Case Studies
A case study is a written description of a practical or ‘real-life' situation where there are problems to be solved or decisions to be made. An assessment task based on a case study requires you to analyse the situation and to identify and solve the problems or to discuss appropriate decisions. Your discussion needs to be based on theories, ideas and information covered in your course content.
Steps in analysing Case Studies
- Read case study details at least twice-once to get an overview and again to note main points.
- Consider the position of individuals involved-put yourself in their place.
- Identify the major underlying problems which have led to the situation.
- Think about available alternatives to the situation. What are the strengths, weaknesses, risks and benefits of each alternative?
- Select the most satisfactory solution, decision, or explanation (based on your analysis of the case and on the concepts in the course material).
- Describe how the preferred solution or decision should be implemented.
Questions to ask while analysing Case Studies
- Is the situation good, bad or neutral?
- Who are the key people and what role do they play?
- What are the central issues?
- What is likely to happen if no action is taken?
- Which circumstances can be controlled and which can not?
- What actions are necessary to resolve the problem or improve the situation?
- Can the individuals involved take these actions or will outside assistance be required?
Writing the Case Study
- Introduce the scenario with a summarised description of the situation.
- Identify, discuss and interpret the problem, based on theory and models in course content.
- Discuss alternatives for a solution to the problem, and how they might affect the people involved.
- Select the best alternative(s), giving reasons based on theory.
- Make practical and specific recommendations for implementing the selected solution.
For further information, visit our Useful Websites
