Case Studies & Content Analysis*

Question 1

Case studies:

Answer 1

An in-depth investigation, description and analysis of a single individual, group, institution or event.

Question 2

Content analysis:

Answer 2

A research technique that enables the indirect study of behaviour by examining communications that people produce. For example, in texts, emails, TV, film and other media.

Question 3

Coding:

Answer 3

The stage of a content analysis in which the communication to be studied is analysed by identifying each instance of the chosen categories.

Question 4

Thematic analysis:

Answer 4

An inductive and qualitative approach to analysis that involves identifying implicit or explicit ideas within the data. Themes will often emerge once the data has been coded.

Question 5

How can case studies produce qualitative and quantitative data?

Answer 5

1. Researchers construct a case history of the individual concerned.
2. Use interviews, observations, questionnaires or a combination.
3. May be subject to experimental or psychological testing to assess what they are capable of, may produce quantitative data.

Question 6

Over what period of time are case studies collected?

Answer 6

Tend to take place over a long period of time (longitudinal) and may involve gathering additional data from family and friends.

Question 7

What is the aim of content analysis?

Answer 7

To summarise and describe this communication in a systematic way so overall conclusion conclusions can be drawn.

Question 8

Coding:

Answer 8

1. Initial stage of content analysis so there is a need to categorise this information into meaningful units.
2. They can count the number of times a word or phrase appears in the text to produce quantitative data.
3. Or count how often men and women are depicted in ‘professional’ or familial’ roles.