in case study method which interview is mostly used

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Writing A Case Study

Types Of Case Study

Understand the 7 Types of Case Study Here

Understanding Case Studies

Case studies are a type of research methodology. Case study research designs examine subjects, projects, or organizations to provide an analysis based on the evidence.

It allows you to get insight into what causes any subject’s decisions and actions. This makes case studies a great way for students to develop their research skills.

A case study focuses on a single project for an extended period, which allows students to explore the topic in depth.

What are the Types of Case Study?

Multiple case studies are used for different purposes. The main purpose of case studies is to analyze problems within the boundaries of a specific organization, environment, or situation.

Many aspects of a case study such as data collection and analysis, qualitative research questions, etc. are dependent on the researcher and what the study is looking to address.

Here are different types of case study analysis methods:

Illustrative Case Study

Exploratory case study, cumulative case study, critical instance case study, descriptive case study, intrinsic case study, instrumental case study.

Let’s take a look at the detailed description of each type of case study with examples.

An illustrative case study is used to examine a familiar case to help others understand it. It is one of the main types of case studies in research methodology and is primarily descriptive.

In this type of case study, usually, one or two instances are used to explain what a situation is like.

Here is an example to help you understand it better:

Illustrative Case Study Example

An exploratory case study is usually done before a larger-scale research. These types of case studies are very popular in the social sciences like political science and primarily focus on real-life contexts and situations.

This method is useful in identifying research questions and methods for a large and complex study.

Let’s take a look at this example to help you have a better understanding:

Exploratory Case Study Example

A cumulative case study is one of the main types of case study in qualitative research. It is used to collect information from different sources at different times.

This case study aims to summarize past studies without spending additional time and money on new investigations.

Let’s take a look at the example below:

Cumulative Case Study Example

Critical instances case studies are used to determine the cause and consequence of an event.

The main reason for this type of case study is to investigate one or more sources with unique interests and sometimes with no interest in general.

Take a look at this example below:

Critical Instance Case Study Example

When you have a hypothesis, you can design a descriptive study. It aims to find connections between the subject being studied and a theory.

After making these connections, the study can be concluded. The results of the descriptive case study will usually suggest how to develop a theory further.

This example can help you understand the concept better:

Descriptive Case Study Example

Intrinsic studies are more commonly used in psychology, healthcare, or social work. So, if you were looking for types of case studies in sociology, or types of case studies in social research, this is it.

The focus of intrinsic studies is on the individual. The aim of such studies is not only to understand the subject better but also their history and how they interact with their environment.

Here is an example to help you understand;

Intrinsic Case Study Example

This type of case study is mostly used in qualitative research. In an instrumental case study, the specific case is selected to provide information about the research question.

It offers a lens through which researchers can explore complex concepts, theories, or generalizations.

Take a look at the example below to have a better understanding of the concepts:

Instrumental Case Study Example

Review some case study examples to help you understand how a specific case study is conducted.

Types of Subjects of Case Study

In general, there are 5 types of subjects that case studies address. Every case study fits into the following subject categories.

Person: This type of study focuses on one subject or individual and can use several research methods to determine the outcome.
Group: This type of study takes into account a group of individuals. This could be a group of friends, coworkers, or family.
Location: The main focus of this type of study is the place. It also takes into account how and why people use the place.
Organization: This study focuses on an organization or company. This could also include the company employees or people who work in an event at the organization.
Event: This type of study focuses on a specific event. It could be societal or cultural and examines how it affects the surroundings.

Types Of Case Study Designs

Case study designs determine how a case will be structured and researched. They vary depending on the focus, purpose, and method used.

Below are the common types of case study designs:

Single-Case Design: Focuses on one specific case to explore it in-depth and gain detailed insights. Ideal for unique or rare cases.
Multiple-Case Design: Involves studying several cases simultaneously or sequentially to draw comparisons and generalize findings.
Longitudinal Case Design: Involves studying the same case over an extended period to observe changes and developments.
Retrospective Case Design: Looks back at historical cases to analyze outcomes and extract lessons or patterns.
Embedded Case Design: Includes multiple sub-cases or units of analysis within the main case, offering more detailed insights.

Types Of Case Study Interviews

Interviews are a key method used in case studies to collect in-depth information. Different types of interviews are used based on the goals of the study and the nature of the case.

Here are the types:

Structured Interviews: Pre-set questions asked in a consistent manner to each interviewee, useful for collecting comparable data.
Semi-Structured Interviews: A mix of pre-set questions and open-ended conversations, allowing flexibility while maintaining a focus.
Unstructured Interviews: An open conversation where the interviewer explores topics spontaneously, allowing interviewees to express their perspectives freely.
Focus Group Interviews: Conducted with a group of people to gain collective insights, often used to explore shared experiences or opinions.
In-depth interviews: Extended, detailed interviews that explore a respondent's thoughts, beliefs, or experiences in great detail.

Types Of Case Study Research Designs

Research designs in case studies outline the plan for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. The design chosen depends on the research question and the case's complexity.

Here are the main types:

Exploratory Research Design: Used when there is limited information about a problem, focusing on exploration before forming conclusions.
Descriptive Research Design: Aims to describe the characteristics or behavior of a case without determining cause-effect relationships.
Explanatory Research Design: Seeks to explain why things happen, exploring cause-effect relationships within the case.
Comparative Research Design: Involves comparing multiple cases to find similarities, differences, or trends that can lead to broader conclusions.
Embedded Research Design: Focuses on studying multiple layers or sub-units within a single case to provide a comprehensive analysis.

Benefits of Case Study for Students

Here's a closer look at the multitude of benefits students can have with case studies:

Real-world Application

Case studies serve as a crucial link between theory and practice. By immersing themselves in real-world scenarios, students can apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.

Critical Thinking Skills

Analyzing case studies demands critical thinking and informed decision-making. Students cultivate the ability to evaluate information, identify key factors, and develop well-reasoned solutions – essential skills in both academic and professional contexts.

Enhanced Problem-solving Abilities

Case studies often present complex problems that require creative and strategic solutions. Engaging with these challenges refines students' problem-solving skills, encouraging them to think innovatively and develop effective approaches.

Holistic Understanding

Going beyond theoretical concepts, case studies provide a holistic view of a subject. Students gain insights into the multifaceted aspects of a situation, helping them connect the dots and understand the broader context.

Exposure to Diverse Perspectives

Case studies often encompass a variety of industries, cultures, and situations. This exposure broadens students' perspectives, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the world and the challenges faced by different entities.

So there you have it!

We have explored different types of case studies and their examples. Case studies act as the tools to understand and deal with the many challenges and opportunities around us.

Case studies are being used more and more in colleges and universities to help students understand how a hypothetical event can influence a person, group, or organization in real life.

Not everyone can handle the case study writing assignment easily. It is even scary to think that your time and work could be wasted if you don't do the case study paper right.

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Besides, if you're wondering, c an I pay someone to do my essay , the answer is yes! Let us worry about your assignment, while you get your important tasks done with peace of mind!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common types of case study in psychology.

In psychology, case studies help us understand individual behavior and mental processes. One common type is the Intrinsic Case Study, which focuses on one specific person's case that is interesting on its own. It looks closely at this person's life to provide important insights into psychological issues.

What are 4 types of case study in sociology?

In sociology, case studies are used to explore how society works. Here are four common types:

Intrinsic Case Study: Studies a specific case that is interesting on its own without trying to generalize the findings.
Instrumental Case Study: Looks at one case to understand a bigger social issue and see how the findings might apply to other cases.
Collective Case Study: Studies multiple cases together to find patterns and themes across different groups.
Explanatory Case Study: Explains why certain social behaviors or problems happen, focusing on the causes and effects within specific communities.

These types help sociologists learn about complex social issues and how people interact in different settings.

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Home » Case Study – Methods, Examples and Guide

Case Study – Methods, Examples and Guide

Table of Contents

A case study is an in-depth examination of a single case or a few selected cases within a real-world context. Case study research is widely used across disciplines such as psychology, sociology, business, and education to explore complex phenomena in detail. Unlike other research methods that aim for broad generalizations, case studies offer an intensive understanding of a specific individual, group, event, or situation.

A case study is a research method that involves a detailed examination of a subject (the “case”) within its real-life context. Case studies are used to explore the causes of underlying principles, behaviors, or outcomes, providing insights into the nuances of the studied phenomena. This approach allows researchers to capture a wide array of factors and interactions that may not be visible in other methods, such as experiments or surveys.

Key Characteristics of Case Studies :

Focus on a specific case, individual, or event.
Provide in-depth analysis and contextual understanding.
Useful for exploring new or complex phenomena.
Generate rich qualitative data that contributes to theory building.

Types of Case Studies

Case studies can be classified into different types depending on their purpose and methodology. Common types include exploratory , descriptive , explanatory , intrinsic , and instrumental case studies.

1. Exploratory Case Study

Definition : An exploratory case study investigates an area where little is known. It helps to identify questions, variables, and hypotheses for future research.

Characteristics :

Often used in the early stages of research.
Focuses on discovery and hypothesis generation.
Helps clarify research questions.

Example : Examining how remote work affects team dynamics in an organization that has recently transitioned to a work-from-home model.

2. Descriptive Case Study

Definition : A descriptive case study provides a detailed account of a particular case, describing it within its context. The goal is to provide a complete and accurate depiction without necessarily exploring underlying causes.

Focuses on describing the case in detail.
Provides comprehensive data to paint a clear picture of the phenomenon.
Helps understand “what” happened without delving into “why.”

Example : Documenting the process and outcomes of a corporate restructuring within a company, describing the actions taken and their immediate effects.

3. Explanatory Case Study

Definition : An explanatory case study aims to explain the cause-and-effect relationships of a particular case. It focuses on understanding “how” or “why” something happened.

Useful for causal analysis.
Aims to provide insights into mechanisms and processes.
Often used in social sciences and psychology to study behavior and interactions.

Example : Investigating why a school’s test scores improved significantly after implementing a new teaching method.

4. Intrinsic Case Study

Definition : An intrinsic case study focuses on a unique or interesting case, not because of what it represents but because of its intrinsic value. The researcher’s interest lies in understanding the case itself.

Driven by the researcher’s interest in the particular case.
Not meant to generalize findings to broader contexts.
Focuses on gaining a deep understanding of the specific case.

Example : Studying a particularly successful start-up to understand its founder’s unique leadership style.

5. Instrumental Case Study

Definition : An instrumental case study examines a particular case to gain insights into a broader issue. The case serves as a tool for understanding something more general.

The case itself is not the focus; rather, it is a vehicle for exploring broader principles or theories.
Helps apply findings to similar situations or cases.
Useful for theory testing or development.

Example : Studying a well-known patient’s therapy process to understand the general principles of effective psychological treatment.

Methods of Conducting a Case Study

Case studies can involve various research methods to collect data and analyze the case comprehensively. The primary methods include interviews , observations , document analysis , and surveys .

1. Interviews

Definition : Interviews allow researchers to gather in-depth information from individuals involved in the case. These interviews can be structured, semi-structured, or unstructured, depending on the study’s goals.

Develop a list of open-ended questions aligned with the study’s objectives.
Conduct interviews with individuals directly or indirectly involved in the case.
Record, transcribe, and analyze the responses to identify key themes.

Example : Interviewing employees, managers, and clients in a company to understand the effects of a new business strategy.

2. Observations

Definition : Observations involve watching and recording behaviors, actions, and events within the case’s natural setting. This method provides first-hand data on interactions, routines, and environmental factors.

Define the behaviors and interactions to observe.
Conduct observations systematically, noting relevant details.
Analyze patterns and connections in the observed data.

Example : Observing interactions between teachers and students in a classroom to evaluate the effectiveness of a teaching method.

3. Document Analysis

Definition : Document analysis involves reviewing existing documents related to the case, such as reports, emails, memos, policies, or archival records. This provides historical and contextual data that can complement other data sources.

Identify relevant documents that offer insights into the case.
Systematically review and code the documents for themes or categories.
Compare document findings with data from interviews and observations.

Example : Analyzing company policies, performance reports, and emails to study the process of implementing a new organizational structure.

Definition : Surveys are structured questionnaires administered to a group of people involved in the case. Surveys are especially useful for gathering quantitative data that supports or complements qualitative findings.

Design survey questions that align with the research goals.
Distribute the survey to a sample of participants.
Analyze the survey responses, often using statistical methods.

Example : Conducting a survey among customers to measure satisfaction levels after a service redesign.

