Case studies are a powerful research method, as they provide insight into phenomena that would be impossible to learn from any other source. Furthermore, they allow researchers to adapt their ideas to other similar situations and develop novel hypotheses. Compared to other research methods, case studies are inexpensive and can collect a great deal of detailed information. Here are some of their advantages:
Case studies provide insight into phenomena that cannot be learned in any other way
A case study is a form of qualitative research where a specific phenomenon is investigated. It provides a unique context that allows the researcher to focus on a small subset of the entire phenomenon, and may use both quantitative and qualitative data to gain an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon. Sandelowski suggests that this method should be used to study holistic nursing care, since it enables researchers to focus on specific phenomena rather than focusing on one aspect of a whole.
They allow researchers to adapt ideas and produce novel hypotheses
The case study is an established research design that helps researchers develop in-depth understandings of complex issues. Case studies can be narrowly focused on a specific situation or broaden their focus to a larger context. They are also useful for analyzing processes and phenomena within everyday contexts. They also provide valuable insights into pathways, causal relationships, and service development. And because they use real-world examples, case studies are an ideal way to conduct qualitative research.
They are inexpensive compared to other methods of research
The main disadvantage of case studies is the cost of conducting the research. The method is quite expensive, especially when compared to other methods. On the other hand, case studies are an effective method of collecting detailed information. The case study method requires careful selection of case studies as they provide detailed information without the high costs of other research methods. The cost of conducting a case study largely depends on the skill level and skills of the researcher.
They allow for a lot of detail to be collected
There are many types of case studies, but the most common is the descriptive, or illustrative, type. These studies use a single or two instances of an event to give the reader a sense of what it is like to experience the same situation. They also allow for detailed description, which makes it easier for readers to relate to the study. An illustrative case study is often conducted before a more extensive investigation. These studies help identify questions to ask, and to select measurement methods. However, they can also prematurely release conclusions.
They can be used in any discipline
The advantage of case studies is that they can be utilized in any discipline. This is particularly useful for classes that study the application of knowledge in real-world settings. In medicine, a case study might focus on a single patient, while a case study in business might concentrate on a firm’s strategy and the wider market. In politics, a case study could focus on a single event or large undertaking.