Case study

Definition

A case study is an in-depth investigation of a particular individual, group, event, or situation to explore complex issues in their real-life context. This method allows researchers to gather detailed qualitative data and insights that can help understand patterns and generate hypotheses, particularly in social policy evaluation. Case studies can provide a rich narrative and contextual background that numbers alone cannot convey, thus bridging quantitative and qualitative evaluation techniques.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Case studies can be used to examine both successful interventions and failures, providing valuable lessons for future policy-making.
2. They are particularly useful in exploratory research where existing theories may not fully explain observed phenomena.
3. Case studies often employ multiple data collection methods, such as interviews, observations, and document analysis, to build a comprehensive understanding.
4. The findings from case studies are typically not generalizable to all cases but can inform broader theories or practices.
5. Ethical considerations are crucial in case studies, especially when dealing with sensitive subjects or vulnerable populations.

Review Questions

• How does a case study contribute to understanding the complexities of social policies?
  • A case study contributes significantly by providing an in-depth examination of specific instances where social policies have been applied. This method allows for the exploration of unique contextual factors and the diverse impacts of these policies on individuals and communities. By analyzing real-life scenarios, researchers can identify patterns and relationships that may not be evident through quantitative methods alone.
• Discuss how case studies can be integrated with quantitative evaluation techniques to enhance research outcomes.
  • Integrating case studies with quantitative evaluation techniques can lead to more robust research outcomes. For instance, quantitative data can provide a broad overview of trends and patterns, while case studies offer detailed context that helps explain those trends. This triangulation enriches the analysis and enables researchers to validate findings from different perspectives, resulting in a more comprehensive understanding of social phenomena.
• Evaluate the implications of using case studies in policy evaluation regarding ethical considerations and generalizability.
  • Using case studies in policy evaluation raises important ethical considerations, particularly when involving vulnerable populations or sensitive issues. Researchers must ensure informed consent and protect participants' confidentiality while gathering data. However, a challenge arises regarding generalizability; findings from a single case study may not apply to all situations. This limitation necessitates careful interpretation and suggests that while case studies provide rich insights, they should be complemented with broader research approaches to inform policy development effectively.

Related terms

qualitative research: A method of inquiry that seeks to understand human behavior by exploring the reasons behind it, often using interviews, focus groups, or observation.

quantitative research: A systematic investigation that primarily focuses on quantifying relationships, behaviors, or phenomena using statistical, mathematical, or computational techniques.

triangulation: The use of multiple methods or data sources in research to enhance the credibility and validity of findings.