Case Studies

CASE STUDIES

> Study of 1 person, institution or event (normally over a long period of time/ longitudinal)

> Objective and systematic methods used (e.g. observations, interviews and psychological testing)

> The target person or people may be involved, and also friends and family.

> Detailed information collected in terms of depth and breadth.

Evaluation

- Rich, in-depth data may provide new insights.

- Instances of unusual behaviour can be investigated.

- Complex interaction of many factors 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.