Yin, R. K. (2009). Designing Case Studies Identifying Your Case(s) and Establishing the Logic of Your Case Study in Case Study Research Design and Methods (4th ed.) (p25-65). California: Sage
In this chapter Yin suggests that unlike other research methodologies there is no comprehensive catalogue of research designs for case studies. Based on his experience and on earlier editions of the book he provides the reader with a basic set of research designs and suggests that although the designs need to be continually modified and improved they will help with the design of a rigorous and methodologically sound case study.
Yin starts by advocating five components of research design. He goes on to discuss the tests that have been developed to test the quality of any empirical research and suggests methods that may be employed in case studies to deal with these tests. The chapter progresses by identifying four different types of case study designs and provides rationale to indicate when each one should be used. Yin closes with what he calls “modest” advice on the choice of single or multiple designs, closed or flexible designs and mixed methods designs providing a word of caution to those about to embark on this form of research.
My original research proposal was based on an action research approach. I felt comfortable using this method and it seemed a natural choice that would allow me to implement a number of cycles of research leading to identification of best practise strategies for trainers using virtual classroom technology for the first time. Time has progressed and a change of plan with the technology has led me to change the topic for my research and consequently the methodology. By reading this chapter I have been able to select an appropriate design for my case study and understand the underlying issues. Although the chapter is written providing particular guidelines Yin’s “modest” advice takes the form of a concerned expert researcher who although he has provided the reader with the theory of design wants to arm the novice researcher with some cautionary notes to consider before embarking on their project.