Case Study Guide: Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: define the research questions.

Clearly outline what you aim to understand or explain.
Define specific questions that the case study will answer, such as “What factors led to X outcome?”

Step 2: Select the Case(s)

Choose a case (or cases) that are relevant to your research question.
Ensure that the case is feasible to study, accessible, and likely to yield meaningful data.

Step 3: Determine the Data Collection Methods

Decide which methods (e.g., interviews, observations, document analysis) will best capture the information needed.
Consider combining multiple methods to gather rich, well-rounded data.

Step 4: Collect Data

Gather data using your chosen methods, following ethical guidelines such as informed consent and confidentiality.
Take comprehensive notes and record interviews or observations when possible.

Step 5: Analyze the Data

Organize the data into themes, patterns, or categories.
Use qualitative or quantitative analysis methods, depending on the nature of the data.
Compare findings across data sources to identify consistencies and discrepancies.

Step 6: Interpret Findings

Draw conclusions based on the analysis, relating the findings to your research questions.
Consider alternative explanations and assess the generalizability of your findings.

Step 7: Report Results

Write a detailed report that presents your findings and explains their implications.
Discuss the limitations of the case study and potential directions for future research.

Examples of Case Study Applications

Objective : To understand the success factors of a high-growth tech company.
Methods : Interviews with key executives, analysis of internal reports, and customer satisfaction surveys.
Outcome : Insights into unique management practices and customer engagement strategies.
Objective : To examine the impact of project-based learning on student engagement.
Methods : Observations in classrooms, interviews with teachers, and analysis of student performance data.
Outcome : Evidence of increased engagement and enhanced critical thinking skills among students.
Objective : To explore the effectiveness of a new mental health intervention.
Methods : Interviews with patients, assessment of clinical outcomes, and reviews of therapist notes.
Outcome : Identification of factors that contribute to successful treatment outcomes.
Objective : To assess the impact of urban development on local wildlife.
Methods : Observations of wildlife, analysis of environmental data, and interviews with residents.
Outcome : Findings showing the effects of urban sprawl on species distribution and biodiversity.

Case studies are valuable for in-depth exploration and understanding of complex phenomena within their real-life contexts. By using methods such as interviews, observations, document analysis, and surveys, researchers can obtain comprehensive data and generate insights that are specific to the case. Whether exploratory, descriptive, or explanatory, case studies offer unique opportunities for understanding and discovering practical applications for theories.

Baxter, P., & Jack, S. (2008). Qualitative Case Study Methodology: Study Design and Implementation for Novice Researchers . The Qualitative Report, 13(4), 544–559.
Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2017). Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Approaches (4th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Stake, R. E. (1995). The Art of Case Study Research . SAGE Publications.
Yin, R. K. (2018). Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods (6th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Thomas, G. (2016). How to Do Your Case Study (2nd ed.). SAGE Publications.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Research Methods
Post last modified: 26 August 2021
Reading time: 36 mins read
Post category: Research Methodology

in case study method which interview is mostly used

4 Research Methods

4 Major Research Methods are:

Observations

Schedule and questionnaire, case study method.

Table of Content

1.1.1 Types of Interview
1.1.2 Features of Interviews
1.1.3 Essentials for an Effective Interview
1.1.4 Advantages of Interviews
1.1.5 Disadvantages of Interviews
1.1.6 Interview Process
1.1.7 Problems Faced in an Interview
1.2.1 Characteristics of Observation Method
1.2.2 Types of Observation
1.2.3 Prerequisites of Observation
1.2.4 Advantages of observations
1.2.5 Disadvantages of observations
1.2.6 Use of observation in business research
1.3.1 Importance of questionnaires
1.3.2 Types of Questionnaire
1.3.3 Advantages of Questionnaires
1.3.4 Disadvantages of Questionnaires
1.3.5 Preparation of an Effective Questionnaire
1.3.6 Difference between schedule and questionnaire
1.4.1 Assumptions of case study method
1.4.2 Advantages of Case Study Method
1.4.3 Disadvantages of Case Study Method
1.4.4 Case study as a method of business research

Interviewing is a very effective method of data collection. It is a systematic and objective conversation between an investigator and respondent for collecting relevant data for a specific research study. Along with conversation, learning about the gestures, facial expressions and environmental conditions of a respondent are also very important.

Generally, interview collects a wide range of data from factual demographic data to highly personal and intimate information relating to a person’s opinions, attitudes, values and beliefs, past experience and future intentions.

The interview method is very important in the collection of data from the respondent who is less educated or illiterate. Personal interview is more feasible when the area covered for survey is compact. Probing is a very important part of an interview.

Types of Interview

The following are the various types of interviews:

Structured or directive interview

In this type of interview, the investigator goes to the respondent with a detailed schedule. Some questions in same sequence are asked from all respondents.

Unstructured or non-directive interview

In this type of interview, the respondent is encouraged to give his honest opinion on a given topic without or with minimum help from others.

Focused interview

This is a semi-structured interview where the respondent shares the effect of the experience to the given conditions with the researcher or investigator. It is conducted with those respondents only who have prior experience of conditions given by the investigator.

Analysis of the attitude, emotional feelings for the situations under study is main purpose behind conducting these interviews. A set of fix questions may not be required in this interview but a relevant topic is required which is known to the respondent.

Clinical interview

While a focussed interview is concerned with effects of specific experience, clinical interviews are concerned with broad underlying feelings or motivations or the course of the individual’s life experiences with reference to the research study. It encourages the interviewee to share his experience freely.

Depth interview

To analyse or study the respondent’s emotions, opinions, etc., depth interviews are conducted. This kind of interview aims to collect intensive data about individuals, especially their opinions.

It is a lengthy process to get unbiased data from the respondent. Interviewers should avoid advising or showing this agreement. Instead, the investigator has to motivate the respondent to answer the questions.

Features of Interviews

The following are some of the features of interviews

The interviewer and the respondent are the participants in any interview. They both are unknown to each other and so it is important for an interviewer to introduce himself first to the respondent.
An interview has a beginning and a termination point in the relationship between the participants.
Interview is not a mere casual conversational exchange. It has a specific purpose of collecting data which is relevant to the study.
Interview is a mode of obtaining a verbal response to questions to put verbally. It is not always face to face.
Success of interview depends on the interviewer and respondent and how they perceive each other.
It is not a standardized process.

Essentials for an Effective Interview

The following are the requirements for a successful interview:

Data availability : The respondent should have complete knowledge of the information required for specific study.
Role perception : The interviewer and the respondent should be aware of their roles in the interview process. The respondent should be clear about the topic or questions which have to be answered by him. Similarly, it is the responsibility of the interviewer to make the respondent comfortable by introducing himself first. The investigator should not affect the interview situation through subjective attitude and argumentation.
Respondent’s motivation : The respondent can hesitate to answer the questions. In this case, the approach and skills of the interviewer are very important as he has to motivate the respondent to answer or express himself.

Advantages of Interviews

The following are the advantages of the interview method:

In-depth and detailed information is collected.
The interviewer tries to improve the responses and quality of data received.
He can control the conditions in favour of the research study.
Interviews help in gathering supplementary information which can be helpful to the study.
Interviews use special scoring devices, visuals and materials to improve the quality of data or information collected.
Interviews use observation and probing by the interviewer to see the accuracy and dependability of given data by the respondent.
Interviews are flexible in nature.

Disadvantages of Interviews

The following are the disadvantages of interviews:

Interviews consume more time and cost.
The respondent’s responses can be affected by the way the interviewer asks the questions.
The respondent may refuse to answer some personal questions which are relevant to the study.
Recording and coding of data during the interview process may sometimes be difficult for the interviewer.
The interviewer may not have good communication or interactive skills.

Interview Process

The following are the stages in an interview process:

Preparation

The interviewer needs to make certain preparations to make an interview successful. The interviewer should keep all the copies of the schedule or guide ready. They need to prepare the lists of respondents with their addresses, contact number and meeting time.

They should prepare themselves with all the approaches and skills required to conduct an interview. They should prepare themselves to face all adverse situations during the interview. If the interviewer is not doing such planning, they can fail to collect the right information from respondent.

Introduction

The interviewer is not known to the respondent. Therefore, the interviewer must introduce himself first to every respondent. In the introduction, the interviewer should tell about himself, his organization details and the purpose of his visit.

If the interviewer knows someone who the respondent is familiar with, then he can use that person’s reference to make the respondent more comfortable. The following are some steps which help in motivating the respondent:

The interviewer should introduce himself with a smiling face and always greet the respondent.
He should identify and call the respondent by name.
He must describe how the respondent is selected.
He should explain the purpose and usefulness of the study.
He should focus on the value of the respondent’s cooperation.

Developing report

It is important for an interviewer to develop a rapport with the respondent before starting the interview. By doing this, a cordial relationship is established between them. It helps the interviewer understand the inherent nature of the respondent which helps in building a rapport and the discussion can be started with some general topic or with the help of a person who is commonly known to both of them.

Carrying the interview forward

After establishing a rapport, the skills of the interviewer are required to carry the interview forward. The following are some guidelines that should be followed:

Start the interview in an informal and natural manner.
Ask all the questions in the same sequence as in the schedule.
Do not take an answer for granted. It is not necessary that an interviewee will know all answers or will give all answers. The interviewer has to create interest for answering questions.
The objective of the question should be known to the interviewer to ensure that the correct information is collected for research study.
Explain the question if it has not been understood properly by the respondent.
Listen to the respondent carefully with patience.
Never argue with the respondent.
Show your concern and interest in the information given by the respondent.
Do not express your own opinion for answers of any question in the schedule.
Continue to motivate the respondent.
If the respondent is unable to frame the right answer, the interviewer should help him by providing alternate questions.
Ensure that the conversation does not go off track.
If the respondent is unable to answer a particular question due to some reasons, drop the question at that moment. This question can be asked indirectly later on.

Recording the interview

Responses should be recorded in the same sequence as they are given by the respondent. The response should be recorded at the same time as it is generated. It may be very difficult to remember all the responses later for recording them.

Recording can be done in writing but there may be some problems if the writing skills of an interviewer are not good. Hence, the use of electronic devices like tape recorders can help in this purpose. The interviewer should also record all his probes and other comments on the schedule, but they should be in brackets to ensure that they are set off from response.

Closing the interview

After the interview is over, the interviewer must thank the respondent for his cooperation. He must collect all the papers before leaving the respondent. If the respondent wants to know the result of the survey, the interviewer must ensure that the results are mailed to him when they are ready.

At the end, the interviewer must edit the schedule to check that all the questions have been asked and recorded. Also, abbreviations in recording should be replaced by full words.

Problems Faced in an Interview

The following are some of the main problems faced in an interview:

Inadequate response

Kahn and Cannel laid down five principal symptoms of inadequate response. They are given as follows:

Partial response in which the respondent gives a relevant but incomplete answer.
Non-response in which the respondent remains silent or refuses to answer the questions.
Irrelevant response in which the respondent’s answer is not relevant to the question asked.
Inaccurate response in which the reply is biased.
Verbalized response problem which arises because of the respondent’s failure to understand the question.

Interviewer’s biasness, refusal, incapability to understand questions

An interviewer can affect the performance of an interview with his own responses and suggestions. Such biasing factors can never be overcome fully, but their effect can be reduced by training and development techniques.

Non response

Some respondents out of the total respondents fail to respond to the schedule. The reasons for this non response can be non availability, refusal, incapability to understand questions, etc.

Non availability

Some respondents are not available at their places at the time of call. This could be because of odd timings or working hours.

Some respondents refuse to answer the questions. There can be many reasons for this, such as language, odd hours, sickness, no interest in such studies, etc.

Inaccessibility

Some respondents can be inaccessible because of various reasons such as migration, touring job, etc.

Observation can be defined as viewing or seeing. Observation means specific viewing with the purpose of gathering the data for a specific research study. Observation is a classical method of scientific study. It is very important in any research study as it is an effective method for data collection.

Characteristics of Observation Method

The following are the characteristics of the observation method of data collection:

Physical and mental activity : Eyes observe so many things in our surroundings but our focus or attention is only on data which is relevant to research study.
Observation is selective : It is very difficult for a researcher to observe everything in his surroundings. He only observes the data which is purposive for his research study and meets with the scope of his study. The researcher ignores all the data which is not relevant to the study.
Observation is purposive and not casual : Observation is purposive as it is relevant to a particular study. The purpose of observation is to collect data for the research study. It focusses on human behaviour which occurs in a social phenomenon. It analyses the relationship of different variables in a specific context.
Accuracy and standardization : Observation of pertinent data should be accurate and standardized for its applications.

