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Credibility and Dependability in Qualitative Case Study Method

Credibility and dependability in qualitative research can be difficult, particularly with the case study method. This article describes this issue and provides strategies to address it.

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marshadrice
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683 views3 pages

Credibility and Dependability in Qualitative Case Study Method

Credibility and dependability in qualitative research can be difficult, particularly with the case study method. This article describes this issue and provides strategies to address it.

Uploaded by

marshadrice
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Credibility and Dependability in Qualitative Case Study Method

M.D. Rice Introduction Regardless of the data or the results or the interpretations of any inquiry, it is the defense of the research as a bonafide scientific endeavor containing credibility and dependability that will determine its true value. Developing, maintaining, and defending credibility and dependability in the qualitative research paradigm is challenging in any circumstance, but particularly so in case study method (Meyer, 2001). As Meyer (2001) notes, however, even though there are few solid guidelines, it is essential and possible for the case study researcher to develop a cogent credibility and dependability plan. Researcher Behaviors and Accountability In all research, the importance of the researcher cannot be overstated. To help advance in the direction of maintenance of credibility and reliability in case study research, there are several researcher-related strategies that can be instituted. These strategies include a) self-monitoring for bias and paradigm comprehension at every level of research, b) meticulous record keeping, and c) ensuring quality, honesty, and proper organization of data (e.g. preliminary classification, coding, and/or transcription of data) as quickly as possible. Construct, Internal, and External Validity Validity in research can be simply stated as being an assessment of how well something measures what it is supposed to measure. Measuring what one purports to measure in qualitative research means selecting an appropriate method for a given question and applying

that method in a coherent, justifiable, and rigorous manner. (Collingridge and Gantt, 2008, p.391). Validity in qualitative case study research can be advanced by focusing on construct, internal, and external validity. Construct validity can be achieved through a) multiply-sourced evidence, b) ensuring chain of evidence, and c) informant review of draft (Yin, 2009; Stake, 1995). Internal validity can be achieved through pattern matching and explanation building in coding, interpretation, and presentation of data (Yin, 2009). External validity may be sufficiently addressed through theory confirmation (Yin, 2009).

Reliability Collingridge and Gantt (2008) note: Reliability in qualitative research typically refers to adopting research methods that are accepted by the research community as legitimate ways of collecting and analyzing data. (p.390). Reliability can be adequately addressed even in the case study method. Proposed procedures to ensure reliability in the qualitative case study method include: a) following and reporting the case study protocol, and b) developing a case study database (Yin, 2009). Conclusions Defense of credibility and dependability in the qualitative paradigm is an on-going issue. This is particularly evident in the case study method. The case study method allows a deep, concentrated contextual study of a case, but in doing so can provide unique challenges for properly addressing credibility and dependability. However, with proper forethought, organization, and planning, credibility and dependability assurance within a qualitative case study can be accomplished.

References Collingridge, D.S., and Gantt, E.E. (2008). The quality of qualitative research. American Journal of Medical Quality, 23, 389-395. doi: 10.1177/1062860608320646 Meyer, C.B. (2001). A case in case study methodology. Field Methods, 13, 329-352. doi: 10.1177/1525822X0101300402 Stake, R.E. (1995). The art of case study research. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. Yin, R.K. (2009). Case study research; Design and methods (4th ed.) [Applied Social Research Methods Series Vol. 5]. Los Angeles, CA: Sage.

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