CASE STUDY METHOD

BY,
ANN ROSE SUNNY
MSW 3RD SEMESTER
 CASE STUDY
Case study method is a learning technique in which a real situation or
series of events is presented to trainees or learners for their analysis
and consideration of possible solutions to the problems identified.

• A written document
• Others experiences are provided to the group
• Experiences are reflected upon and analyzed to gain new ideas.
• Learner’s own experiences, values and feelings form the basis of
analysis of others experiences.
 STEPS INVOLVED

1. Discuss the goal of the activity, what a case study is, and the use
of a case study
2. Develop a format for collecting data
3. Collect information
4. Analyze data
5. Write the case study
6. Analyze the case study process
A good case study:
1. Short
2. Tells a story
3. Describes a real situation
4. Systematic
5. Easily read
6. Keeps to the point
7. Intends to inform
8. Revealing
9. Searches out problems
10. Can teach us
 USES
1. Help group cohesiveness
2. Highlight difficult dilemmas
3. Sharpens analytical and diagnostic skills.
4. Develop problem solving skills and teamwork
5. Can be used to convey complex theoretical concepts in simple
way.
6. Allows discussions / sharing of situations which will not be
experienced.
7. Helps in creating new knowledge through a collective reflection,
analysis and synthesis.
 ADVANTAGES
1. Provide concrete subjects for discussion
2. Active participation
3. Simple
4. Used among illiterates
5. Used for cognitive learning
6. Low cost, culturally appropriate
7. Cooperation and interpersonal skills
8. Throws different approaches, alternatives and solutins to a
problem.
 DISADVANTAGES
1. Lack realism
2. Sometimes time consuming
3. Writers perception, feelings and ideologies may lead to
distortion of reality.
 REFERENCES
1. The facilitator’s toolkit, by Action for Rights of the Children
(ARC)
2. Facilitation skills training manual: a facilitator’s handbook
3. https://www.unodc.org
4. A manual for participatory training methodology in
development, society for participatory research in Asia.
5. Dr. Janakiranam. B. Training and development, Indian
textbook edition,1998.