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
WorldCat - BROAD SEARCH (Including books and ebooks)
WorldCat doesn't have a case study limiter, but you can click on Advanced Search, choose Subject from the drop-down menu under Search Index, and type "case studies" (don't forget the quotation marks!) in the search box. On the search results page, choose the "Article" limiter under Format.
PAID CASE STUDY REPOSITORIES
You will be assigned to a group of 3-4, and I will assign each group a resource to search.
Group 1: Communication & Mass Media Complete
Group 2: Academic Search Premier
Group 3: Business Source Complete
Group 4: SAGE Business Cases
Group 5: ProQuest Business
Group 6: WorldCat
Figure out how to find a case study that is
1. Contemporary (let’s say the last 5 years)
2. A reliable academic source. (Don’t worry, I will help you!)
One member of the group should share their screen in their breakout room so that the entire group can see.
Find 2 case studies that look like they could work for the topic of 2 different people in your group. or just 2 that look interesting. If you're having trouble finding something for your topic, don't worry. Not every resource is going to work for your topic!
After ~10 minutes, we will gather together in the main room, and each group will teach the class how to use their assigned resource.
You are welcome to reuse the content of this Guide as long as you attribute Butler University Libraries.
Email Butler University Libraries
Irwin Library: 317-940-9227
Science Library: 317-940-9937
CAT: 317-940-8575