Types of Observation

Different concepts define the classification of observations.

With respect to an investigator’s role, observation may be:

Participant observation

Non-participant observation

With respect to the method of observation, it can be classified into the following:

Direct observation

Indirect observation

With reference to the control on the system to be observed, observation can be classified into the following:

Controlled observation

Uncontrolled observation

In participant type of observation, the observer is an active participant of the group or process. He participates as well as observes as a part of a phenomenon;

For example, to study the behaviour of management students towards studying and understanding marketing management, the observer or researcher has to participate in the discussion with students without telling them about the observation or purpose. When respondents are unaware of observations, then only their natural interest can be studied.

In non-participant observation, the observer does not participate in the group process. He acknowledges the behaviour of the group without telling the respondents. It requires a lot of skills to record observations in an unnoticeable manner.

In direct observation, the observer and researcher personally observe all the happenings of a process or an event when the event is happening. In this method, the observer records all the relevant aspects of an event which are necessary for study.

He is free to change the locations and focus of the observation. One major limitation of the method is that the observer may not be able to cover all relevant events when they are happening.

Physical presence of an observer is not required and recording is done with the help of mechanical, photographic or electronic devices;

For example, close circuit TV (CCTV) cameras are used in many showrooms to observe the behaviour of customers. It provides a permanent record for an analysis of different aspects of the event.

All observations are done under pre-specified conditions over extrinsic and intrinsic variables by adopting experimental design and systematically recording observations. Controlled observations are carried out either in the laboratory or the field.

There is no control over extrinsic and intrinsic variables. It is mainly used for descriptive research. Participant observation is a typical uncontrolled one.

Prerequisites of Observation

The following are the prerequisites of observation:

The conditions of observation must provide accurate results. An observer should be in a position to observe the object clearly.
The right number of respondents should be selected as the sample size for the observation to produce the desired results.
Accurate and complete recording of an event.
If it is possible, two separate observers and sets of instruments can be used in all or some observations. Then the result can be compared to measure accuracy and completeness.

Advantages of observations

The following are the advantages of observations:

It ensures the study of behaviour in accordance with the occurrence of events. The observer does not ask anything from the representatives, he just watches the doing and saying of the sample.
The data collected by observation defines the observed phenomenon as they occur in their natural settings.
When an object is not able to define the meaning of its behaviour, observation is best method for analysis; for example, animals, birds and children.
Observation covers the entire happenings of an event.
Observation is less biased as compared to questioning.
It is easier to conduct disguised observation studies as opposed to disguised questioning.
The use of mechanical devices can generate accurate results.

Disadvantages of observations

The following are the limitations of observation:

Past studies and events are of no use to observation. For these events and study, one has to go through narrations, people and documents.
It is difficult to understand attitudes with the help of observation.
Observations cannot be performed by the choice of the observer. He has to wait for an event to occur.
It is difficult to predict when and where the event will occur. Thus, it may not be possible for an observer to reach in every event.
Observation requires more time and money.

Use of observation in business research

Observation is very useful in the following business research purposes:

Buying behaviour of customer, lifestyles, customs, interpersonal relations, group dynamics, leadership styles, managerial style and actions.
Physical characteristics of inanimate things like houses, factories, stores, etc.
Movements in a production plant.
Flow of traffic, crowd and parking on road.

Primary data can be collected with the help of emails and surveys. The respondents receive the questionnaires from the researcher and are asked to fill them completely and return them to the researcher. It can be performed only when the respondents are educated.

The mail questionnaire should be simple and easy to understand so that the respondents can answer all questions easily. In mail questionnaires, all the answers have to be given and recorded by the respondents and not by the researcher or investigator, as in the case of the personal interview method. There is no face-to-face interaction between the investigator and respondent and so the respondent is free to give answers of his own choice.

Importance of questionnaires

A questionnaire is a very effective method as well as research tool in any research study. It ensures the collection of a diversified and wide range of scientific data to complete the research objectives. The questionnaire provides all the inputs in the form of relevant data to all statistical methods used in a research study.

Types of Questionnaire

The following are the various categories of questionnaires:

Structured or standard questionnaire Structured or standard questionnaires contain predefined questions in order to collect the required data for research study. These questions are the same for all the respondents. Questions are in the same language and in the same order for all the respondents.
Unstructured questionnaire In unstructured questionnaires, the respondent has the freedom

Process of Data Collection

The researcher prepares the mailing list by collecting the addresses of all the respondents with the help of primary and secondary sources of data. A covering letter must accompany every questionnaire, indicating the purpose and importance of the research and importance of cooperation of the respondent for the success of the research study.

Advantages of Questionnaires

The following are the advantages of questionnaires:

Wide reach and extensive coverage
Easy to contact the person who is busy
Respondent’s convenience in completion of questionnaire
More impersonal, provides more anonymity
No interviewer’s biasness

Disadvantages of Questionnaires

The following are the disadvantages of questionnaires:

Low response by respondent
Low scope in many societies where literary level is low
More time requirement

Preparation of an Effective Questionnaire

While preparing a questionnaire, the researcher must focus on some key parameters to prepare it. These key parameters are as follows:

Proper use of open and close probe
Proper sequence of questions
Use of simple language
Asking no personal question in which the respondent is hesitating to answer
Should not be time consuming
Use of control questions indicating reliability of the respondent

Collecting Data through Schedule

This method is very similar to the collection of data through questionnaires. The only difference is that in schedule, enumerators are appointed. These enumerators go to the respondents, ask the stated questions in the same sequence as the schedule and record the reply of respondents.

Schedules may be given to the respondents and the enumerators should help them solve the problems faced while answering the question in the given schedule. Thus, enumerator selection is very important in data collection through schedules.

Difference between schedule and questionnaire

Both questionnaire and schedule are popular methods of data collection. The following are the main differences between questionnaire and schedule:

A questionnaire is generally sent to the respondents through mail, but in case of schedule, it is sent through enumerators.
Questionnaires are relatively cheaper mediums of data collection as compared to schedules. In the case of questionnaires, the cost is incurred in preparing it and mailing it to respondent, while in schedule, more money is required for hiring enumerators, training them and incurring their field expenses.
The response rate in questionnaires is low as many people return it without filling. On the other hand, the response rate in schedules is high because they are filled by enumerators.
In collecting data through questionnaires, the identity of the respondent may not be known, but this is not the case when it comes to schedules.
Data collection through questionnaires requires a lot of time, which is comparatively very less in case of schedules.
Generally, there is no personal contact in case of questionnaires, but in schedules, personal contact is always there.
The literacy level of the respondent is very important while filling questionnaires, but in schedules, the literacy level of the respondent is not a major concern as the responses have to be recorded by enumerators.
Wider distribution of questionnaires is possible but this is difficult with schedules.
There is less accuracy and completeness of responses in questionnaires as compared to schedules.
The success of questionnaires depends on the quality of questions but success of a schedule depends on the enumerators.
The physical appearance of questionnaire matters a lot, which is less important in case of schedules.
Observation method cannot be used along with questionnaires but it can be used along with schedule.

We explore and analyse the life of a social chapter or entity, whether it be a family, a person, an institution or a community, with the help of a case study. The purpose of case study method is to identify the factors and reasons that account for particular behaviour patterns of a sample chapter and its association with other social or environmental factors.

Generally social researchers use case study method to understand the complex social phenomenon and to identify the factors related to this phenomenon.

Case study provides the clues and ideas to a researcher for further research study. By adopting case study method, a researcher gets to know about happenings in the past, which could be related to the research studies and analyse the problem with better perspectives.

Assumptions of case study method

The assumptions made in a case study method are as follows:

Case study depends on the imagination of the investigator who is analysing the case study. The investigator makes up his procedure as he goes along.
History related to the case is complete and as coherent as it could be.
It is advisable to supplement the case data by observational, statistical and historical data, since these provide standards for assessing the reliability and consistency of the case material.
Efforts should be made to ascertain the reliability of life history data by examining the internal consistency of the material.
A judicious combination of techniques of data collection is a prerequisite for securing data that is culturally meaningful and scientifically significant.

Advantages of Case Study Method

Key advantages of the case study method are as follows:

Provides the basis for understanding complex social phenomenon and all related factors affecting the social phenomenon.
Provides clues and ideas for exploratory research. When the researcher is not able to get a fair idea about the research, past happenings mentioned in a case study help the researcher get clues and ideas.
Case study helps in generating objectives for exploratory research.
It suggests the new courses of inquiry.
Case study helps in formulating research hypothesis.

Disadvantages of Case Study Method

Some important disadvantages of case study method are as follows:

Reliability : Data collected through case study may not be reliable or it can be difficult to verify the reliability of data in the current scenario.
Adequacy : Data collected through case studies may not be adequate for research work as data is not pertinent to the research conditions.
Representative : Data presented by case studies represents the happenings with unknown circumstances to a researcher. Hence, it cannot be the true representation of events to a researcher.

Case study as a method of business research

A detailed case study helps the researcher identify the reasons behind business related problems. As it can be possible that that particular incident has happened in past, so the current issues can be sorted out, by referring to the same case.

In depth analysis of selected cases is of particular value to business research when a complex set of variables may be at work in generating observed results and intensive study is needed to unravel the complexities.

The exploratory investigator should have an active curiosity and willingness to deviate from the initial plan, when the finding suggests a new course of enquiry, which might prove more productive. With the help of case study method, the risk can be minimized in any decision-making process.

Business Ethics

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Types of Companies in India
Internal Corporate Governance
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What is Risk Register?
Risk Management Committee

Corporate social responsibility (CSR)

Theories of CSR
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Lean Six Sigma

What is Six Sigma?
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IBM Uses Six Sigma to Drive Behaviour Change
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Sampling Method
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Levels of Measurement
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Service Design Process
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Gap Model of Service Quality
Juran Trilogy
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Procurement Management

What is Procurement Management?
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What is Purchasing Cycle?
Vendor Managed Inventory
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Spend Analysis in Procurement
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Documents Used in International Procurement
Transportation and Logistics Strategy
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Procurement Process of Capital Equipment
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What is E-Procurement?
E-marketplace and Online Catalogues
Fixed Price and Cost Reimbursement Contracts
Contract Cancellation in Procurement
Ethics in Procurement
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Strategic Management

What is Strategic Management?
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Mission Statement
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What is Vision?
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Prahalad and Gary Hammel
Strategic Management In Global Environment
Competitor Analysis Framework
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Five Competitive Forces That Shape Strategy
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Fragmentation and Consolidation Of Industries
What is Technology Life Cycle?
What is Diversification Strategy?
What is Corporate Restructuring Strategy?
Resources and Capabilities of Organization
Role of Leaders In Functional-Level Strategic Management
Functional Structure In Functional Level Strategy Formulation
Information And Control System
What is Strategy Gap Analysis?
Issues In Strategy Implementation
Matrix Organizational Structure
What is Strategic Management Process?

Supply Chain

What is Supply Chain Management?
Supply Chain Planning and Measuring Strategy Performance
What is Warehousing?
What is Packaging?
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What is Material Handling?
What is Order Picking?
Receiving and Dispatch, Processes
What is Warehouse Design?
What is Warehousing Costs?

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18 Case Study Method

Ms. Beliyaluxmi Devi

1. Introduction

2. Case Study

3 Techniques used for case studies

4 Sources of data for case studies

5 Types of case Studies

6 Advantage and limitation

Learning Objectives:

To learn what is case study and distinction from case history; identify the application of case study;
To discuss how to plan case study; and
To understand the advantage and limitation of case study
Introduction

Among the various methods of data collection, case study is certainly one popular form of qualitative analysis involving careful and complete observation of a case. A case is a social unit with a deviant behavior, and may be an event, problem, process, activity, programme, of a social unit. The unit may be a person, a family, an institution, a cultural group, a community or even an entire society (Kothari, 2014). But it is a bounded system that has the boundaries of the case. Case Study therefore is an intensive investigation of the particular unit under consideration. It is extensively used in psychology, education, sociology, anthropology, economics and political science. It aims at obtaining a complete and detailed account of a social phenomenon or a social event of a social unit. In case study, data can be collected from multiple sources by using any qualitative method of data collection like interviews, observation and it may also include documents, artifacts etc. Case study method is a type of data collection that goes in depth understanding rather than breadth. Case study can be descriptive as we observe and write in description as well as it can also be an exploratory that is we wrote what was said. Pierre Guillaume Frederic Le Play (1855), a mathematician and natural scientist, is considered as the founder of case study method as he used it for the first time in his publication Les Ouvriers Europeens.

