David Kime [#8], On Creative Case Studies

 Perhaps, one of the most notable aspects of Goedde's case study is just how personal it feels. Goedde evidently has established a rapport with Lorraine, which plays a very dominant role in how her story unfolds for us, as readers. I have no personal qualms with this style, since, in the way that it is presented, the case study gives us a little more insight into both writer and subject. In fact, I don't believe that a strictly objective view of the situation (i.e., an "academic" or scientific approach) would have made much sense. In fact, the case study would seem more clinical and wouldn't carry the weight of human experience that some of the more "creative" elements allow. 

That said, I cannot say that this is always the most appropriate form for a case study. In fact, I might even say that as an anecdote it's interesting and says quite a bit about the author as tutor, but it fails to really push us as readers in any direction. It sets up the next steps, but leaves open the question, "What are we supposed to get out of this?" The article seems rather fun and friendly on the surface, and I can understand its goals as a single study, but what is its argument? That academic writing can be creative? That we should approach academia with more creativity? 

I am reminded of a comment that Lucie made during class the other day, and I am wondering if the real issue at hand is how the author presents "creative" versus "academic". While the author seems to consider the fact that these two things can and should work in tandem, the piece is written as if they are at odds with one another. I feel as though there is more to these styles than what we're given. That personal element that makes this piece what it is can inspire a sense of how a tutor could build rapport enough with a student to have such candid conversations. We have a personal understanding of a student, a case study of their work together (or rather their regular arguments), rather than a presentation of a learning opportunity. ... And maybe that's my own bias coming in relative to my understanding of academic writing. 

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