In this case study, I discuss my use of the life history approach to investigate the experience of women academics in Saudi Arabia's higher education system. I introduce the elements of the life history approach and argue for its value for empowering women. I start by explaining the steps I followed in applying this approach to my inquiry. I…

This case of biographical interviewing is part of a biographical research approach. A biographical approach concerns people's stories and experience of everyday life and has a twofold purpose: to give the researcher rich material to analyse while the interviewees have an opportunity to learn about themselves. This account presents a case study…

This case study reflects on the main method of data collection, the "Biographical Narrative Interview Method," I applied in my doctoral research, which critically analysed the influence of social class on graduate employment trajectories. It will evaluate the specific mechanics of the method and forms or approaches within the…

This case study is based on my PhD research, completed in 2010, in which I explored how families from broadly working class backgrounds constructed and understood the fact that a child of theirs had been labelled 'gifted and talented' at school. I wanted to understand this in relation to their views on giftedness and alongside their own…

This case study is in process, begun in 2008, in which I am currently collecting data for an authorized biography. It outlines what has recently been a shift in the role of researchers, especially during interviews, from one of structured questioner to a more collaborative role, that of conversational partner. Data collection methods are varied…

This case study describes the research carried out in partial fulfilment of the degree of doctor of education. The study was qualitative in nature with a phenomenological interpretive paradigm. My primary objective is to share my experience of combining life story and grounded theory research. My main objectives for undertaking the research were…

It is well documented that individuals with poor verbal, reading and writing skills face disadvantages. However, many individuals with such difficulties lead successful lives. This project investigated the ways in which ten individuals have achieved success despite difficulties with literacy and learning. The life stories are presented in digital…