Case Studies Case Study Research 3

Question 1

Which analytic technique compares an empirically observed pattern with a pattern predicted before data collection?

Accepted Answer

Pattern matching

Answer

Pattern matching compares predicted patterns with observed ones, strengthening internal validity when they coincide.

Question 2

Explanation building as an analytic strategy in case studies is best described as:

Accepted Answer

An iterative process of revising causal propositions as evidence is examined

Answer

Explanation building iteratively refines theoretical propositions against case evidence until a coherent explanation emerges.

Question 3

A researcher studying a hospital merger interviews executives, reviews board minutes, and observes staff meetings. This combination illustrates:

Accepted Answer

Data source triangulation

Answer

Using interviews, documents, and observations on the same phenomenon is triangulation of data sources.

Question 4

What is the main threat when a case study relies heavily on interviews conducted long after the events occurred?

Accepted Answer

Retrospective bias and inaccurate recall by informants

Answer

Retrospective accounts are vulnerable to memory distortion and post-hoc rationalization by informants.

Question 5

In case study reporting, a 'chain of evidence' allows the reader to:

Accepted Answer

Trace each conclusion back through the data to the original research questions

Answer

A chain of evidence links research questions, protocol, data, and conclusions so readers can follow the derivation in either direction.

Case Studies Practice Test