Select a contemporary case study involving any form of organization (e.g., corporation, nonprofit, government agency) and analyze the situation using one or more theoretical or conceptual perspectives we discussed in class this semester.
The case study:
A case study is empirical research - based on observed and measured phenomena and deriving knowledge from actual experience rather than from theory or belief.
Case studies are not always defined under the same parameters. Sometimes these publications will classify themselves as a case study and clearly label themselves as such in their titles; other times, the content matches the definition of a case study but the term is not explicitly used. This can make locating these studies tricky. Don't worry - we will get you started today in class, and you can follow up with Joel if you are still not finding what you hoped for.
Even if it's not labeled as a case study, it may still qualify. Does it detail an actual situation involving some sort of problem? Does it include a methods section where they share the way they addressed the problem and assess their success? Look it over carefully and see if it would allow you to accomplish the assignment. Also, when in doubt, ask Dr. Ems!
BUSINESS CASE STUDIES
BROAD SEARCH (Including books and ebooks)
PAID CASE STUDY REPOSITORIES
The CRAAP test lists criteria that can help you evaluate the quality and appropriateness of the information sources you encounter.
When was the information published or posted?
Do you need historical or current information?
Has this information been revised or changed since it was first released?
BOTTOM LINE: Does this offer appropriately current or historical information?
Image: Bummer by Nick Harris1. Used under CC BY-ND
Does the information help you accomplish the purpose of your work/paper? Does this easily relate to your topic?
Does this source meet all your information needs or assignment requirements?
Is this source at an appropriate level for your intended audience?
Have you looked at a variety of sources? Why is this source better than others?
BOTTOM LINE: Is this a source that adds value to your work? Why is it worth including?
Image: Confused by CollegeDegrees360. Used under CC BY-SA 2.0
Who is the author? Who is the publisher?
BOTTOM LINE: Can you trust this author and publisher to know what they're talking about?
Image: [Man with Cameras] by i k o. Used under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
Is this information correct? Reliable?
Are sources listed? Cited within the text?
If the source conducted its own original research:
BOTTOM LINE: Can you trust that this information is true?
Image: Darts by Richard_of_England. Used under CC BY 2.0
What is the purpose of this information source?
Is the information fact, opinion, or propoganda?
Do the authors/publishers make their intentions clear?
Is there bias - political, cultural, religious, ideological, personal, etc?
BOTTOM LINE: Is this source objective and impartial, or is it influenced by bias or hidden agendas?
Image: "Is your trip necessary?" by Richard Masoner / Cyclelicious.Used under CC BY-SA 2.0.
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