2.1 Definitions of Case Study Methods

Case study has been defined differently by different scholars from time to time. Some of them are presented below.

Young, P.V. (1984): Case study is a comprehensive study of a social unit, be it a person, a group of persons, an institute, a community or a family.
Groode and Hatt (1953): It is a method of exploring and analyzing the life of a social unit
Cooley, C.H. (2007): Case study depends our perception and gives clear insight into life directory.
Bogardus, E. S. (1925): The method of examining specially and in detail a given situation
Robson C. (1993): A strategy for doing research which involves an empirical investigation of a particular contemporary phenomenon within its real life context using multiple sources of evidence.

So critical analysis of these definitions, reveal that case study is a method of minute and detail study of a situation concerning a social unit in an intensive and comprehensive manner in order to understand the personal as well as hidden dimensions of human life.

2.2 Characteristics of Case Study

The main characteristics of the case study are (www.studylecturenotes.com):

A descriptive study:

The data collected constitute descriptions of psychological processes and events, and of the contexts in which they occurred.
The main emphasis is always on the construction of verbal descriptions of behavior or experience but rarely quantitative data may be collected. In short case study is more of a qualitative method rather than quantitative method.
High levels of detail are provided.
The behavior pattern of the concerned unit is studied directly wherein efforts are made to know the mutual inter-relationship of causal factors.

Narrowly focused:

Typically a case study offers a complete and comprehensive description of all facets of a social unit, be it a single individual or may be a social group.
Often the case study focuses on a limited aspect of a person, such as their psychopathological symptoms.

Combines objective and subjective data:

Researchers may combine objective and subjective data. Both the data are regarded as valid data for analysis. It enables case study to achieved in-depth understanding of the behavior and experience of a single individual.

Process-oriented:

The case study method enables the researcher to explore and describe the nature of processes, which occur over time.
In contrast to the experimental method, which basically provides a stilled ‘snapshot’ of processes, case study continued over time like for example the development of language in children over time.

2.3. Difference between Case Study and Case History

The Case study method helps retaining the holistic and meaningful characteristics of real life events – such as individual life cycles, small group behavior, etc. It is like a case history of a patient. As a patient goes to the doctor with some serious disease, the doctor records the case history. Analysis of case history helps in the diagnosis of the patient’s illness (http://www.differencebetween.com/difference-between-case-study-and-vs-case-history).

Although most of us confuse case study and case history to be the same, however, there exists a difference between these two terms. They are being used in many disciplines and allow the researcher to be more informative of people, and events. First, let us define the word case study. A case study refers to a research method where a person, group or an event is being investigated which is used by researchers whereas a case history, on the other hand, refers to a record of data which contributes to a case study; usually case history is used by doctors to investigate the patients. This is the main difference between a case study and case history.

(i) What is a Case Study?

A case study is a research method used to investigate an individual, a group of people, or a particular phenomenon. The case study has been used in many disciplines especially in social science, anthropology, sociology, psychology, and political science. A case study allows the researcher to gain an in-depth understanding of the topic. To conduct a case study, the researcher can use a number of techniques. For example, observation, interviews, usage of secondary data such as documents, records, etc. It usually goes on for a longer period because the researcher has to explore the topic deeply.

The case study method was first used in the clinical medicine so that the doctor has a clear understanding of the history of the patient. Various methods can be used in a case study for example a psychologist use observation to observe the individual, use interview method to broaden the understanding. To create a clear picture of the problem, the questions can be directed not only to the individual on whom the case study is being conducted but also on those who are related to the individual. A special feature of case studies is that it produces qualitative data that are rich and authentic.

(ii) What is a Case History?

Unlike the case study that refers to a method, a case history refers to a record of an individual or even a group. Case histories are used in many disciplines such as psychology, sociology, medicine, psychiatry, etc. It consists of all the necessary information of the individual. In medicine, a case history refers to a specific record that reveals the personal information, medical condition, the medication that has been used and special conditions of the individual. Having a case history can be very beneficial in treatment of disease. However, a case history does not necessarily have to be connected to an individual; it can even be of an event that took place. The case history is a recording that narrates a sequence of events. Such a narrative allows the researcher to look at an event in retrospect.

Techniques used for Case Studies

The techniques of case studies includes –

(i) Observation

It is a systematic data collection approach. Researchers use all of their senses to examine people in natural settings or naturally occurring situations. Observation of a field setting involves: prolonged engagement in a setting or social situation.

(ii) Interview

It is questioning and discussing to a person for the purpose of an evaluation or to generate information. (iii) Secondary Data

Secondary data refers to data that was collected by someone through secondary sources. (iv) Documents

Any writing that provides information, especially information which is of official in nature.

(v) Records

Anything that provides permanent information which can rely on or providing an evident officially.

Sources of Data for Case Study

In case study, information may be collected from various sources. Some of the important sources include:

Life histories
Personal documents
Letters and records
Biographies
Information obtained through interviews
Observation
Types of Case Study

The following are the types of case study according to the Graham R Gibbs (2012) –

Individual case study: This study was first done by Shaw, Clifford R. (1930). In individual case study, life of a particular person, his activities and his totalities were accompanied.
Set of individual case study: Group of person that practice different culture was studies. As for instance those lives in rural area and those living in urban area there will different cases between them.
Community studies: In community studies, it may include hundreds of people from a community that picked upon for some reason.
Social Group Studies: Group of people that defined their social position, for example a group of musician or a group of drugs taker
Studies of organizations and institutions: Study for a particular organizations or an institutions
Studies of events, roles and relationships: Similar to individual case study but more focus on events, roles and relationships that involved. For example we can take the role of a housewife.

Identifying a Case Study:

Determine if a case study will answer your research question

Identify the case and find out what type of case study method or technique will be employed

When the researcher makes interpretations, the researcher should be able to learn the meaning of the case data while interpreting

How to plan a case study?

The following points are required to plan a case study such as –

Conceptual Framework: based on the theory it displays the important features of a case study and show relationships between features.

Research Questions: Consist of conceptual framework which is consisting of focused and answerable questions.

Research Design: Plan out of what to include or what not to include before data collection

Methods and Instruments: an appropriate method should be employed to answer the research question

Analysis of Data and interpretation: Collected information should be analysed using statistical tools and interpret the findings incorporating the ideas and knowledge gathered during data collection

Advantages and Limitations

6.1 Advantages of Case Study

The following are some of the advantages of case study –

a) It facilitates intensive study and in-depth analysis of a social unit which help in contradicting established theory.

b) In-depth and comprehensive information are collected through this method which helps in stimulating new research.

c) It is suitable for collecting data pertaining to sensitive areas of a social phenomenon.

d) It helps to collect details regarding the diverse habits, traits and qualities of the unit under investigation (Kothari, 2014).

e) The researcher can understand better the social change of different facets of a social unit every now and then.

f) This study can be a means to understand the past of a social unit because of its emphasis of historical analysis.

g) The researcher can used any type of methods like interview, questionnaire, documents, self-reports etc.

h) Case study enables to generalize the knowledge amusing from the information collected.

i) A real personal experience can be recorded which enlighten and reveal the real man’s inner determined.

j) The data obtained through case study is useful for formulation of hypothesis and preparation of schedule and questionnaire for such types of study and for further research (Kothari, 2014).

k) It helps in enhancing his/her experience, ability and skill in content analysis of the data.

l) It is useful for therapeutic and administrative purposes, particularly in diagnosis, treatment and therapy etc.

6.2 Limitations of Case Study

a) Case history records could be open to errors due to faulty selection of case and inaccurate observation (Kothari, 2014).

b) There are chances of inaccuracy of the data as no uniform and standardized system of recording case histories has been developed.

c) Data collected from case study usually based on several assumptions which may not be very realistic at times

d) This method is mainly qualitative rather than quantitative, hence there may be question of subjectivity.

e) It is very difficult to draw generalizations on the basis of a few cases.

f) Sampling is not possible in case study as this method can be used only in a limited unit.

g) The information collected from case study is incomparable since each informant gives his/her own opinion. Therefore, replication is not possible.

h) Since this method is fully based on the informant, sometimes the informant himself thinks that he/she have the full knowledge and the information given by them may include some fake also.

i) The investigator’s bias might distort the quality of the case study (Kothari, 2014).

j) Case Study is time-consuming and costly in certain cases.

k) This method cannot be effectively used in big and complex societies (Kothari, 2014).

Case study is an important method employed for collection of qualitative data for an in depth, intensive and comprehensive scientific study of a social unit. This social unit can be an individual, a family, a community, a group or even an entire society. Case study is quite different from the case history which focuses on the recording of personal information. Different methods of case study such as individual, community, social group, organization and events using appropriate techniques (observation, interview, secondary data like documents and records) are used based on the objectives of the research problem. The main sources of data in case studies includes life histories, personal documents, letters and records, biographies, information obtained through interviews and observation. Case studies facilitate intensive study and in-depth analysis of a social unit contradicting established theory. It helps in contradicting established theory and stimulating new research. However, difficulties arises in case studies due to a number of reasons which includes inconsistency in data, not possible to replicate the findings, interviewing key and right informants, expertise of the investigator, constant monitoring of interaction between the theoretical issues being studied and collected data, and interpretation of the data needs to be carefully considered.

Research Methodologies Guide

Action Research
Bibliometrics

Case Studies

Content Analysis
Creative Research Methods
Digital Scholarship This link opens in a new window
Documentary
Ethnography
Focus Groups
Grounded Theory
Life Histories/Autobiographies
Longitudinal
Participant Observation
Qualitative Research (General)
Quasi-Experimental Design
Usability Studies

"A case study is an empirical inquiry that investigates a contemporary phenomenon within its real-life context, especially when the boundaries between phenomenon and context are not clearly evident" (Yin, 1994).

It refers to a type of research in which a case (an event, issue, population, or other item being studied) is analyzed, often through the use of multiple methods of analysis.

Tools commonly used in case studies include:

Observations

For more information about case studies, review the resources below:

Books and articles

Five Misunderstandings About Case Study Research [pdf] An article reflecting on common issues in case study research.
Case Study Research and Applications by Robert K. Yin Publication Date: 2017
Qualitative Research Through Case Studies by Max Travers Publication Date: 2001
Unravelling the Mysteries of Case Study Research by Marilyn L. Taylor; Mikael Søndergaard Publication Date: 2017

Additional Resources

Case Studies A tutorial on case study research from Colorado State University.
Case Study - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Wikipedia can be a useful place to start your research- check the citations at the bottom of the article for more information.
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Next: Content Analysis >>
Last Updated: Dec 20, 2024 2:53 PM
URL: https://instr.iastate.libguides.com/researchmethods

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Case Study Method

What is Case Study Method

Why Case Study Method?

Meaning and Definitions of Case Study Method

Characteristics of Case Study Method

Types of Case Study Method

Steps in Case Study Method

Advantages and Disadvantages

Introduction

The case study method is one of many research approaches utilized in the social sciences, alongside experiments, surveys, historical analyses, and archival investigations. Unlike broad statistical surveys or comprehensive comparative inquiries, it involves in-depth exploration of a specific research problem. This method excels in narrowing expansive fields of study to manageable examples, enabling researchers to assess the applicability of theories and models to real-world phenomena with limited information available.

Each research method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, influenced by various factors:

(a) the nature of the research question, (b) the level of control over actual behavioural events, (c) the focus on contemporary versus historical phenomena.

The case study approach is highly effective in providing a nuanced comprehension of intricate issues through thorough contextual examination of a limited set of events or circumstances and their interconnectedness. Researchers utilizing this method can employ diverse methodologies and draw from various sources to investigate a research problem, enriching or complementing existing knowledge from prior research endeavours. Social scientists commonly employ this approach to scrutinize real-world situations, thereby bolstering the application of concepts and theories and advancing methodologies, often furnishing detailed portrayals of specific and uncommon cases.

Nevertheless, this research methodology, particularly when focused on a single or a small number of cases, encounters hurdles in establishing reliability and extrapolating findings to broader populations. Intense concentration on a case may skew researchers’ interpretations, and the design may not facilitate the assessment of causal relationships. Moreover, essential information might be lacking, rendering interpretation challenging, while the selected case may not adequately represent the larger issue under investigation. If a case is chosen for its uniqueness, findings may only be pertinent to that specific instance.

