case studies

• What is a case study?

  A description of a specific group or institution
• Why are case studies useful in research?

  They allow for generalisations to be made
• What can atypical case studies provide?

  Valuable insight into different social aspects
• What research methods are utilized in case studies?

  • Interviews
  • Questionnaires
  • Observations
• When are case studies considered ideal research methods?

  When they utilize many different research methods
• When is it appropriate to use case studies?

  • Mixed methods are acceptable
  • In-depth research is needed
  • Gauging impact of relationships or processes
  • Monitoring real-life situations
• What is one advantage of using mixed research methods in case studies?

  Triangulation of data
• Why is data from case studies considered valid?

  Data is collected from real-life situations
• How do case studies contribute to grounded theory?

  They help develop theories through data analysis
• How can case studies be tailored?

  They can be adjusted to current research needs
• What is a disadvantage of using only one case study?

  Hard to make generalisations
• What is the observer effect in case studies?

  Participants change behavior due to observation
• What practical problem might arise in case studies?

  Access issues due to gatekeepers
• What ethical issue may arise in case studies?

  Lack of informed consent
• Why might case studies be low in reliability?

  Findings may be unique and criticized
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of case studies?

  Advantages:

  • Triangulation of data
  • Valid data from real situations
  • Development of grounded theory
  • Tailored to research needs

  
  

  Disadvantages:

  • Hard to generalize from one case
  • Observer effect may occur
  • Practical access issues
  • Ethical issues like lack of consent
  • Low reliability due to unique findings