Case Study Research: The Art of Studying the Singular - Hardcover

by Helen Simons (Author)

Written from an interpretive and constructionist perspective, this insightful book explores how to conduct case study research focusing on the lived experience of those in the case. Helen Simons shines a spotlight on the use of art forms and story in case study research alongside other qualitative methods that advance intuitive understanding and inclusion. Underpinning this focus are epistemic justice and democratic ethics. In a lively, personal style, Simons distills expertise and practical wisdom gained over decades of conducting case study research of programs, policies, and institutions. Chapters consider how to design, conduct, and interpret case study research; write up cases for different audiences; assure validity and quality; and generalize from a single case. Helpful features include examples, summaries, practical tips, "Pauses to Reflect," and annotated suggestions for further reading.

Author Biography

Helen Simons, PhD, is Professor Emeritus of Education and Evaluation at the University of Southampton, United Kingdom. She is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences and the Royal Society of Arts, and a founder member and past president of the UK Evaluation Society. Dr. Simons has conducted many external case study evaluations funded by both governmental and nongovernmental agencies, directed case study training in 25 countries, and acted as consultant to several international organizations. She has been a visiting scholar at several universities in Spain and Australia, as well as in Iceland, Portugal, and Cyprus, and held research scholarships in New Zealand, Norway, and Poland. Her case study practice takes a humanities and arts focus underpinned by democratic ethics. Dr. Simons has also taken a major role in promoting professional ethics nationally and internationally, and has written and published widely on case study research, qualitative methodology, and ethics.