Case study research has a long history within the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, dating back to the early 1920's. At first it was a useful way for researchers to make valid inferences from events outside the laboratory in ways consistent with the rigorous practices of investigation inside the lab. Over time, case study approaches garnered interest in multiple disciplines as scholars studied phenomena in context. Despite widespread use, case study research has received little attention among the literature on research strategies. The Encyclopedia of Case Study Research provides a compendium on the important methodological issues in conducting case study research and explores both the strengths and weaknesses of different paradigmatic approaches. These two volumes focus on the distinctive characteristics of case study research and its place within and alongside other research methodologies. Key Features Presents a definition of case study research that can be used in different fields of study Describes case study as a research strategy rather than as a single tool for decision making and inquiry Guides rather than dictates, readers' understanding and applications of case study research Includes a critical summary in each entry, which raises additional matters for reflection Makes case study relevant to researchers at various stages of their careers, across philosophic divides, and throughout diverse disciplines Key Themes Academic Disciplines Case Study Research Design Conceptual Issues Data Analysis Data Collection Methodological Approaches Theoretical Traditions Theory Development and Contributions From Case Study Research Types of Case Study Research
Some of the more troublesome and disturbing aspects of workplace diversity are illuminated in this volume - individual and institutional resistance, the effectiveness of diversity change efforts and the less visible ways in which exclusion and discrimination continue to be practised in the workplace. To help the reader understand some of these dilemmas, the contributors adopt a number of theoretical frameworks which are striking departures from traditional perspectives on diversity. These include: intergroup relations theory; critical theory; Jungian psychology; feminism; post- colonial theory; cultural history; postmodernism; realism; institutional theory; and class analysis. In addition, they examine different organizational situations in which complex predicaments of diversity surface - many of which cross race, gender, ethnic and other socially constructed boundaries.
