Content Analysis in Design and Development

Abstract

This article presents a method of content analysis for use in the early stages of a social work developmental research undertaking. The method enables researchers to carry out a systematic but expeditious review of data from preliminary trials of an innovative practice model, to identify strengths and problems in the model, and to devise ways of improving it. The method was used in the development of an innovative case management approach to problems of school failure. Tape recordings of 17 case management meetings drawn from early trials of the approach were analyzed. In addition to demonstrating the utility of the method, the application illustrated its specific techniques, such as study of a priori and informative events as a means of identifying promising and problematic aspects of the innovation as well as the use of thought experiments to modify it.

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