CASE STUDIES Flashcards
1
Q
What are case studies?
A
- A research method which involves an in depth examination of a paticular person, group or event.
- Within a real life context.
2
Q
What is triangulation?
A
- The use of different techniques to study the same phenomenon.
- If the technqiues produce the same results, the results are considered valid.
Observations, interviews
3
Q
What type of data do case studies collect?
A
- Qualititative data (narrative descriptions)
- Quanitative data: The subjects may be subject to experimental or psychological testing to assess them.
4
Q
Name some features of case studies
A
- The person(s) are chosen for a special or rare characteristic.
- Allows for the opportunity to study a condition that would be unethical, or impossible to study otherwise.
- Can be longitudinal (to track changes, improvements, declines)
- Different sources of evidence, and techniques may be used.
5
Q
What are some strengths of case studies?
A
-
Highly valid: A person(s) are explored in great depth and within a genuine context. Producing detailed, nuanaced understanding.
2.Psychological insight: Enables researchers to explore apsects of human thinking/ behaviour that would be impossible, impractical, or unethical to study other wise. - Holistic approach: As they explore multiple factors within an persons context and history and how these varibles may interact. Also, different sources of evidence and technqiues are used.
6
Q
Weaknesses of case studies
A
- Objectivity: May be compromised if the research develops subjective feelings (rapport) which introduces a bias to the interepretation of data.
- Generalisbility: Findings may be specfic to the research context.
- Reliability: The unique nature of each case makes replication challenging. (also many extraneous varibles)
- Ethics: Level of detail presents ethical threats (privacy, confidentiality)
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