Definition of a Case Study
A case study is an intensive, in-depth investigation of a single instance or a small number of instances of a phenomenon. These instances, or 'cases,' can be individuals, groups, organizations, events, or even entire communities. The primary goal is to gain a deep understanding of the subject, often within its real-world context.
Key Characteristics and Approach
Unlike experiments or surveys that focus on broad patterns, case studies emphasize detailed observation, rich description, and holistic analysis. They typically employ multiple data collection methods, such as interviews, direct observations, document analysis, and sometimes quantitative data, to build a comprehensive picture of the chosen case.
Practical Examples of Case Studies
In medicine, a case study might examine a patient with a rare neurological condition to understand its symptoms and progression. In engineering, it could involve analyzing the failure of a specific bridge to learn about design flaws and material weaknesses. In business, a case study might explore a company's successful marketing strategy to identify replicable elements.
Importance and Applications in Science
Case studies are crucial for exploring complex issues, generating new hypotheses, and testing existing theories in unique contexts. They are particularly valuable when researchers need to understand 'how' or 'why' something occurred, or when a phenomenon is rare or difficult to study in a larger population. They provide rich, contextual insights often missed by broader, quantitative studies.