Multisite Qualitative Policy Research: Optimizing Description and Generalizability

摘要: The classical qualitative educational research design is the case study. Studies of school life (Cusick, 1973; Wolcott, 1973), larger social forces affecting schooling (Ogbu, 1974), and efforts to promote planned change (Smith & Keith, 1971) have used data in describing a single setting. Typically, such studies emphasize in-depth description but provide weak basis for generalization other settings. last decade, however, has seen emergence new form research, one intended strengthen its ability generalize while preserving indepth description. These multisite address same question number settings using similar collection analysis procedures each They consciously seek permit cross-site comparison without necessarily sacrificing within-site understanding. Although having some roots academic sciences (e.g., see Clark, 1970; Whiting, 1963; Whiting 1975), arose primarily response pressures from federal government 1970s that could overcome weaknesses large quantitative evaluations being limited by particularism single-site Like many hybrids, it today quite robust. However, these were typically expensive endeavors done specific policy purposes, which current administration seems neither value nor feel can afford. There are two important reasons reflecting on historical development potential utility at this time. unwelcomed most scientists, hiatus commissioning level provides researchers policymakers with an opportunity consider issues detail. Further, field matured point where considerations be very fruitful. In recent years moved beyond need defend legitimacy their craft arena (Rist, 1977; Smith, 1978; Stake, 1978). Moreover, beginning acknowledge role evaluation (Cronbach, 1982; Hoaglin, Light, McPeek, Mosteller, Stoto, 1982) proper balance techniques (Cook Reichardt, 1979; Smith Louis, 1982). addition, practitioners now exhibit sufficient confidence craftsmanship begin process public self-criticism eye improving methods (Firestone Herriott, Miles, Yin, 1981). Efforts examine