ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces some of the general uses of qualitative methods in conducting policy research, with a focus on conducting case studies and historical research. Policy activity is a socially constructed endeavor; therefore, policy actions both shape and are shaped by the assumptions, values, beliefs, and goals of those who develop, implement, and are affected by them. Researchers doing qualitative policy research can spend considerable time in the setting observing, interviewing, and writing field notes. Descriptive cases focus on describing a policy phenomenon, such as the manner in which a policy was developed or implemented. Studies of multiple cases are becoming more widely used in policy and organizational research. Yin suggested three important principles guiding the collection of data in case studies: focusing on multiple sources of information, creating a database for the case, and maintaining a chain of evidence.
