Case study as a research method

What is a case study?

Depending on the methodologies used to conduct a case study, they can be both a primary and secondary research method.
- For example, if the researcher opts to carry out their own interviews, surveys and observations, the case study would then be deemed a primary research method.
- However, if the researcher utilised existing literature, observation notes and ABS data for example, the case study would then be deemed secondary.
It is a detailed study of an individual, a particular event, a community group or an institution.
It is carried out over a period of time.
It will focus on one issue or aspect
Case studies usually require supporting research, as they only provide limited generalisations.
A variety of research techniques, including interview, observation and questionnaire may be used to assemble a range of information needed about the single issue.

Using information from the video above as well as your textbook (page 61), make notes on how to collect and record data for a case study.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Danger of data bias when only one person is collecting the information (can be subjective).
Data collected may not be valid for the wider population.
May be time consuming and difficult to analyse.

Read the case study from p.61 of your textbook and answer the questions on p.32 of your workbook

Explore conflict within groups by collecting and recording data from existing case studies

Work in small groups to research a conflict in the community and write one case study which shows the reader a general insight into the conflict.

Develop a case study to examine an issue that has caused conflict in a community. It can be your local or other community. Investigate:

You need to select:

The issue and community
The most appropriate research techniques to gather the information needed (primary, secondary)
An appropriate means to report or present your findings

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