Posted: May 16th, 2015

With the Critical Analysis, your task is to select and analyse a relevant case study that occurred within the past five years.

Start by asking yourself several basic preliminary questions.
1. Is this case study relevant to issues and/or crisis communications?
2. Is this case study worth critical analysis (i.e., is there sufficient scope and depth for a productive discussion)?
3. Is there room for you to develop a meaningful contribution (i.e., can your analysis actually contribute to a better understanding of the case study, or has this case study already been over–‐analysed)?

In terms of methodology, there are several points that you should consider.
1. Do you have one or two clearly defined and effective research questions or hypotheses to apply to your case study?
2. Do you have a coherent conceptual foundation (such as framing theory, IRT, SCCT, etc.) that is relevant to and helps build a strong understanding of your case study?
3. Can you support and rationalize your analysis by providing relevant data and/or by using relevant theories to back up your points and arguments?

For the Critical Analysis, You will be required to adhere to proper academic conventions. You are expected to draw on the relevant readings and course materials. Use of external readings and sources as supplementary material will be of benefit.

Assessment Criteria (Critical Analysis):
Relevant selection and coverage of a productive case study that occurred within the past five years that offers strong scope for analysis.
Ability to show a strong understanding of relevant conceptual frameworks and tools from across the course.
Ability to use relevant conceptual frameworks and tools productively to provide a thoughtful critique and/or to make specific strategic recommendations.
Fluent and coherent written expression.
Accurate and properly presented referencing.
Professional visual presentation and formatting.