The origin of the case study method is credited to Frederic Leplay, an English philosopher. Herbert Spencer further developed it, and Healey was among the pioneers in advocating for and applying this method in the study of juvenile delinquency. Subsequently, sociologists, anthropologists, ethnologists, and other researchers became intrigued by the use of the case study method to examine various cultures.

Thorough investigations often involve conducting case studies in genuine settings, allowing researchers to gain authentic insights into the subjects’ nature. These studies rely on information gathered from documents, observations, and interviews, which serve as valuable sources. Generally, case studies are undertaken for three primary purposes:

1. As Pilot Research: To embark on broader research into creativity, a researcher might commence by examining a few case studies. This initial phase enables them to identify potential trends and establish the most effective methodology for conducting more comprehensive research—a crucial stage often termed as pilot investigation.

2. To develop new theories: Case studies often spark the development of new psychological theories, stemming from initial explorations or independent case analyses. For example, when studying a businessman’s routines and observing his peak cognitive abilities in the early morning, an observer might hypothesize that early mornings enhance creativity. This hypothesis could then be tested through wider research methods beyond individual case studies.

3. To challenge traditional theories: Science is an ever-changing domain, constantly adapting to fresh evidence and questioning old assumptions. Throughout history, prevailing scientific beliefs have been overturned, like the once-held notion of a flat Earth with the sun revolving around it. Yet, ongoing research continually corrects such misunderstandings. Case studies offer a means to scrutinize and refine scientific theories. By examining specific instances, researchers can challenge established beliefs. For instance, the common belief that creative individuals often display symptoms of mental illness can be challenged by a case study of a successful businessman who exhibits creativity without any mental health issues.

Moreover, case studies not only challenge existing theories but also pave the way for new ones. Pilot research, for instance, may reveal inconsistencies that prompt a reassessment of prevailing ideas, leading to the development of fresh hypotheses and theories. While not every case study may overturn established scientific paradigms, they are crucial in the ongoing process of scientific inquiry, contributing to the enhancement and expansion of our knowledge.

Following are the characteristics of case study method:

1. Small Study Unit: Case study research examines various facets of a small number of chosen cases, which may include individuals, groups, organizations, movements, events, or geographical locations. The information gathered for each case is thorough, varied, and extensive, facilitating thorough analysis. This research method can focus on a particular moment or extend over a period of time.

2. Qualitative as well as Quantitative: The bulk of case-study inquiries usually lean towards qualitative examination, though this isn’t an absolute norm. Conversely, the majority of cross-case studies, also referred to as non-case research, often embrace quantitative methodologies. Despite their differences, qualitative research and case studies both aim to craft comprehensive depictions grounded in thorough case understanding. Take, for example, Venkatesh’s ethnographic exploration of urban gangs—a case study detailing the dynamics and interactions within a singular gang across eight years in a particular locale of South Chicago.

3. Intensive Study: Case-study research entails a comprehensive investigation into one or a select few cases, meticulously exploring the nuances of each case and its contextual backdrop. Its objective is to dissect both the particular elements within each case and the wider situational variables. This methodology enables the correlation between individual behaviors on a micro scale and the larger frameworks and dynamics on a macro scale. In line with Walton’s perspective, the crux of case studies lies in elucidating the causal connections between broader societal influences and specific results within distinct settings.

4. Link to Abstract Ideas: Case-study research presents several benefits. It helps deepen comprehension and bridges theoretical concepts with practical applications through in-depth examination of specific cases. Furthermore, it enables the refinement of abstract ideas through real-life observations and established evidential criteria. Moreover, case studies play a pivotal role in theory development, as highlighted by Walton, who proposed that they frequently produce the most robust theoretical frameworks.

5. Close Familiarity: Having a deep understanding of the subject, conducting thorough analysis involves immersing oneself in a significant amount of information about specific units or cases, covering either one period or multiple periods. This approach can result in the creation of innovative theories suited to complex scenarios or the improvement of existing theories to better address intricate situations.

6. Cause and Effect Relationship: When researchers delve into specific instances, they unveil the intricate workings of social processes and causal connections, revealing the complexity of social existence. This heightened understanding facilitates the creation of thorough explanations capable of capturing the multifaceted essence of societal occurrences. Furthermore, case studies provide evidence that more accurately depicts intricate events or circumstances shaped by numerous factors unfolding over time and space. Additionally, case study research has the ability to encompass entire scenarios and multiple perspectives within its purview.

From the aforementioned description, it can be deduced that the case study approach involves in-depth investigation aimed at comprehensively examining individuals or phenomena. Nevertheless, detractors argue that studying a limited number of cases compromises the reliability or applicability of findings. Some assert that excessive focus on a single case may skew the results. Certain critics perceive case study research merely as a preliminary tool. Despite these critiques, researchers continue to successfully utilize the case study method in meticulously designed inquiries into real-life situations, issues, and challenges. Accounts of case studies spanning various fields are readily available in scholarly literature.

Case study research is distinguished by its capacity to explore intricate issues or topics, providing fresh insights that complement or enrich existing knowledge derived from previous studies. It places significant importance on scrutinizing particular events or circumstances within their wider contexts, enabling researchers to delve into relationships and subtleties with precision. This methodology has enjoyed widespread adoption across diverse domains for many years, especially by social scientists who exploit its qualitative nature to investigate real-world scenarios and pave the way for further theoretical developments and methodological refinements.

Robert K. Yin, a prominent authority in case study research, describes this method as involving empirical investigation into a contemporary phenomenon within its genuine setting, where the boundaries between the phenomenon and its context may be blurred. This approach relies on multiple sources of evidence to construct a comprehensive understanding.

Several influential scholars, including Robert E. Stake, Helen Simons, and Robert K. Yin himself, have made substantial contributions to the body of literature on case study research, furnishing insights and proposing methodologies for effective implementation. Drawing on their collective expertise, this overview suggests a structured approach comprising six pivotal steps indispensable for conducting any research based on case studies:

Step 1. Determine the Research Questions: The initial step in conducting a case study involves establishing a clear research focus, which serves as a guiding framework throughout the investigation of a complex phenomenon or entity. This entails formulating relevant questions about the subject and defining the study’s purpose. Case studies typically examine programs, individuals, or groups, each intertwined with socio-political, historical, and personal factors, offering numerous avenues for inquiry and increasing the study’s complexity. Researchers employ various data collection methods to deeply explore the subject, generating substantial evidence to aid in understanding the case and addressing research questions.

Case study inquiries often center around “how” or “why” questions, probing specific events or conditions and their connections. To craft these questions effectively, researchers conduct a comprehensive literature review, identifying prior research and developing insightful inquiries about the issue. Clearly framing the questions allows for targeted examination of evidence and facilitates the selection of appropriate analytical methods. The literature review, along with defining the case study’s purpose and identifying its audience, shapes the study’s design, execution, and eventual sharing of findings.

Step 2. Case selection and Determination of Data Gathering and Analysis Techniques: In the initial stages of conducting case study research, the investigator faces the task of carefully selecting real-life cases for in-depth examination and determining the appropriate tools and methodologies for data collection. In instances involving multiple cases, each case is individually analyzed, with their respective conclusions contributing to the overall study while maintaining their distinctiveness. Ensuring high-quality case studies entails meticulous case selection and thoughtful consideration of available research tools to bolster the study’s credibility. Discrimination during the selection process serves to delineate the boundaries of each case.

Researchers must make choices regarding whether to focus on unique cases or those considered representative, and they may opt for cases that reflect diverse geographic regions, sizes, or other pertinent parameters. Consistently referencing the study’s objectives helps steer the selection process, ensuring alignment between the chosen cases and evidence with the research inquiries. While the decision to select either multiple or single cases is pivotal, a case study may encompass various units of analysis, such as examining both an industry and a participating firm, thereby heightening complexity and data volume.

One of the significant advantages of the case study method lies in its utilization of diverse sources and techniques for data collection. Researchers predefine the evidence to collect and the analytical methods to employ in addressing the research queries. Data collection typically leans towards qualitative methods but may incorporate quantitative elements as well. Common instruments for data collection encompass surveys, interviews, document analysis, observation, and the scrutiny of physical artifacts.

The systematic and precise use of designated data collection tools is crucial for effective evidence gathering. Throughout the design phase, researchers must ensure the study’s robustness to uphold construct validity, internal validity, external validity, and reliability. Construct validity necessitates selecting suitable measures for the concepts under examination. Internal validity, particularly crucial in explanatory or causal studies, involves establishing causal relationships and requires multiple sources of evidence to validate findings. Researchers strive to establish a coherent chain of evidence. External validity evaluates the extent to which findings can be generalized beyond the immediate cases, with techniques such as cross-case and within-case examinations, along with literature review, aiding in this regard. Reliability pertains to the consistency and precision of measurement. Exemplary case study design entails well-documented procedures that yield consistent results upon replication.

Step 3. Preparation of data collection: Given the vast amount of data amassed through case study research across diverse sources, it’s imperative to methodically structure this data to prevent overwhelming the researcher and veering off from the original research objectives. Adequate preparation entails the creation of databases for organizing, classifying, storing, and retrieving data for analysis in an efficient manner. Exemplary case studies incorporate comprehensive training programs for investigators, establish clear protocols and procedures prior to fieldwork, and conduct pilot studies to preemptively tackle potential obstacles and concerns. The investigator training regimen encompasses foundational study concepts, terminology, processes, and methodologies, ensuring their appropriate application. It underscores the importance of employing multiple data-gathering techniques for triangulation during analysis and delineates protocols for case study research, including deadlines, reporting formats, field note guidelines, and data collection procedures.

Investigators must possess adept listening skills to accurately interpret interview responses, pose insightful questions, and differentiate between factual information and interpretations in documents. They must be adaptable to real-world scenarios, maintaining flexibility and readiness for unforeseen developments. Grasping the study’s objectives and intricacies is crucial, as is being open to conflicting findings. Investigators must acknowledge the human dimension inherent in case studies and exhibit sensitivity to potential participant concerns or uncertainties.

Subsequent to investigator training, the final preparatory phase involves selecting a pilot site and conducting tests with each data collection method to identify and resolve potential issues. Researchers should anticipate challenges, institute measures for confidentiality, and be amenable to refining the research design to effectively address emerging inquiries.

Step 4. Data collection in the Field: In the realm of research, it’s vital for the investigator to compile and arrange a wide range of evidence systematically and thoroughly. This evidence should be stored in formats conducive to easy reference and sorting, facilitating the identification of patterns and converging lines of inquiry. Throughout the research process, meticulous observation of the subject matter is crucial, aiming to pinpoint causal factors associated with the phenomenon under scrutiny. Adjustments to research methodologies or interview questions might be required as the study progresses, and any alterations should be meticulously recorded.

Well-executed case studies employ various tools such as field notes and databases to organize and store data, ensuring its accessibility for subsequent analysis. Field notes not only document factual information but also capture subjective impressions, inquiries, and the ongoing evolution of the research process. They record personal narratives and anecdotes that can enhance later reports and may serve as early indicators of bias or emerging patterns. Additionally, they aid in evaluating whether adjustments to the research approach are necessary based on ongoing observations. It’s crucial to maintain a clear separation between field notes and the primary data collected for analysis.

Establishing a coherent connection between the research question and the amassed evidence is paramount. Whether data is entered into databases or physically stored, it’s essential for the researcher to thoroughly document, categorize, and cross-reference all evidence to facilitate its efficient retrieval and examination throughout the duration of the study.

Step 5. Analyze and Evaluate the Data: The researcher employs a range of methodologies to scrutinize raw data with the aim of establishing correlations between the subject of study and the outcomes based on the original research queries. They maintain openness to new insights and possibilities throughout this process. By utilizing the case study approach, which involves employing diverse data collection techniques and analytical methods, researchers can corroborate data to bolster the reliability of their findings and conclusions.

This analytical strategy urges researchers to surpass initial interpretations to refine the accuracy of their findings. Well-crafted case studies intentionally structure data in various formats to unveil fresh perspectives and actively seek contradictory data to test their analysis. Researchers organize, condense, and reframe data to address initial hypotheses or research objectives while cross-referencing facts and inconsistencies in narratives. Additionally, they may conduct focused, concise follow-up interviews to gather additional data to validate key observations or facts.

