Case studies and generalizability: grounded theory and research in science education

Abstract

'Grounded theory' may be used to bridge between case studies and large-scale surveys, which enables the strengths of both to be combined in the same research programme. Starting with detailed in-depth studies of individual cases, a general model may be constructed through the key processes of 'theoretical sensitivity', 'theoretical sampling' and 'theoretical saturation'. Unlike most qualitative methodology, the grounded theory approach claims to produce testable outcomes: grounded theory is intended to lead to predictions which may be subject to traditional experimental and statistical testing. This paper describes one example of the application of a grounded theory approach to research into the learning of science, and considers the generalizability of the research results.