Involves an in-depth investigation of a specific person, group, event, or a geographic area (community, region, country). Case studies Co-design Involves gathering data using photos, graphics, drawings, music, drama, video recordings, film etc. Audio-visual methods Includes people who are affected by, or have an investment in, the data collection processes in its planning, design and execution. A case study can be small (such as an individual complaint to the NHRI) or large (such as a national inquiry). Description Method • It encourages a high level of ownership in the outcomes which can be transformative. • Brings diverse groups together to address an issue from multiple perspectives. • It is collaborative. • Can generate further questions that need to be explored. • Can result in rich and unexpected findings. • Multiple kinds of information can be collected. • Allow rich detail to be collected within a broad and flexible scope. • Allow the exploration and understanding of complex issues. • Can be useful for ‘hard-to-reach’ groups. Example: an investigation on the impact of climate change on a village community. • Collecting case study data can sometimes result in biased information, particularly when the case study focuses on an individual or small group and the participant/s know the case study is being conducted. Useful when there is the potential for a specific issue or situation to be addressed through collaboration. Example: Children with disabilities, their families, school administration, transport providers, government representatives and disability organisations come together to design methods for understanding why children living with a disability are not attending school. • It can take time and be resource heavy, requiring a higher budget and skilled staff. • It can be difficult to determine who can or should participate. • Can be time intensive. Useful when you want to gain an indepth understanding of a complex issue or situation. Example: using drawing interpretation to understand children’s experiences of family violence. Useful for gathering information from people who may be reluctant or unable to speak out. This is often the case with people who are vulnerable to or experiencing human rights abuse/s. When to use this method • Case studies are specific and therefore cannot necessarily be generalised to other situations. • Accessing the materials and equipment may be expensive. • Are potentially unobtrusive for participants. • Enable ‘insider’ experiences, thoughts and feelings to be understood. • Can be difficult to interpret and requires explanation. Disadvantages • Allow participants to share their realities in a creative way. Advantages Table 10: Key data collection methods15 59