Pilot & Case Studies (AO1 + AO3)

Question 1

Aim of Pilot Studies

Answer 1

small scale prototypes of a study that are carried out in advance of the full research to find out if there are any problems

Question 2

Uses of Pilot Studies

Answer 2

helps researchers refine:
- instructions for ppts
- measures used (questionnaires)
- design of an experiment (timings)

ensures time/money/effort not wasted

Question 3

Examples of Pilot Studies

Answer 3

most researcher will often run a pilot study on a small, representative sample before conducting their full research
+ then make any necessary edits before rolling it out properly

Question 4

Strengths of a Pilot Study

Answer 4

• allows you to refine your experiment/observation to perfect it
• saves time/money in the long run

Question 5

Weaknesses of a Pilot Study

Answer 5

• time consuming
  bc having to run the study on a smaller scale first + then doing it again

Question 6

Aims of Case Studies

Answer 6

• to gain a detailed analysis of an individual or real life event
• rich + detailed account, often using in-depth interviews, questionnaires etc. over a period of time

Question 7

Uses of Case Studies

Answer 7

• for investigating a rare behaviour = might not warrant a larger study
• starting point for further research = generates later hypotheses

Question 8

Examples of Case Studies

Answer 8

• HM in memory, Little Albert in psychopathology (phobias), Little Hans in approaches
• detailed accounts of individuals w rare behaviours which helped generate later theories

Question 9

Strengths of a Case Study

Answer 9

• offers unique insights that can be overlooked otherwise
• case studies allow us opportunity to look at behaviour it would be unethical to create in experiments

Question 10

Weaknesses of a Case Study

Answer 10

• difficult to generalise findings as usually only studying one person or small group of ppl = low external validity
• often subjective and prone to researcher bias (e.g. Little Hans - unfalsifiable ideas)