Developing Case Studies

All data about the case are gathered For example, if the study is to highlight a program's failure with a client, data would be collected about the program, its processes and the client. Data could result from a combination of methods, including documentation (applications, histories, records, etc.), questionnaires, interviews and observation.

Data are organized into an approach to highlight the focus of the study Data in the case are typically presented in a chronological order to portray the relevant events, experiences, persons and dynamics.

A case study narrative is developed The narrative is a highly readable story that integrates and summarizes key information around the focus of the case study. The narrative should be complete to the extent that it is the eyes and ears for an outside reader to understand what happened regarding the case. Key components and key quotes from principals may be included.

The narrative might be validated by review from program participants For example, the client for whom the program failed, would read the narrative to ensure it fully depicted his or her experience and results.

Case studies might be cross-compared to isolate any themes or patterns For example, various case studies about program failures might be compared to notice commonalities in these clients' experiences and how they went through the program. These commonalities might highlight where in the program the process needs to be strengthened.

Types of Case Studies Illustrative Exploratory Cumulative Primarily descriptive and intended to make the unfamiliar familiar Exploratory Help identify questions and select measurements before a major study Cumulative Collection of past studies for greater generalization Critical Instance Unique interest with little or no desire for generalizability

Analysis What are the major issues? Look for units, components, clusters, themes, etc. What questions can/should be asked/answered? How can we better understand what happened (or did not happen) and why (or why not)? Where do we go from there? Given the understanding generated from the analysis, what can/should be done in the future? How can we improve understanding, theory, practice? Can some framework be developed and presented?