Cross-Case Analysis

An analysis that examines themes, similarities, and differences across cases is referred to as a cross-case analysis. Cross-case analysis is used when the unit of analysis is a case, which is any bounded unit, such as an individual, group, artifact, place, organization, or interaction. Cross-case analysis is often the second level of analysis associated with a case study approach. This type of analysis is used in quantitative, statistical analysis, such as in hierarchical modeling, and in qualitative analysis, such as in the constant comparative method of Glaser and Strauss' grounded theory approach. A cross-case analysis is both a way of aggregating across cases and the means for making generalizations. In evaluation, the focus of a cross-case analysis is often particular common outcomes for a number of cases. For example, an evaluation of a mathematics curriculum may have classrooms as the [Page 96]unit of analysis, or case, and the cross-case analysis might look at teacher satisfaction and student achievement across all classrooms.

Figure 1Illustration of a Visual Representation of Cross-Case Analysis (Factors most commonly identified as contributing to successful parent involvement with schools)

Cross-case analysis often includes visual displays of similarities and differences across cases, particularly in qualitative approaches (see Figure 1).