Case Studies
Sociology: AQA GCSE, topic 6.1.12
Case Studies
Case studies
- A case study is a description and recording of a specific group or institution which is representative of society.
- Case studies make it possible to make generalisations.
- Sometimes, cases studies that are not typical of the population are used which can provide valuable insight into different social aspects of life.
Using case studies
- Case studies are seen as ideal research methods in some instances as they utilise many different research methods.
- For example, interviews, questionnaires and observations.
Appropriate use
- They are seen as appropriate when:
- It is acceptable to use mixed methods.
- An in-depth research is needed.
- The researcher wants to gauge the impact of relationships or processes on an outcome.
- ‘Real life’ situations need to be monitored.
Advantages
- Triangulation of data as the researcher can use mixed research methods.
- Valid data since the data collected are from ‘real life’ situations.
- Case studies help the development of grounded theory (making theories through gathering and analysing data).
- Case studies can be tailored to the needs of the current research.
Disadvantages
- It is hard to make generalisations by using only one case study.
- Observer effect might occur, where the people involved change their behaviour to align with what the researcher expects from them as they are aware that they are being monitored.
- Practical problems may arise such as access as the gatekeeper might not allow it.
Disadvantages cont.
- Ethical issues may arise such as lack of informed consent.
- Case studies may be low in reliability as they might be unique in their findings and criticised by other sociologists later.
Test yourself on Case Studies
A disadvantage of using case studies is that the participants involved may alter their behaviour since they are aware that they are being monitored. This is known as what?