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Research Methodology: Case Studies

Defining the Research Method

WHAT IS A CASE STUDY?

A case study is an in-depth investigation of a single individual, group, or event to explore complex issues that cannot be captured through other research methods.

Data Acquisition Methods

Data can be collected using multiple holistic methods, aiming to gather rich, qualitative data that provides detailed insight into the case.

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Interviews

Direct communication.
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Observations

Behavior recording.
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Psychological Testing

Standardized assessment.
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Archival Records

Existing documentation.

Key Applications

VALUE OF CASE STUDIES: Case studies are particularly valuable when studying rare or unique phenomena, such as brain injuries, rare psychological conditions, or extraordinary talents.

Strengths vs. Weaknesses

The focused nature of case studies helps generate theories but limits their application in broad scientific generalization.

The Strengths The richness of case study data helps generate hypotheses and theories.
The Limitations Limited generalizability due to the focus on just one or a few cases. They are also time-consuming and can be subject to researcher bias.
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Case Study Basics Deck
Term
What is a case study?

Q: What is a case study?

Answer
Definition

A: An in-depth investigation of a single individual, group, or event to explore complex issues.

Term
Data Collection Methods

Q: What types of data collection methods are used in case studies?

Answer
Methods

A: Interviews, observations, psychological testing, archival records, and self-reports.

Term
Value of Case Studies

Q: Why are case studies valuable?

Answer
Value

A: They are useful for studying rare or unique phenomena that other methods cannot capture.

Term
Limitations

Q: What is a limitation of case studies?

Answer
Limitation

A: They have limited generalizability and can be subject to researcher bias.

Term
Data Collection Approach

Q: How does the case study approach collect data?

Answer
Approach

A: Holistically, aiming to gather rich, qualitative data for detailed insight.

📚 Case Study Research Quiz

1. What best describes a case study?

Case studies focus on detailed exploration of a single individual, group, or event.

2. Which of the following is NOT commonly used to obtain data in case studies?

Case studies rely on qualitative methods rather than experimental controls.

3. What is a key advantage of case studies?

Case studies are valuable for exploring phenomena that are uncommon or complex.

4. What is a main limitation of case studies?

Due to the focus on few cases, findings may not apply broadly.

📊 Results