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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.

Case Study - Selection Criteria

A case selection based on representativeness may not generate revealing insights. Researchers, therefore, prefer information-oriented sampling, as opposed to...

Criteria for selecting a case study.

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Explain case study as a method of social research

February 18, 2024 entranciology IGNOU Assignments Questions and Answers , IGNOU Questions and Answers , M.A. (Sociology) Assignment Questions and Answers , M.A. (Sociology) Questions and Answers 0

Case study is a qualitative research method that involves an in-depth, comprehensive examination of a specific phenomenon, individual, group, organization, or community within its real-life context. Case studies are characterized by their focus on rich, detailed descriptions, holistic understanding, and exploration of complex relationships and processes. This method allows researchers to explore and understand the unique characteristics, dynamics, and intricacies of the case under study, providing valuable insights into social phenomena and contributing to theoretical development and knowledge generation in the field of social research.

Key Characteristics of Case Study Method

Holistic Approach: Case studies take a holistic approach to research, focusing on the totality of the case under study rather than isolating specific variables or aspects. Researchers aim to understand the case in its entirety, considering multiple dimensions, perspectives, and contextual factors that influence the phenomenon being studied.

In-depth Exploration: Case studies involve in-depth exploration and analysis of the case, allowing researchers to delve deeply into the complexities and intricacies of the phenomenon. Researchers collect rich, detailed data through various methods such as interviews, observations, document analysis, and archival research to gain a comprehensive understanding of the case.

Contextualized Understanding: Case studies emphasize the importance of context in understanding social phenomena. Researchers examine the unique social, cultural, historical, and environmental context in which the case is situated, recognizing the influence of context on shaping individuals’ behaviours, interactions, and experiences.

Qualitative Data Collection: Case studies primarily rely on qualitative data collection methods to gather rich, nuanced data that capture the depth and complexity of the case. Qualitative methods such as interviews, focus groups, participant observation, and document analysis are commonly used to collect data from multiple sources and perspectives.

Inductive Approach: Case studies often adopt an inductive approach to data analysis, allowing themes, patterns, and relationships to emerge from the data rather than imposing preconceived categories or hypotheses. Researchers engage in systematic and rigorous analysis of qualitative data to identify key themes, develop conceptual frameworks, and generate new insights.

Steps Involved in Conducting a Case Study

Identifying the Case: Researchers select a specific case or unit of analysis that is relevant to their research questions and objectives. The case may be an individual, group, organization, community, or phenomenon of interest.

Defining the Scope: Researchers define the boundaries and scope of the case study, determining the specific aspects or dimensions of the case to be examined. They clarify the research questions, objectives, and goals of the study to guide data collection and analysis.

Data Collection: Researchers collect qualitative data through various methods such as interviews, observations, document analysis, and archival research. They engage with multiple sources and perspectives to gather rich, detailed data that provide insights into the case under study.

Data Analysis: Researchers engage in systematic and rigorous analysis of qualitative data, using techniques such as thematic analysis, content analysis, and narrative analysis. They identify key themes, patterns, and relationships in the data, and develop conceptual frameworks or models to interpret the findings.

Interpretation and Reporting: Researchers interpret the findings of the case study, drawing conclusions and making connections between the data and theoretical concepts. They present their findings in a comprehensive and detailed manner, using rich descriptions, quotations, and examples to illustrate key points. The findings of the case study contribute to theoretical development, empirical knowledge, and practical implications in the field of social research.

Strengths of Case Study Method

Rich, Detailed Data: Case studies provide rich, detailed data that capture the depth and complexity of social phenomena, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the case under study.

Contextualized Understanding: Case studies emphasize the importance of context in understanding social phenomena, allowing researchers to explore the influence of social, cultural, and environmental factors on the case.

Holistic Approach: Case studies take a holistic approach to research, considering multiple dimensions, perspectives, and contextual factors that shape the case under study.

Inductive Approach: Case studies adopt an inductive approach to data analysis, allowing themes, patterns, and relationships to emerge from the data rather than imposing preconceived categories or hypotheses.

Theory Building: Case studies contribute to theoretical development by generating new insights, conceptual frameworks, and theoretical propositions based on empirical data.

Limitations of Case Study Method

Limited Generalizability: The findings of case studies may have limited generalizability beyond the specific case or context under study, as they focus on unique, individual cases rather than representative samples.

Subjectivity and Bias: Case studies are susceptible to researcher subjectivity and bias, as researchers’ interpretations and judgments may influence the analysis and interpretation of data.

Time and Resource Intensive: Case studies can be time and resource-intensive, requiring significant investments of time, money, and personnel to collect and analyze qualitative data.

Difficulty in Replication: Case studies may be difficult to replicate, as they involve the study of unique, individual cases that may not be easily accessible or replicable in other settings.

Ethical Considerations: Case studies raise ethical considerations related to informed consent, privacy, and confidentiality, particularly when studying sensitive or vulnerable populations.

In conclusion, case study is a valuable method of social research that provides rich, detailed insights into complex social phenomena. While case studies have strengths such as providing rich, contextualized data, taking a holistic approach, and contributing to theory building, they also have limitations such as limited generalizability, susceptibility to bias, and time and resource intensity. Researchers need to carefully consider the strengths and limitations of case study method and use it judiciously to address research questions and objectives in the field of social research.

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Criteria and misconceptions of case studies

Post author: IGNOU ASSIGNMENT WALA
Post published: July 12, 2023
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NATURE OF CASE STUDY Case study provides a systematic and scientific way of perceiving or examining events, collect data, analyse information, and prepare a report. As a result the researcher may gain a sharpened understanding of why the instance happened as it did, and what might become important to look at more extensively in future research. Case studies lend themselves to both generating and testing hypotheses. In other words, case study should be defined as a research strategy, an empirical inquiry that investigates a phenomenon within its real-life context. Case study research means single and multiple case studies, can include quantitative evidence, relies on multiple sources of evidence and benefits from the prior development of theoretical propositions. Case studies based on any evidence of quantitative and qualitative research. Single subject-research provides the statistical framework for making inferences from quantitative case-study data. According to Lamnek (2005) “The case study is a research approach, situated between concrete data taking techniques and methodologic paradigms.” In the past years, case study method was used in the field of clinical psychology to examine the patient’s previous history regarding the person’s mental health status. To know about the patient’s physical and mental health, and to make an accurate diagnosis, it is very important to know about the patient’s past and present health related and environmental problems and issues. Psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud used case study method to assist his subjects in solving personality problems. The detailed accounts of interviews with subjects and his interpretations of their thoughts, dreams and action provide excellent examples of case studies. Guidance counselors, social workers and other practitioners conduct case studies for diagnosing particular condition or problem and recommending remedial measures. They collect data from a particular individual and confine their interest to the individual as a unique case or collect data from a small group of individuals, which form a unit for depth study. The case study approach is based on reality. Some of these studies have been conducted in school environment, which have mostly centered on behavioural problems of children. Observation, interviews, psychological tests and inventories have been used for collecting relevant data about the case or cases. However, subjective bias is a constant threat to objective data gathering and analysis techniques. The researcher must be thoroughly familiar with the skills which are associated with the conduct of case-studies CRITERIA FOR SELECTION OF CASE STUDY For selection of cases for the case study, we often use information oriented sampling. Our cases are based on this only information, which is mostly based on the extreme cases or typical cases. The average case is often not the richest in information. Extreme or a typical case reveals more information because they activate more basic mechanisms and more actors in the situation studied. In addition, from both understanding oriented and action oriented perspectives, it is often more important to clarify the deeper causes behind a given problem and its consequences, than to describe the symptoms of the problem and how frequently they occur, etc. Random samples emphasising representativeness will seldom be able to produce this kind of insight. It is more appropriate to select a few cases for their validity, but this is not always the case. Three types of information oriented cases may be distinguished: • Critical cases • Extreme or deviant cases • Paradigmatic cases MISCONCEPTION ABOUT CASE STUDY There is little misconception about the case study for using in research work. Flyvbjerg (2006) define five misconceptions about case study research: 1) Generally, theoretical knowledge is more valuable than concrete, practical knowledge, because one cannot generalise on the basis of an individual case and, therefore, the case study cannot contribute to scientific development. 2) The case study is most useful for generating hypotheses, whereas other methods are more suitable for hypotheses testing and theory building. 3) The case study may affect the bias tendency toward verification, i.e., a tendency to confirm the researcher’s preconceived notions. 4) Some time it is difficult to summarise and develop general propositions and theories on the basis of specific case studies

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