Longitudinal Study

What is the definition of longitudinal study?

A longitudinal study is one that follows the same sample or group over an extended period of time. A range of research methods may be used including interviews, observations and filming’s.

What is the theory that underpins a longitudinal study?

Longitudinal studies can be used by both Positivists and Interpretivists. The difference however will be in the type of method the researcher uses and the type of data they collect over that period of time. What type of data would Positivists collect to study a sample over a long period of time?  What type of methods would Interpretivists use to study a sample over a long period of time?

1) Douglas - Education Success

2) BBC Series – Up Series, 7 Up

3) Craine – Black Magic Roundabout

STRENGTHS

1) Practical - Comparisons

How are comparisons made in a longitudinal study?

2) Ethical – Informed Consent

How is informed consent gained in longitudinal studies?

3) Theoretical - Validity

How are longitudinal studies high in validity?

LIMITATIONS

1) Practical - Sample Attrition

How is sample attrition a limitation in regards to longitudinal studies?

2) Ethical – Harm to Participants

How does longitudinal studies cause harm to participants?

3) Theoretical – Unrepresentative

How are longitudinal studies unrepresentative?