Specific techniques include arranging information into arrays, constructing category matrices, creating flowcharts or other visual aids, and quantifying event frequencies. Quantitative data is leveraged to validate and bolster qualitative data, particularly aiding in understanding the underlying rationale or theoretical frameworks governing relationships. Involving multiple investigators brings the benefit of diverse viewpoints and insights, bolstering confidence in findings when observations align. Conversely, conflicting viewpoints prompt researchers to delve deeper into their analysis.

Another method, the cross-case search for patterns, guards against premature conclusions by requiring a thorough exploration of data from various perspectives. This approach entails categorizing data types across all studied cases, with each researcher meticulously analyzing a specific data type. When patterns identified in one data type are corroborated by evidence from another, the findings gain credibility. Contradictory evidence triggers further inquiry to uncover underlying causes. Throughout, researchers approach the evidence objectively to derive analytical conclusions that address the original “how” and “why” research inquiries.

Step 6. Preparation of the Report: Exemplary case studies excel in presenting complex data in a comprehensible manner, allowing readers to critically engage with the material and develop their own insights, independent of the researcher’s viewpoint. The main goal of these reports is to clarify intricate issues by immersing readers in a simulated experience. They employ accessible data presentation methods, encouraging readers to apply newfound knowledge to their own situations. Researchers ensure the report is supported by sufficient evidence, instilling confidence that all aspects of the problem are thoroughly explored. Moreover, they transparently define the case’s boundaries and address conflicting perspectives.

Various techniques are utilized in crafting such reports, including dedicating separate sections to individual cases or presenting them in a chronological narrative. Some researchers choose a storytelling approach. Throughout the report creation process, researchers meticulously review for gaps or oversights. They seek feedback from diverse audience groups, incorporating suggestions and making necessary revisions. Some proponents of case study research advocate involving journalists or participants in the review process.

Strengths of Case Study Method in Research

Case study research demonstrates several strengths:

Concept Validation: Case studies help to elucidate and validate key concepts or variables, offering insight into their fundamental essence within abstract theory.
Facilitating Learning and Discovery: They foster learning, discovery, and problem-solving, contributing to the development of new theories and the refinement of existing ones. They also explore interconnections among related ideas.
Uncovering Causal Mechanisms: Case studies provide insight into the complex social processes and mechanisms through which one factor influences others, shedding light on underlying causal dynamics.
Capturing Complexity and Process: They excel in depicting intricate events or situations, allowing for meticulous tracing of processes across time and space.
Ensuring Accuracy: Case studies enable researchers to align measurements of abstract concepts with concrete standards and reliable real-life experiences.
Holistic Exploration: They offer a comprehensive examination of entire situations or processes, accommodating multiple perspectives for a fuller understanding.

In summary, case studies provide detailed examination while encompassing a broader narrative. This is exemplified in Walton’s analysis of Owens Valley, California, where he aimed to convey a larger narrative through the microcosm of a single case. The study delved into the community’s struggle for control over its vital resource, water, and its fate, spanning over a century. Walton utilized various data sources, including firsthand observation, interviews, demographic data, maps, archival photographs, newspaper articles, historical documents, and official records.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Case Study Method

The use of case studies is widely recognized as a valuable research approach in numerous industries and academic fields. While they offer many advantages, it’s important to acknowledge that they also come with certain limitations. Here are some advantages of utilizing the case study method:

Advantages:

1. Intensive Study: The case study approach enables a thorough analysis of a particular subject, allowing for a deep exploration of its complexities and subtleties. By employing this method, researchers can thoroughly investigate events or individuals, leading to a comprehensive understanding that may be difficult to achieve through other means. This methodology is especially useful in situations where it’s not feasible to physically or ethically replicate the subject matter.

2. Developing New Research: Case studies play a crucial role in sparking new directions for research. Through conducting in-depth analyses and gleaning insights, researchers can lay the groundwork for further exploration and progress in their fields. Many research projects have been inspired and propelled forward by the foundational work of case studies.

3. Contradiction of Established Ideas: In numerous instances, theories come under scrutiny when confronted with real-life situations, such as case studies. Consider the case commonly known as the John/John case, which posed a challenge to the prevailing belief that gender and sexual identity were primarily influenced by environmental factors rather than biological predispositions. This particular case centered around twin boys who both underwent circumcision at the age of six months. However, due to a mishap during the procedure, one of the twins suffered irreversible damage to his genitalia. Distressed about their child’s future, the parents sought guidance from Dr. John Money, a proponent of the theory that upbringing played a greater role in determining gender identity than inherent biology.

Dr. Money proposed a controversial solution: the twin who had suffered damage, named Bruce, could be raised as a girl. Bruce underwent extensive surgeries, including genital reconstruction, and was given the name Brenda. Despite concerted efforts to align Brenda’s identity with the theory, the outcome proved far from successful. Subsequent developments revealed that Brenda experienced significant psychological distress and struggled with the gender identity assigned to her. The deception surrounding the perceived success of the procedure added another layer of ethical and moral complexity to the case.

Ultimately, the John/John case underscored the flaws in Dr. Money’s theory. It demonstrated that attempting to manipulate an individual’s gender identity solely through environmental factors was not only ineffective but also harmful. Despite being tarnished by deceit and ethical shortcomings, this case remains noteworthy as a cautionary narrative, emphasizing the critical importance of evaluating theories in light of empirical evidence.

4. Giving New Insight: Case studies provide invaluable insights into phenomena that are typically beyond the reach of conventional methods. A striking example of this is found in the story of Sidney Bradford. Born blind, Bradford regained his sight at 52 through a corneal transplant, offering researchers a rare opportunity to explore the complexities of perception and movement post-surgery. His experience provided a unique window into how the sudden restoration of sight affects aspects like colour perception and spatial awareness in humans. Interestingly, Bradford opted to continue living and working with his eyes closed due to the overwhelming sensory overload caused by sight.

This inquiry not only deepened our understanding of the physiological aspects of vision but also yielded significant sociological implications. It illuminated the intricate interplay between societal norms and individual ethics, enriching our comprehension of human behavior within social frameworks.

Disadvantages:

Following are disadvantages of case study method:

1. Inability to Replicate: The Genie case study highlights the common hurdles encountered in replicating research efforts, which in turn obstructs validation. Without successful replication, the conclusions drawn from these studies are limited to the unique circumstances of the individuals involved. While there may be a temptation to extend the findings of the Genie study to similar cases of feral children, complete certainty can only be achieved through additional research and analysis.

2. Researcher Bias: In the course of conducting a case study, authors might unknowingly inject biases into their work. These biases can take different shapes, including a partiality towards the subject, the methods used to gather data, or the interpretation of that data. Human subjectivity is a key factor here, as seen in documented instances of bias in the case studies and analyses of influential psychologists like Sigmund Freud. Furthermore, researchers may form strong connections with their study subjects or start empathizing with them, which can compromise objectivity and lead them away from the stance of a neutral observer.

3. No Classification: It can be difficult to categorize results when the investigation is limited in scope. The capacity to derive broader implications becomes constrained when the research remains focused on a specific, restricted demographic. Nevertheless, these constraints might not be problematic, especially if the study’s goals do not emphasize generalizability.

4. Time Intensive: Case studies frequently require a substantial commitment of time. Collecting data can prove to be a thorough and demanding undertaking, especially for inexperienced researchers unfamiliar with its intricacies. Constructing a comprehensive case study entails dedicating significant time and effort to both the development and analysis of the gathered data.

5. Possibility of Errors: The case study method can be prone to inaccuracies due to memory gaps and subjective interpretations. Memory reconstruction, essential in constructing case histories, inherently carries the risk of introducing errors. Moreover, personal interpretations of past events can vary greatly among individuals, resulting in inconsistencies. Furthermore, people tend to prioritize certain aspects of their lives based on personal significance, which can lead to biased perspectives and possibly overshadow alternative viewpoints.

6. Ethical Issues: Ethical dilemmas frequently arise in small-scale studies, prompting crucial inquiries into the point at which a study veers into unethical territory. The Genie case stands out as a prime example, sparking ongoing ethical debates. Moreover, concerns emerge regarding researchers’ potential biases when deeply immersed in a study, leading to questions about their willingness to disclose any unethical behavior they might encounter.

Case studies present a unique challenge due to their complexity, involving various data sources, multiple cases, and substantial datasets for analysis. Scholars from diverse disciplines employ the case study method to advance theories, challenge established ideas, shed light on complex situations, propose solutions, investigate phenomena, or provide detailed descriptions of specific subjects. The method’s strengths lie in its capacity to address real-world human scenarios and its accessibility through written reports, which enables findings to resonate with everyday experiences and enhances understanding of intricate real-life contexts.

Educational resources and simple solutions for your research journey

What is a Case Study in Research? Definition, Methods, and Examples

Case study methodology offers researchers an exciting opportunity to explore intricate phenomena within specific contexts using a wide range of data sources and collection methods. It is highly pertinent in health and social sciences, environmental studies, social work, education, and business studies. Its diverse applications, such as advancing theory, program evaluation, and intervention development, make it an invaluable tool for driving meaningful research and fostering positive change.[ 1]

Table of Contents

What is a Case Study?

A case study method involves a detailed examination of a single subject, such as an individual, group, organization, event, or community, to explore and understand complex issues in real-life contexts. By focusing on one specific case, researchers can gain a deep understanding of the factors and dynamics at play, understanding their complex relationships, which might be missed in broader, more quantitative studies.

When to do a Case Study?

A case study design is useful when you want to explore a phenomenon in-depth and in its natural context. Here are some examples of when to use a case study :[ 2]

Exploratory Research: When you want to explore a new topic or phenomenon, a case study can help you understand the subject deeply. For example , a researcher studying a newly discovered plant species might use a case study to document its characteristics and behavior.
Descriptive Research: If you want to describe a complex phenomenon or process, a case study can provide a detailed and comprehensive description. For instance, a case study design could describe the experiences of a group of individuals living with a rare disease.
Explanatory Research: When you want to understand why a particular phenomenon occurs, a case study can help you identify causal relationships. A case study design could investigate the reasons behind the success or failure of a particular business strategy.
Theory Building: Case studies can also be used to develop or refine theories. By systematically analyzing a series of cases, researchers can identify patterns and relationships that can contribute to developing new theories or refining existing ones.
Critical Instance: Sometimes, a single case can be used to study a rare or unusual phenomenon, but it is important for theoretical or practical reasons. For example , the case of Phineas Gage, a man who survived a severe brain injury, has been widely studied to understand the relationship between the brain and behavior.
Comparative Analysis: Case studies can also compare different cases or contexts. A case study example involves comparing the implementation of a particular policy in different countries to understand its effectiveness and identifying best practices.

How to Create a Case Study – Step by Step

Step 1: select a case .

Careful case selection ensures relevance, insight, and meaningful contribution to existing knowledge in your field. Here’s how you can choose a case study design :[ 3]

Define Your Objectives: Clarify the purpose of your case study and what you hope to achieve. Do you want to provide new insights, challenge existing theories, propose solutions to a problem, or explore new research directions?
Consider Unusual or Outlying Cases: Focus on unusual, neglected, or outlying cases that can provide unique insights.
Choose a Representative Case: Alternatively, select a common or representative case to exemplify a particular category, experience, or phenomenon.
Avoid Bias: Ensure your selection process is unbiased using random or criteria-based selection.
Be Clear and Specific: Clearly define the boundaries of your study design , including the scope, timeframe, and key stakeholders.
Ethical Considerations: Consider ethical issues, such as confidentiality and informed consent.

Step 2: Build a Theoretical Framework

To ensure your case study has a solid academic foundation, it’s important to build a theoretical framework:

Conduct a Literature Review: Identify key concepts and theories relevant to your case study .
Establish Connections with Theory: Connect your case study with existing theories in the field.
Guide Your Analysis and Interpretation: Use your theoretical framework to guide your analysis, ensuring your findings are grounded in established theories and concepts.

Step 3: Collect Your Data

To conduct a comprehensive case study , you can use various research methods. These include interviews, observations, primary and secondary sources analysis, surveys, and a mixed methods approach. The aim is to gather rich and diverse data to enable a detailed analysis of your case study .

Step 4: Describe and Analyze the Case

How you report your findings will depend on the type of research you’re conducting. Here are two approaches:

Structured Approach: Follows a scientific paper format, making it easier for readers to follow your argument.
Narrative Approach: A more exploratory style aiming to analyze meanings and implications.

