Home Guides Case Studies Case Study: Concerns about Validity, Reliability, and Generalizability

Introduction

Definition

Overview

History

Educational Applications

Types and Design

Types

Identifying a Theoretical Perspective

Designing a Case Study

Discussion of Primary Examples in this Guide

Conducting Case Studies

Single or Multi-modal approach

Participant Selection

Data Collection

Data Analysis

Composing the Report

Issues of Validity and Reliability

Commentary

Strengths and Weaknesses

Concerns about Reliability, Validity, and Generalizability

Key Terms

Annotated Bibliography

Related Links

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Authors & Contributors

Case Study: Concerns about Validity, Reliability, and Generalizability

Merriam (1985) offers several suggestions for how case study researchers might actively combat the popular attacks on the validity, reliability, and generalizability of case studies:

• Steps to Improve Validity and Reliability
• Concerns about Generalizability