Case Studies

Case Studies

1. Case Studies

   • Study of one person, institution or event, often over a long period of time (longitudinal)
   • Objective and systematic methods are used e.g. observations, interviews and psychological testing
   • The target person or people may be involved and also friends and family
   • Detailed information is collected in terms of depth and breadth

2. Evaluation

   • Rich, in-depth data may provide new insights
   • Instances of unusual behaviour can be investigated
   • Complex interaction of many factors are studied
   • Difficult to generalise from unique instances
   • Data may lack validity because recollection involved and researchers may lack objectivity
   • Ethical issues with confidentiality and over-testing