Regardless of the approach you choose, it’s important to include the following elements in your case study :

Contextual Details: Provide background information about the case, including relevant historical, cultural, and social factors that may have influenced the outcome.
Literature and Theory: Connect your case study to existing literature and theory in the field. Discuss how your findings contribute to or challenge existing knowledge.
Wider Patterns or Debates: Consider how your case study fits into wider patterns or debates within the field. Discuss any implications your findings may have for future research or practice.

What Are the Benefits of a Case Study

Case studies offer a range of benefits , making them a powerful tool in research.

1. In-Depth Analysis

Comprehensive Understanding: Case studies allow researchers to thoroughly explore a subject, understanding the complexities and nuances involved.
Rich Data: They offer rich qualitative and sometimes quantitative data, capturing the intricacies of real-life contexts.

2. Contextual Insight

Real-World Application: Case studies provide insights into real-world applications, making the findings highly relevant and practical.
Context-Specific: They highlight how various factors interact within a specific context, offering a detailed picture of the situation.

3. Flexibility

Methodological Diversity: Case studies can use various data collection methods, including interviews, observations, document analysis, and surveys.
Adaptability: Researchers can adapt the case study approach to fit the specific needs and circumstances of the research.

4. Practical Solutions

Actionable Insights: The detailed findings from case studies can inform practical solutions and recommendations for practitioners and policymakers.
Problem-Solving: They help understand the root causes of problems and devise effective strategies to address them.

5. Unique Cases

Rare Phenomena: Case studies are particularly valuable for studying rare or unique cases that other research methods may not capture.
Detailed Documentation: They document and preserve detailed information about specific instances that might otherwise be overlooked.

What Are the Limitations of a Case Study

While case studies offer valuable insights and a detailed understanding of complex issues, they have several limitations .

1. Limited Generalizability

Specific Context: Case studies often focus on a single case or a small number of cases, which may limit the generalization of findings to broader populations or different contexts.
Unique Situations: The unique characteristics of the case may not be representative of other situations, reducing the applicability of the results.

2. Subjectivity

Researcher Bias: The researcher’s perspectives and interpretations can influence the analysis and conclusions, potentially introducing bias.
Participant Bias: Participants’ responses and behaviors may be influenced by their awareness of being studied, known as the Hawthorne effect.

3. Time-Consuming

Data Collection and Analysis: Gathering detailed, in-depth data requires significant time and effort, making case studies more time-consuming than other research methods.
Longitudinal Studies: If the case study observes changes over time, it can become even more prolonged.

4. Resource Intensive

Financial and Human Resources: Conducting comprehensive case studies may require significant financial investment and human resources, including trained researchers and participant access.
Access to Data: Accessing relevant and reliable data sources can be challenging, particularly in sensitive or proprietary contexts.

5. Replication Difficulties

Unique Contexts: A case study’s specific and detailed context makes it difficult to replicate the study exactly, limiting the ability to validate findings through repetition.
Variability: Differences in contexts, researchers, and methodologies can lead to variations in findings, complicating efforts to achieve consistent results.

By acknowledging and addressing these limitations , researchers can enhance the rigor and reliability of their case study findings.

Key Takeaways

Case studies are valuable in research because they provide an in-depth, contextual analysis of a single subject, event, or organization. They allow researchers to explore complex issues in real-world settings, capturing detailed qualitative and quantitative data. This method is useful for generating insights, developing theories, and offering practical solutions to problems. They are versatile, applicable in diverse fields such as business, education, and health, and can complement other research methods by providing rich, contextual evidence. However, their findings may have limited generalizability due to the focus on a specific case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a case study in research?

A case study in research is an impactful tool for gaining a deep understanding of complex issues within their real-life context. It combines various data collection methods and provides rich, detailed insights that can inform theory development and practical applications.

Q: What are the advantages of using case studies in research?

Case studies are a powerful research method, offering advantages such as in-depth analysis, contextual insights, flexibility, rich data, and the ability to handle complex issues. They are particularly valuable for exploring new areas, generating hypotheses, and providing detailed, illustrative examples that can inform theory and practice.

Q: Can case studies be used in quantitative research?

While case studies are predominantly associated with qualitative research, they can effectively incorporate quantitative methods to provide a more comprehensive analysis. A mixed-methods approach leverages qualitative and quantitative research strengths, offering a powerful tool for exploring complex issues in a real-world context. For example , a new medical treatment case study can incorporate quantitative clinical outcomes (e.g., patient recovery rates and dosage levels) along with qualitative patient interviews.

Q: What are the key components of a case study?

A case study typically includes several key components:

Introductio n, which provides an overview and sets the context by presenting the problem statement and research objectives;
Literature review , which connects the study to existing theories and prior research;
Methodology , which details the case study design , data collection methods, and analysis techniques;
Findings , which present the data and results, including descriptions, patterns, and themes;
Discussion and conclusion , which interpret the findings, discuss their implications, and offer conclusions, practical applications, limitations, and suggestions for future research.

Together, these components ensure a comprehensive, systematic, and insightful exploration of the case.

References

de Vries, K. (2020). Case study methodology. In  Critical qualitative health research  (pp. 41-52). Routledge.
Fidel, R. (1984). The case study method: A case study.  Library and Information Science Research ,  6 (3), 273-288.
Thomas, G. (2021). How to do your case study.  How to do your case study , 1-320.

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The Ultimate Guide to Qualitative Research - Part 1: The Basics

Introduction and overview
What is qualitative research?
What is qualitative data?
Examples of qualitative data
Qualitative vs. quantitative research
Mixed methods
Qualitative research preparation
Theoretical perspective
Theoretical framework
Literature reviews

Research question

Conceptual framework
Conceptual vs. theoretical framework

Data collection

Qualitative research methods
Focus groups
Observational research

What is a case study?

Applications for case study research, what is a good case study, process of case study design, benefits and limitations of case studies.

Ethnographical research
Ethical considerations
Confidentiality and privacy
Power dynamics
Reflexivity

Case studies

Case studies are essential to qualitative research , offering a lens through which researchers can investigate complex phenomena within their real-life contexts. This chapter explores the concept, purpose, applications, examples, and types of case studies and provides guidance on how to conduct case study research effectively.

Whereas quantitative methods look at phenomena at scale, case study research looks at a concept or phenomenon in considerable detail. While analyzing a single case can help understand one perspective regarding the object of research inquiry, analyzing multiple cases can help obtain a more holistic sense of the topic or issue. Let's provide a basic definition of a case study, then explore its characteristics and role in the qualitative research process.

Definition of a case study

A case study in qualitative research is a strategy of inquiry that involves an in-depth investigation of a phenomenon within its real-world context. It provides researchers with the opportunity to acquire an in-depth understanding of intricate details that might not be as apparent or accessible through other methods of research. The specific case or cases being studied can be a single person, group, or organization – demarcating what constitutes a relevant case worth studying depends on the researcher and their research question .

Among qualitative research methods , a case study relies on multiple sources of evidence, such as documents, artifacts, interviews , or observations , to present a complete and nuanced understanding of the phenomenon under investigation. The objective is to illuminate the readers' understanding of the phenomenon beyond its abstract statistical or theoretical explanations.

Characteristics of case studies

Case studies typically possess a number of distinct characteristics that set them apart from other research methods. These characteristics include a focus on holistic description and explanation, flexibility in the design and data collection methods, reliance on multiple sources of evidence, and emphasis on the context in which the phenomenon occurs.

Furthermore, case studies can often involve a longitudinal examination of the case, meaning they study the case over a period of time. These characteristics allow case studies to yield comprehensive, in-depth, and richly contextualized insights about the phenomenon of interest.

The role of case studies in research

Case studies are instrumental when the primary research interest is to gain an intensive, detailed understanding of a phenomenon in its real-life context.

In addition, case studies can serve different purposes within research - they can be used for exploratory, descriptive, or explanatory purposes, depending on the research question and objectives. This flexibility and depth make case studies a valuable tool in the toolkit of qualitative researchers.

Remember, a well-conducted case study can offer a rich, insightful contribution to both academic and practical knowledge through theory development or theory verification, thus enhancing our understanding of complex phenomena in their real-world contexts.

What is the purpose of a case study?

Case study research aims for a more comprehensive understanding of phenomena, requiring various research methods to gather information for qualitative analysis . Ultimately, a case study can allow the researcher to gain insight into a particular object of inquiry and develop a theoretical framework relevant to the research inquiry.

Why use case studies in qualitative research?

Using case studies as a research strategy depends mainly on the nature of the research question and the researcher's access to the data.

Conducting case study research provides a level of detail and contextual richness that other research methods might not offer. They are beneficial when there's a need to understand complex social phenomena within their natural contexts.

The explanatory, exploratory, and descriptive roles of case studies

Case studies can take on various roles depending on the research objectives. They can be exploratory when the research aims to discover new phenomena or define new research questions; they are descriptive when the objective is to depict a phenomenon within its context in a detailed manner; and they can be explanatory if the goal is to understand specific relationships within the studied context. Thus, the versatility of case studies allows researchers to approach their topic from different angles, offering multiple ways to uncover and interpret the data .

The impact of case studies on knowledge development

Case studies play a significant role in knowledge development across various disciplines. Analysis of cases provides an avenue for researchers to explore phenomena within their context based on the collected data.

This can result in the production of rich, practical insights that can be instrumental in both theory-building and practice. Case studies allow researchers to look into the intricacies and complexities of real-life situations, uncovering insights that might otherwise remain hidden.

Types of case studies

In qualitative research , a case study is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Depending on the nature of the research question and the specific objectives of the study, researchers might choose to use different types of case studies. These types differ in their focus, methodology, and the level of detail they provide about the phenomenon under investigation.

You should carefully consider the most appropriate approach for your research project and effectively achieve your research goals. Let's briefly look at the main types of case studies.

Exploratory case studies

Exploratory case studies are typically conducted to develop a theory or framework around an understudied phenomenon. They can also serve as a precursor to a larger-scale research project. Exploratory case studies are useful when a researcher wants to identify the key issues or questions which can spur more extensive study or be used to develop propositions for further research. These case studies are characterized by flexibility, allowing researchers to explore various aspects of a phenomenon as they emerge, which can also form the foundation for subsequent studies.

Descriptive case studies

Descriptive case studies aim to provide a complete and accurate representation of a phenomenon or event within its context. These case studies are often based on an established theoretical framework, which guides how data is collected and analyzed. The researcher is concerned with describing the phenomenon in detail, as it occurs naturally, without trying to influence or manipulate it.

Explanatory case studies

Explanatory case studies are focused on explanation - they seek to clarify how or why certain phenomena occur. Often used in complex, real-life situations, they can be particularly valuable in clarifying causal relationships among concepts and understanding the interplay between different factors within a specific context.

Intrinsic, instrumental, and collective case studies

These three categories of case studies focus on the nature and purpose of the study. An intrinsic case study is conducted when a researcher has an inherent interest in the case itself. Instrumental case studies are employed when the case is used to provide insight into a particular issue or phenomenon. A collective case study, on the other hand, involves studying multiple cases simultaneously to investigate some general phenomena.

Each type of case study serves a different purpose and has its own strengths and challenges. The selection of the type should be guided by the research question and objectives, as well as the context and constraints of the research.

The flexibility, depth, and contextual richness offered by case studies make this approach an excellent research method for various fields of study. They enable researchers to investigate real-world phenomena within their specific contexts, capturing nuances that other research methods might miss. Across numerous fields, case studies provide valuable insights into complex issues.

Critical information systems research

Case studies provide a detailed understanding of the role and impact of information systems in different contexts. They offer a platform to explore how information systems are designed, implemented, and used and how they interact with various social, economic, and political factors. Case studies in this field often focus on examining the intricate relationship between technology, organizational processes, and user behavior, helping to uncover insights that can inform better system design and implementation.

Health research

Health research is another field where case studies are highly valuable. They offer a way to explore patient experiences, healthcare delivery processes, and the impact of various interventions in a real-world context.

Case studies can provide a deep understanding of a patient's journey, giving insights into the intricacies of disease progression, treatment effects, and the psychosocial aspects of health and illness.

Asthma research studies

Specifically within medical research, studies on asthma often employ case studies to explore the individual and environmental factors that influence asthma development, management, and outcomes. A case study can provide rich, detailed data about individual patients' experiences, from the triggers and symptoms they experience to the effectiveness of various management strategies. This can be insrumental in developing patient-centered asthma care approaches.

