Comparative Research Methods Questions Medium
The process of selecting cases in comparative research involves several steps to ensure the validity and reliability of the study. These steps include defining the research question, identifying the population of cases, sampling, and determining the criteria for case selection.
Firstly, the researcher needs to clearly define the research question or hypothesis they want to investigate. This helps in determining the purpose and scope of the study, as well as the variables and concepts to be compared.
Next, the researcher needs to identify the population of cases that will be included in the study. The population can be defined based on geographical, temporal, or thematic criteria. For example, if the research question is about the impact of democratic transitions in Latin America, the population of cases would include countries in that region that have undergone such transitions.
Once the population is identified, the researcher needs to decide on the sampling strategy. There are different sampling techniques available, such as random sampling, purposive sampling, or snowball sampling. The choice of sampling technique depends on the research question, available resources, and feasibility.
After selecting the sampling technique, the researcher needs to determine the criteria for case selection. These criteria can be based on specific characteristics, such as the level of democracy, economic development, or cultural factors. The criteria should be relevant to the research question and help in comparing the cases effectively.
Once the criteria are established, the researcher can start selecting the cases that meet these criteria. This can involve collecting data on each potential case and assessing whether it fulfills the criteria. The researcher may also need to consider practical constraints, such as data availability or accessibility.
It is important to note that the process of case selection should be transparent and replicable. The researcher should document the reasons for including or excluding specific cases, as well as any potential biases or limitations in the selection process.
In conclusion, the process of selecting cases in comparative research involves defining the research question, identifying the population of cases, sampling, and determining the criteria for case selection. This process ensures that the selected cases are relevant to the research question and allows for valid and reliable comparisons to be made.