Using case study design in interdisciplinary research

Abstract

Interdisciplinary research enables the bringing together of multiple perspectives in order to explore a topic. Creativity is enhanced when these insights can complement rather than constrain each other and sit comfortably within the research design. But bringing different perspectives together is not easy. A research design that is flexible, iterative, can combine qualitative and quantitative evidence, and can be used as a framework for participatory action research assists interdisciplinary research. The case study design to conduct interdisciplinary research is described in this paper through the use of examples in the following three areas • Using case studies in participatory action research – the family violence case study; • Case studies to develop concepts – the community participation case studies; • Case studies to build evidence-base for policy and practice – the recovery oriented mental health care case studies. The paper discusses the benefits and limitations of the case study design and suggests ways to facilitate effective interdisciplinary research using this design.