases, are higher in external validity, and they can also be the vessel for more advanced theoretical analysis.

Understanding problems in groups Indeed, extending David B. Miller's comments about naturalistic observation to case studies of groups. we find that case studies are useful because: They allow us to study groups, for their own sake They serve as a "starting point for investigating certain behavioral phenomena and subsequently serve as a point of departure from which to develop a program of laboratory research"

Understanding problems in groups They can serve to validate findings obtained in quantitative data (such as questionnaires and closed-ended interviews) They provide us with a larger context for understanding groups as they form, develop, and disband in their natural settings;

Investigating problems in groups Case studies can deal with either single or multiple cases. There are two types of single case study that are helpful for investigating problems within a group: the intrinsic and the instrumental The intrinsic case study is done to learn about a unique phenomenon which the study focuses on. Specifically, intrinsic case studies can look at unique problems within a group. Examples should be used The researcher needs to be able to define the uniqueness of this phenomenon which distinguishes it from all others; possibly based on a collection of features or the sequence of events. Intrinsic case studies are not looking to generalize, they are looking to describe.

Investigating problems in groups The instrumental case study is done to provide a general understanding of a phenomenon/problem using a particular case. The case chosen can be a typical case although an unusual case may help illustrate matters overlooked in a typical case because they are atypical.

Understanding problems in groups Indeed, extending David B. Miller's comments about naturalistic observation to case studies of groups (1977, American Psychologist, Vol. 32, pp. 211-220), we find that case studies are useful because: They allow us to study groups, for their own sake They serve as a "starting point for investigating certain behavioral phenomena and subsequently serve as a point of departure from which to develop a program of laboratory research" (Miller, p. 213);

Investigating a problem in a group. Book review

How a case study would help to study this problem. The case study approach is an ideal strategy to investigation a situation like this It provides an opportunity to combine different data collection methods. The method can bring out important data from the viewpoint of the participants, using a multiple sources of data. Provides the basis for a more in-depth and holistic analysis