I think the most prominent feature of a case study that distinguishes it from other methods such as survey is its individualized nature. Case studies may even call for customized research methodology and need lots of time to best suit the requirements of a research subject, and bring to light all relevant facts and data for the purpose of drawing up an accurate picture of the subject or situation. It could involve digging up of a huge amount of details/information, in contrast with quick facts and figures obtained during a survey.The research focus of a case study is thus narrow and well-defined, and its findings may not be relevant to other cases at all. In short, the findings may not help in making generalized conclusions about topics or issues.
Case study findings could also include lots of personal stories and thus, run the risk of being relegated to the lore category. However, that is precisely the beauty of a case study... it is unique. In my research in the classroom, I definitely see considerable amount of case study happening as I examine individual assignments to ascertain student proficiency in areas such as focus, development and clarity (the prescribed rubrics). Finally, it will be the general impression gathered from all of my 21 students that will help determine the best methods of teaching and grading. If any student stands out as a special case (for instance someone with special needs), (s)he can be helped individually, in a customised manner. However, fact remains that to indentify such students, I still need to follow the case study track.
So to sum up, I think I will have to use a mixed methods approach—contextualized and case studies primarily, with more methods added to the approach if required—keeping two worldviews in mind: social constructivist (for the benefit of students and the teaching/learning process in general) and pragmatic (to figure out the best teaching and grading methods in a developmental/freshman class). The findings of this research is what will lead to the heuristic, that is, answering the question: how can one maximize the benefits of using rubrics when teaching and learning in the classroom?
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I'd say most of us tend toward mixed methods. It's interesting to me that you associate case study with "personal story." I wonder if it allows for more or less participant/subject story sharing and perspective than other qualitative measures like focus groups or ethnography. It's always interesting to me that case study allows us to share others' stories but that these stories are always filtered through us as researcher.
Jen
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