For my master thesis I am currently designing a single case study. Due to the limited size of the case organisation the case study will be of qualitative nature.
The purpose of the single case study research is to test/verify whether an existing, generic theory is applicable to the case study context based on qualitative research and based on the findings, conclude suitability for the case context and possibly come up with alterations to the existing framework.
I am stuck on two parts:
First, what would be an adequate case study method for the purpose of this research? I've read about Grounded Theory which assumes the researcher starts without a theoretical concept or framework and also about theory-testing using qualitative case studies. But neither seems to be directly applicable to my research needs.
Second, I have not been able to find a process, grounded in literature to approach framework testing/verification using qualitative methods. I find it odd that I can find no books or other literature that breaks down the process of steps (for example, by designing an interview/interview questions based on variables in an existing framework).
One well-known approach, which may be beyond your current resources, is a comparative case study. This would involve investigating two (or more cases) where your prior theory would predict different results in each case.
A good general introduction to case studies is Stake, The Art of Case Study Research.
Hi David,
Thank you for your recommendations. The possibility for me to perform a multi-case study is not entirely certain as of yet. Would you happen to know any options in a single case scenario?
Arvid Borger You would need strong hypothese about a particular case in a particular set of circumstances that would meet a clear of predictions. Since you want to do a "test," you basically need to have a hypothesis that is falsifiable, so that what you observe might reasonably either support or not support your claims.
Frankly speaking qualitative research is always preferred as it is detailed and explains phenomena behind events. At least I rank qualitative research above quantitative. Case study is an exhaustive probe into one or very few number of similar entities to deeply understand process you aim to explain. During this process you may administer questionnaire internally to workers and managers . For example you change a practice in the organization and then study its effects. The case research is explanatory not conclusive as sample size is not random and diverse. No postulates can be formed by case study. The tools will depend on research design and what type of observations data you collect and your hypothesis
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