Single-case Evaluation in the Public Sector Using a Combination of Approaches

Single-case evaluation has its roots in the positivist, scientific paradigm of the physical sciences. However, it has now developed as a method of evaluation that involves both quantitative and qualitative approaches, and one which can be readily applied by practitioners themselves in a variety of human services in the public sector, such as social services, health and education. This paper reports on a research project involving the use of single-case designs on an agency-wide basis within Kirklees Metropolitan Education Social Work Service, in Yorkshire, England. The practitioners found that single-case designs enabled continuous assessment of outcome data by both the clients and the practitioners, providing a model of accountability and collaborative working.