Case studies and Observations Flashcards
Case study
An in depth investigation into one person or a group of people. It typically involves the use of a range of research methods and is suitable for the study of rare and unique individuals and groups.
Strengths of a case study
It provides the most in-depth information about a particular individual.
Can be used in situations where it would be unethical to set up an experiment
Weaknesses of a case study
They cannot be repeated to check reliability as every case is unique
The findings may not be applicable to other people and so lack generalisability
The researcher may become to involved and lose objectivity and interpret their findings differently from others; researcher bias
Observation
A research method that involves watching and recording behaviour of people in certain situations or environments.
Naturalistic observation
An observation conducted in an everyday environment where the behaviour being studied is normally seen. Suitable for studying everyday behaviour
Controlled or structured observation
An observation carried out in a laboratory or controlled environment where a researcher may stage or set something up in order to encourage the behaviour they’re trying to investigate.
Overt observation
An observation conducted with the participants having knowledge that they are being observed
Covert observation
An observation where participants are unaware they are being observed. Overt often happens in structured observations and naturalistic observations can be overt or covert.
Inter-rater reliability
When more than one observer codes behaviour and their results are compared to check for agreement
Observer bias
When an observer interprets the observed behaviour according to their own view.
Strengths of observations
The reliability of the observation can be used to check inter-rater reliability
Weaknesses of observations
Observations can be unreliable if certain measures aren’t in place.
Observations can lack validity because of observer bias
There may be ethical issues raised as covert observations raise the issue of lack of consent
