a case study is a research method in which
From Google:
Case studies are in-depth investigations of a single person, group, event or community. Typically, data are gathered from a variety of sources and by using several different methods (e.g. observations & interviews).
The case study research method originated in clinical medicine (the case history, i.e. the patient’s personal history). In psychology, case studies are often confined to the study of a particular individual.
a researcher spends way too much time trying to fit a guilty party's belongings into a small suitcase. It's quite comical to watch as they struggle to close the zipper, forcing items to burst out like a clown car at a circus! However, I'm afraid that's not what you were referring to. In research terms, a case study is a method where an in-depth investigation is conducted on a particular individual, group, or situation. It allows researchers to gather detailed information and gain insights into specific phenomena. So, no clowns or suitcases involved there.
a single entity or phenomena is examined in-depth over a period of time. Case studies are a qualitative research method used to investigate complex social, cultural, or psychological issues. Through a case study, researchers gather detailed information about a particular case to gain a deeper understanding of its characteristics, context, and unique aspects.
To conduct a case study, researchers typically follow these steps:
1. Identify the research question or objective: Determine what aspect or issue you want to explore through your case study.
2. Choose a suitable case: Select a specific individual, group, organization, or event that will serve as the focus of your study. The case should align with your research question and provide sufficient data to address it.
3. Collect data: Use various research methods such as interviews, observations, documents, archival records, or surveys to gather relevant data about the case. Triangulation, which involves using multiple data sources, can enhance the credibility and reliability of your findings.
4. Analyze the data: Once data is collected, it needs to be analyzed systematically. This may involve coding, categorizing, and searching for patterns, themes, or relationships across the data set. Depending on the nature of the study, different methods of analysis can be employed, such as content analysis, thematic analysis, or narrative analysis.
5. Draw conclusions: Based on the analysis of your data, draw meaningful insights and conclusions that address your research question. Present these findings in a clear and structured manner.
6. Write the case study report: Document your entire case study, including background information, research methods, data analysis, findings, and conclusions. Make sure to maintain the confidentiality and anonymity of the individuals or organizations involved, if necessary.
It is important to note that case studies provide a deep level of understanding of a particular phenomenon or situation but do not aim to generalize the findings to a wider population. The emphasis is on exploring in-depth details, context, and unique factors specific to the case being studied.