This Toolkit was developed based on the findings from seven case studies. Considering how the methods and approaches worked (or did not work!) in these cases suggests ways of thinking about and tackling social values assessments in other contexts.
The case study sites were chosen based on their potential to challenge and provide insight into how the assessment methods work in practice. They are not necessarily be the most typical or common heritage scenarios but provided critical or testing cases from which transferable lessons could be derived.
The case studies were completed using two modes of investigation, determined largely by practical logistical considerations:
- the majority of activities were undertaken during focused/embedded fieldwork trips (the Arnol Blackhouse, the Caterthuns, Dun Carloway Broch, and the Hood Stones); or
- activities took place during repeated daily visits (Cables Wynd House, Kinneil House, and Sauchiehall Lane).
In all cases, at least one visit was made to the site. This first-hand experience proved to be extremely useful when engaging with communities and interpreting the research materials. In addition to this understanding of the site itself, the experience and images resulting from visiting a site contributed to other research activities.
The case study descriptions summarise each case, focusing on the research methods and approach. In all cases, even the most rapid and limited in terms of participation, the research was able to identify a range of social values and communities associated with the sites. Full details of the findings are available in the final site reports, which can be downloaded from the case study pages.
Case study site locations: