Case Study research
Introduction
Researchers and scholars use various research methods and approaches in conducting their research. The choice of the method or approach is dependent on the objective of the research and the available resources. One of the research approaches commonly applied is case study.
Case Study Definition
Case study is a detailed and informative examination of a subject of study and related contextual condition. In this scenario, the subject is ‘the case’ (Thomas, 2011). The case can be an organisation, an individual, action or event existing in a given place and time.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Case Study
Just like other forms of research approaches, case study has its pros and cons. One of the advantages of the approach is that it is simple to conduct. Case studies are simple to conduct and they simplify complex approaches that are used in other research methods. On the other hand, case studies are the best approaches to developing new research as they provide gaps in the current research that can be used to inform new research (Meyer, 2015). Also, case studies allow for an intensive study of a given unit because they have a provision for thorough investigation and exploration. Don't use plagiarised sources.Get your custom essay just from $11/page
On the disadvantages, case studies are much inclined to the position of the individual conducting the study and one might present it in one manner missing other aspects completely. Also, there is a problem of validation of solutions obtained from case studies as there are no particular right answers to a case study.
Reasons for Using Case Study
The reason for the use of case study as a research method is because it allows for detailed understanding and exploration of complex issues (Gerring, 2006). As a result, a researcher is able to go beyond the available statistical results and get a perspective of the behavioural conditions.
Acquisition of Data/Information for Case Study
In acquiring data for case study, multiple data collection methods can be applied including observation, interview, focus groups and analysis of secondary records. The essence here is to get information relating to the subject of the study.
Conclusion
Case study is a rather effective method especially when it is used in finding gaps within other researches for further studies and research. However, using case study alone might not be effective due to the issue of validation of acquired results as sometimes the results are biased based on the inclination of the researcher.
References
Gerring, J. (2006). Case study research: Principles and practices. Cambridge university press.
Meyer, B. (2015). Case studies. In Researching Translation and Interpreting (pp. 195-202). Routledge.
Thomas, G. (2011). A typology for the case study in social science following a review of definition, discourse, and structure. Qualitative inquiry, 17(6), 511-521.
Yin, R. K. (2011). Applications of case study research. sage.