Doing Classic Grounded Theory (CGT) Study in Information Systems

Abstract

Classic Grounded Theory methodology (CGTM) is gaining importance as a method for theory building in Information Systems (IS). CGTM is most-often cited by IS researchers, but it has been suggested that many CGTM studies are not following the tenets of the methodology. This paper provides a worked example of a classic grounded theory (CGT) in IS research. The rationale of this paper is based on the fact that most of IS literature reveals conflict in the understanding and use of CGT. As the authors of this paper and as practising classic grounded theorists, I feel that the nature of CGTM is often misunderstood and its label abused in different ways. Therefore, in this paper I provide a model for practice, to connect IS researchers with a classic grounded theory methodology, and to increase the quality of CGT research published in the IS literature. The paper describes sampling, data collection, data analysis, and interpretation. The paper explains how these steps are consistent with CGTM, and show how they related to one another. We provide model to help the e-learning providers researchers interpret the often fuzzy definitions found in classic grounded theory texts and share our experiences and lessons learning during this research. By employing CGTM rigorously, IS researchers can better design and justify their methods, and produce high quality findings that will be more useful to IS researchers, professionals and the community.