This presentation by Dr. Roma Smart Joseph (Dept. of B.Ed., Isabella Thoburn College, Lucknow, UP) provides an in-depth overview of case study research methodology, covering its definition, types, strengths, limitations, selection process, and steps.
Key Points:
Definition of Case Studies:
Gravett...
This presentation by Dr. Roma Smart Joseph (Dept. of B.Ed., Isabella Thoburn College, Lucknow, UP) provides an in-depth overview of case study research methodology, covering its definition, types, strengths, limitations, selection process, and steps.
Key Points:
Definition of Case Studies:
Gravetter & Forzano define it as an in-depth examination of an individual, group, or event used in psychology and social sciences.
Cohen, Manion, & Morrison describe it as a specific instance illustrating a broader principle within a bounded system.
Key Features:
In-depth Analysis of a single case.
Focus on Unique Cases, including rare or complex phenomena.
Rich Data Collection, combining qualitative and quantitative methods.
Types of Case Studies:
Exploratory: Investigates new areas with limited prior research.
Descriptive: Documents and describes a phenomenon.
Explanatory: Analyzes cause-and-effect relationships in real-world contexts.
Size: 7.69 MB
Language: en
Added: Feb 10, 2025
Slides: 9 pages
Slide Content
Case Study Research: A Comprehensive Guide Case studies are a powerful research method used to explore complex phenomena in depth. They offer rich insights into individuals, groups, or events, providing a nuanced understanding of real-world situations. by Dr. R oma Smart Joseph Professor Dept. of B.Ed. Isabella Thoburn College Lucknow UP
Defining Case Studies Gravetter and Forzano Define a case study as an in-depth examination of a single individual, group, or event, often used in psychological and social research to explore rare or unique cases. Cohen, Manion, and Morrison Describe a case study as "a specific instance that is frequently designed to illustrate a more general principle," focusing on a bounded system like a child, a clique, or a school.
Key Features of Case Studies In-depth Analysis Case studies involve a detailed, comprehensive examination of a single individual, group, or event. Focus on Unique Cases They often focus on rare, unique, or complex situations that can't easily be studied through other methods. Rich Data Case studies typically gather both qualitative and quantitative data, providing a nuanced and multi-dimensional understanding of the subject.
Case Study : Types 1 Exploratory Case Study Used to explore new areas where little research has been done. Helps generate hypotheses for future studies. 2 Descriptive Case Study Provides a detailed account of a phenomenon. Focuses on what is happening rather than why. 3 Explanatory Case Study Investigates causal relationships within real-world situations. Answers “why” and “how” questions.
Case Study Strengths and Limitations Strengths Provides rich, detailed insights into complex phenomena. Offers a unique perspective on real-world situations . Can be used to explore rare or unique cases. Can establish cause and effect relationships. Limitations May be prone to bias. Results may not be easily generalizable to larger populations. Limited control over variables.
Case Study Selection Researchers select cases that are critical or exceptional, known for their extraordinary functioning, performance, growth, or development. They may also choose cases with undiscovered features or unexplored history that need to be assessed or evaluated.
Steps in Case Study Research Identifying Research Questions Clearly define the research questions that will guide the study. Setting Research Design Determine the approach for answering the research questions, including participant selection and data collection methods. Data Collection Gather data through interviews, observations, documents, and other relevant sources. Data Analysis Analyze the collected data to identify patterns, themes, and insights. Drawing Conclusions Formulate conclusions based on the analysis, providing recommendations or suggestions for the case studied.
Case Study Report A case study report should provide a rich and vivid description of the events relevant to the case, blending a description of events with an analysis of them. It should also focus on individual actors or groups of actors and seek to understand their perception of events.
References Yin , R. K. (2018). Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods (6th ed.). SAGE Publications. Robert Yin's work is foundational in case study research, offering comprehensive guidance on design and methodology. Stake, R. E. (1995). The Art of Case Study Research . SAGE Publications. Robert Stake emphasizes the qualitative aspects of case studies, focusing on the art of conducting them effectively. Merriam, S. B. (1998). Qualitative Research and Case Study Applications in Education . Jossey -Bass. Sharan Merriam provides insights into applying case study methods specifically within educational research. Eisenhardt , K. M. (1989). "Building Theories from Case Study Research." Academy of Management Review , 14(4), 532-550 Walsham , G. (1995). "Interpretive Case Studies in IS Research: Nature and Method . " European Journal of Information Systems , 4(2), 74-81. Geoff Walsham explores interpretive approaches in case study research within information systems. Flyvbjerg , B. (2006). "Five Misunderstandings About Case-Study Research." Qualitative Inquiry , 12(2), 219-245. Bent Flyvbjerg addresses common misconceptions about case study research and clarifies its strengths. Baxter, P., & Jack, S. (2008). "Qualitative Case Study Methodology: Study Design and Implementation for Novice Researchers . " The Qualitative Report , 13(4), 544-559.