Case Studies as Qualitative Research

Case Studies as Qualitative Research

1. Definition

   • Empirical inquiry that investigates a comtemporary pehnomenon within its real life context
     • Defined by its especial features
       • Particularistic
       • Descriptive
       • Heuristic

2. Types of qualitative case studies

   • Overall indent
     • *Descriptive case study
     • *Interpretive case studies
     • *Evaluative case studies
   • Disciplinary orientation
     • *Ethnographic case study
       • Anthropology
     • *Historical case study
       • Historiography
     • *Psychological case study
       • Psychology
     • *Sociological case studies
       • Sociology

3. Strengths

   • Predictive nature of the research findings
   • Investigating complex social units
   • Advancing a field´s knowledge base
   • Appealing design for applied fields of study

4. Limitations

   • Resources (time and money)
   • Case study narratives
   • Sensitivity and integrity of the investigator
   • Problem of ethics
   • Reliability, validity and generalizability