Other fields

Apart from the fields mentioned, case studies are also extensively used in business and management research, education research, and political sciences, among many others. They provide an opportunity to look into the intricacies of real-world situations, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of various phenomena.

Case studies, with their depth and contextual focus, offer unique insights across these varied fields. They allow researchers to illuminate the complexities of real-life situations, contributing to both theory and practice.

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The key elements of case study design determine the rigor and impact of case study research. A well-structured design guides the researcher through the process, ensuring that the study is methodologically sound and its findings are reliable and valid. The main elements of case study design include the research question , propositions, units of analysis, and the logic linking the data to the propositions.

The research question is the foundation of any research study. A good research question guides the direction of the study and informs the selection of the case, the methods of collecting data, and the analysis techniques. A well-formulated research question in case study research is typically clear, focused, and complex enough to merit further detailed examination of the relevant case(s).

Propositions

Propositions, though not necessary in every case study, provide a direction by stating what we might expect to find in the data collected. They guide how data is collected and analyzed by helping researchers focus on specific aspects of the case. They are particularly important in explanatory case studies, which seek to understand the relationships among concepts within the studied phenomenon.

Units of analysis

The unit of analysis refers to the case, or the main entity or entities that are being analyzed in the study. In case study research, the unit of analysis can be an individual, a group, an organization, a decision, an event, or even a time period. Make sure to clearly define the unit of analysis, as it shapes the qualitative data analysis process by allowing the researcher to analyze a particular case and synthesize analysis across multiple case studies to draw conclusions.

Argumentation

This refers to the inferential model that allows researchers to draw conclusions from the data. The researcher needs to ensure that there is a clear link between the data, the propositions (if any), and the conclusions drawn. This argumentation is what enables the researcher to make valid and credible inferences about the phenomenon under study.

Understanding and carefully considering these elements in the design phase of a case study can significantly enhance the quality of the research. It can help ensure that the study is methodologically sound and its findings contribute meaningful insights about the case.

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Conducting a case study involves several steps, from defining the research question and selecting the case to collecting and analyzing data . This section outlines these key stages, providing a practical guide on how to conduct case study research.

Defining the research question

The first step in case study research is defining a clear, focused research question. This question should guide the entire research process, from case selection to analysis. Ensure that the research question is suitable for a case study approach. Typically, such questions are exploratory or descriptive in nature and focus on understanding a phenomenon within its real-life context.

Selecting and defining the case

The selection of the case should be based on the research question and the objectives of the study. It involves choosing a unique example or a set of examples that provide rich, in-depth data about the phenomenon under investigation. After selecting the case, define it clearly, setting the boundaries of the case, including the time period and the specific context.

Previous research can help guide the case study design. When considering a case study, an example of a case could be taken from previous case study research and used to define cases in a new research inquiry. Considering recently published examples can help understand how to select and define cases effectively.

Developing a detailed case study protocol

A case study protocol outlines the procedures and general rules to be followed during the case study. This includes the data collection methods to be used, the sources of data, and the procedures for analysis. Having a detailed case study protocol ensures consistency and reliability in the study.

The protocol should also consider how to work with the people involved in the research context to grant the research team access to collecting data. As mentioned in previous sections of this guide, establishing rapport is an essential component of qualitative research as it shapes the overall potential for collecting and analyzing data.

Collecting data

Gathering data in case study research often involves multiple sources of evidence, including documents, archival records, interviews, observations, and physical artifacts. This allows for a comprehensive understanding of the case. The process for gathering data should be systematic and carefully documented to ensure the reliability and validity of the study.

Analyzing and interpreting data

The next step is analyzing the data. This involves organizing the data , categorizing it into themes or patterns , and interpreting these patterns to answer the research question. The analysis might also involve comparing the findings with prior research or theoretical propositions.

Writing the case study report

The final step is writing the case study report . This should provide a detailed description of the case, the data, the analysis process, and the findings. The report should be clear, organized, and carefully written to ensure that the reader can understand the case and the conclusions drawn from it.

Each of these steps ensures that the case study research is rigorous, reliable, and provides valuable insights about the case.

The type, depth, and quality of data in your study can significantly influence the validity and utility of the study. In case study research, data is usually collected from multiple sources to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the case. This section will outline the various methods of collecting data used in case study research and discuss considerations for ensuring the quality of the data.

Interviews are a common method of gathering data in case study research. They can provide rich, in-depth data about the perspectives, experiences, and interpretations of the individuals involved in the case. Interviews can be structured , semi-structured , or unstructured , depending on the research question and the degree of flexibility needed.

Observations

Observations involve the researcher observing the case in its natural setting, providing first-hand information about the case and its context. Observations can provide data that might not be revealed in interviews or documents, such as non-verbal cues or contextual information.

Documents and artifacts

Documents and archival records provide a valuable source of data in case study research. They can include reports, letters, memos, meeting minutes, email correspondence, and various public and private documents related to the case.

These records can provide historical context, corroborate evidence from other sources, and offer insights into the case that might not be apparent from interviews or observations.

Physical artifacts refer to any physical evidence related to the case, such as tools, products, or physical environments. These artifacts can provide tangible insights into the case, complementing the data gathered from other sources.

Ensuring the quality of data collection

Determining the quality of data in case study research requires careful planning and execution. Ensure that the data is reliable, accurate, and relevant to the research question. This involves selecting appropriate methods of collecting data, properly training interviewers or observers, and systematically recording and storing the data. It also includes considering ethical issues related to collecting and handling data, such as obtaining informed consent and ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of the participants.

Data analysis

Analyzing case study research involves making sense of the rich, detailed data to answer the research question. This process can be challenging due to the volume and complexity of case study data. However, a systematic and rigorous approach to analysis can ensure that the findings are credible and meaningful. This section outlines the main steps and considerations in analyzing data in case study research.

Organizing the data

The first step in the analysis is organizing the data. This involves sorting the data into manageable sections, often according to the data source or the theme. This step can also involve transcribing interviews, digitizing physical artifacts, or organizing observational data.

Categorizing and coding the data

Once the data is organized, the next step is to categorize or code the data. This involves identifying common themes, patterns, or concepts in the data and assigning codes to relevant data segments. Coding can be done manually or with the help of software tools, and in either case, qualitative analysis software can greatly facilitate the entire coding process. Coding helps to reduce the data to a set of themes or categories that can be more easily analyzed.

Identifying patterns and themes

After coding the data, the researcher looks for patterns or themes in the coded data. This involves comparing and contrasting the codes and looking for relationships or patterns among them. The identified patterns and themes should help answer the research question.

Interpreting the data

Once patterns and themes have been identified, the next step is to interpret these findings. This involves explaining what the patterns or themes mean in the context of the research question and the case. This interpretation should be grounded in the data, but it can also involve drawing on theoretical concepts or prior research.

Verification of the data

The last step in the analysis is verification. This involves checking the accuracy and consistency of the analysis process and confirming that the findings are supported by the data. This can involve re-checking the original data, checking the consistency of codes, or seeking feedback from research participants or peers.

Like any research method , case study research has its strengths and limitations. Researchers must be aware of these, as they can influence the design, conduct, and interpretation of the study.

Understanding the strengths and limitations of case study research can also guide researchers in deciding whether this approach is suitable for their research question . This section outlines some of the key strengths and limitations of case study research.

Benefits include the following:

Rich, detailed data: One of the main strengths of case study research is that it can generate rich, detailed data about the case. This can provide a deep understanding of the case and its context, which can be valuable in exploring complex phenomena.
Flexibility: Case study research is flexible in terms of design , data collection , and analysis . A sufficient degree of flexibility allows the researcher to adapt the study according to the case and the emerging findings.
Real-world context: Case study research involves studying the case in its real-world context, which can provide valuable insights into the interplay between the case and its context.
Multiple sources of evidence: Case study research often involves collecting data from multiple sources , which can enhance the robustness and validity of the findings.

On the other hand, researchers should consider the following limitations:

Generalizability: A common criticism of case study research is that its findings might not be generalizable to other cases due to the specificity and uniqueness of each case.
Time and resource intensive: Case study research can be time and resource intensive due to the depth of the investigation and the amount of collected data.
Complexity of analysis: The rich, detailed data generated in case study research can make analyzing the data challenging.
Subjectivity: Given the nature of case study research, there may be a higher degree of subjectivity in interpreting the data , so researchers need to reflect on this and transparently convey to audiences how the research was conducted.

Being aware of these strengths and limitations can help researchers design and conduct case study research effectively and interpret and report the findings appropriately.

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COMMENTS

Psychology Module 1.3: Research Methods Flashcards | Quizlet
Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like What are the research methods of psychology?, what is the case study method?, how is the case study method used? and more. hello quizlet
7 Types of Case Study Methods - Definition and Examples
Illustrative Case Study. An illustrative case study is used to examine a familiar case to help others understand it. It is one of the main types of case studies in research methodology and is primarily descriptive. In this type of case study, usually, one or two instances are used to explain what a situation is like.
Case Study - Methods, Examples and Guide - Research Method
Mar 26, 2024 · Examples of Case Study Applications. Business Case Study. Objective: To understand the success factors of a high-growth tech company. Methods: Interviews with key executives, analysis of internal reports, and customer satisfaction surveys. Outcome: Insights into unique management practices and customer engagement strategies. Education Case Study
Research Methods: Interview, Observations, Schedule ...
Aug 26, 2021 · Assumptions of case study method. The assumptions made in a case study method are as follows: Case study depends on the imagination of the investigator who is analysing the case study. The investigator makes up his procedure as he goes along. History related to the case is complete and as coherent as it could be.
Case Study Method – Research Methods and Field work
The case study method was first used in the clinical medicine so that the doctor has a clear understanding of the history of the patient. Various methods can be used in a case study for example a psychologist use observation to observe the individual, use interview method to broaden the understanding.
Library Guides: Research Methodologies Guide: Case Studies
Sep 11, 2024 · It refers to a type of research in which a case (an event, issue, population, or other item being studied) is analyzed, often through the use of multiple methods of analysis. Tools commonly used in case studies include: Surveys; Interviews; Observations; Artifacts; And more! For more information about case studies, review the resources below:
Case Study Methodology of Qualitative Research: Key ...
Nov 19, 2020 · This article attempts to look into the various dimensions of a case study research strategy, the different epistemological strands which determine the particular case study type and approach adopted in the field, discusses the factors which can enhance the effectiveness of a case study research, and the debate surrounding the role of a case ...
Case Study Method | Characteristics, Types, Steps, Advantages
Intensive Study: Case-study research entails a comprehensive investigation into one or a select few cases, meticulously exploring the nuances of each case and its contextual backdrop. Its objective is to dissect both the particular elements within each case and the wider situational variables.
What is a Case Study in Research? Definition, Methods, and ...
Jun 27, 2024 · Here are some examples of when to use a case study:[2] Exploratory Research: When you want to explore a new topic or phenomenon, a case study can help you understand the subject deeply. For example, a researcher studying a newly discovered plant species might use a case study to document its characteristics and behavior.
What is a Case Study? | Examples, Definition & Process
This section will outline the various methods of collecting data used in case study research and discuss considerations for ensuring the quality of the data. Interviews. Interviews are a common method of gathering data in case study research. They can provide rich, in-depth data about the perspectives, experiences, and interpretations of the ...

Understand the 7 Types of Case Study Here

Understanding Case Studies

What are the Types of Case Study?

Illustrative Case Study

Types of Subjects of Case Study

Types Of Case Study Designs

Types Of Case Study Interviews

Types Of Case Study Research Designs

Benefits of Case Study for Students

Real-world Application

Critical Thinking Skills

Enhanced Problem-solving Abilities

Holistic Understanding

Exposure to Diverse Perspectives

Frequently Asked Questions

What are 4 types of case study in sociology?

Keep reading

Case Study – Methods, Examples and Guide

Types of Case Studies

1. Exploratory Case Study

2. Descriptive Case Study

3. Explanatory Case Study

4. Intrinsic Case Study

5. Instrumental Case Study

Methods of Conducting a Case Study

1. Interviews

2. Observations

3. Document Analysis

Case Study Guide: Step-by-Step Process

Step 2: Select the Case(s)

Step 3: Determine the Data Collection Methods

Step 4: Collect Data

Step 5: Analyze the Data

Step 6: Interpret Findings

Step 7: Report Results

Examples of Case Study Applications

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

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Use of observation in business research

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Advantages of Case Study Method

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