Data Collection
This single site case study employed a multi-method triangulation approach that
included analysis of documents, semi-structured interviews, and observations. According
to Yin (2009), “a major strength of case study data collection is the opportunity to use
many different sources of evidence” (pp. 114-115).
Document analysis. Prior to the on-site visit, documents were reviewed to
establish an understanding of the institution and its context. These included three key
documents related to the case study institution that were publically available: the
Statement of Purpose (which includes the Mission, Vision, and Purpose statements); the
Strategic Plan; and the Philosophy of Education, entitled Liberation to Lead: A Liberal
Arts Education at McFeely College [pseudonym] as well as the college web site,
academic catalogue as posted online, and institutional fact book, as made available
online. The analysis of these documents served to orient the researcher to the institution,
provide some descriptive statistics about the institution, establish an understanding of
how the institution choose to state and present its own conception and orientation toward
student development publically, and to identify areas for further exploration during
interviews.