Fallkonstellation

Fallkonstellation is a term used primarily in German-speaking academic contexts to describe the specific configuration of factors surrounding a single case in qualitative research. The konstellation comprises the actors involved, the setting and time frame, and the relationships, resources, and constraints that shape the case's development and interpretation. The concept emphasizes context and particularity: while findings from one Fallkonstellation may inform understanding of similar situations, they are not automatically generalizable to all cases.

In practice, researchers document the Fallkonstellation to aid analysis and transparency. Data collection may include interviews, observations, documents, and field notes designed to illuminate who interacts with whom, where events take place, and when key decisions occur. The constellation can be static or dynamic; it may change over time and influence data collection and interpretation.

Fallkonstellation is widely used in fields such as sociology, anthropology, education, psychology, and organizational studies. By cataloging the constellation, researchers can compare cases with attention to context rather than solely content, and can discuss transferability rather than broad generalization. In English-language research, the closest equivalents are often described as case constellation or case configuration.

Examples: In a school case study, the Fallkonstellation might include a specific student, the teacher, classmates, classroom practices, family background, and school policy. In a healthcare case study, it might involve patient demographics, medical history, care team, hospital setting, and treatment options.