Case Studies

Question 1

What are case studies?

Answer 1

Detailed, in-depth investigations of a small group, organisation or individual.

Question 2

What are the key features of a case study?

Answer 2

Collects in-depth, detailed data. Uses multiple data collection techniques and multiple evidence sources. Best suited to rare cases.

Question 3

Name 3 strengths of a case study

Answer 3

Highly valid due to the depth of analysis within a genuine context. Validity can be improved through triangulation. Findings could simulate new research paths.

Question 4

Name 4 weaknesses of case studies

Answer 4

Low internal validity as extraneous variables can confound results due to reduced control. Exact replications of case studies are unlikely, thus unreliable. Low generalisability as the small sample is often unrepresentative. Risk of researcher bias due how involved the researcher is, making it harder to distinguish between what is objective.

Question 5

Define triangulation

Answer 5

The use of different research methods to obtain the same information.