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Case Study Research and Applications

Case Study Research and Applications Design and Methods

  • Robert K. Yin - COSMOS Corporation
  • Description

Supplements

Password-protected Instructor Resources include the following:

  • An expanded glossary provided by the author in the form of downloadable Briefs.
  • Additional tutorials written by the author which correspond to Chapters 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6.
  • A selection of author Robert Yin's SAGE journal articles.
  • Tables and figures from the book available for download.

“The book is filled with tips to the researcher on how to master the craft of doing research overall and specifically how to account for multi-layered cases.”

“Yin covers all of the basic and advanced knowledge for conducting case study and why they are useful for specific research studies without getting lost in the weeds.”

“The applications enhance the original material because it gives the reader concrete examples.”

“Yin is much more in-depth on case study methods both within a general qualitative text and any other case study text I have seen.”

On demand used as recommendation for basic literature for case study research

An essential reading for people doing case studies.

very thoruogh introduction

Very good introduction to Case Study design. I have used case study approach for my PhD study. I would recommend this book for an indepth understanding of case study design for research projects.

Dr Siew Lee School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedic Practice Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen.

The book is a really good introduction to case study research and is full of useful examples. I will recommend as the definitive source for students interested in pursuing this further in their projects.

In our Doctor of Ministerial Leadership (DML), Case Study is the Methodology that is required in this program. Robert Yin's book provides the foundational knowledge needed to conduct research using his Case Study design.

Sample Materials & Chapters

Preface: Spotlighting "Case Study Research"

Chapter 1: Getting Started

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Case Study Methods

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Case Study Research and Applications

Design and Methods

Case Study Research | Research Methods | Intermediate/Advanced Qualitative Research | Research Methods in Sociology

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Winner of the 2019 McGuffey Longevity Award from the Textbook & Academic Authors Association (TAA)

Recognized as one of the most cited methodology books in the social sciences, the Sixth Edition of Robert K. Yin's bestselling text provides a complete portal to the world of case study research. With the integration of 11 applications in this edition, the book gives readers access to exemplary case studies drawn from a wide variety of academic and applied fields. Ultimately, Case Study Research and Applications will guide students in the successful use and application of the case study research method.

See what’s new to this edition by selecting the Features tab on this page. Should you need additional information or have questions regarding the HEOA information provided for this title, including what is new to this edition, please email  [email protected] . Please include your name, contact information, and the name of the title for which you would like more information. For information on the HEOA, please go to  http://ed.gov/policy/highered/leg/hea08/index.html .

For assistance with your order: Please email us at  [email protected]  or connect with your SAGE representative.

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Chapter 1. Getting Started: How to Know Whether and When to Use the Case Study as a Research Method

Chapter 2. designing case studies: identifying your case(s) and establishing the logic of your case study, chapter 3. preparing to collect case study evidence: what you need to do before starting to collect case study data, chapter 4. collecting case study evidence: the principles you should follow in working with six sources of evidence, chapter 5. analyzing case study evidence: how to start your analysis, your analytic choices, and how they work, chapter 6. reporting case studies: how and what to compose.

Password-protected Instructor Resources include the following:

  • An expanded glossary provided by the author in the form of downloadable Briefs.
  • Additional tutorials written by the author which correspond to Chapters 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6.
  • A selection of author Robert Yin's SAGE journal articles.
  • Tables and figures from the book available for download.

Student Resource Site The open-access Student Study Site includes a selection of author Robert Yin's SAGE journal articles.

NEW TO THIS EDITION:

  • Includes 11 in-depth applications that show how researchers have implemented case study methods successfully.
  • Increases reference to relativist and constructivist approaches to case study research, as well as how case studies can be part of mixed methods projects.
  • Places greater emphasis on using plausible rival explanations to bolster case study quality.
  • Discusses synthesizing findings across case studies in a multiple-case study in more detail.
  • Adds an expanded list of 15 fields that have text or texts devoted to case study research.
  • Sharpens discussion of distinguishing research from non-research case studies.
  • The author brings to light at least three remaining gaps to be filled in the future:
  • how rival explanations can become more routinely integrated into all case study research;
  • the difference between case-based and variable-based approaches to designing and analyzing case studies; and
  • the relationship between case study research and qualitative research.

KEY FEATURES:

  • Numerous conceptual exercises, illustrative exhibits, vignettes, and a glossary make the book eminently accessible.
  • Boxes throughout offer more in-depth real-world examples of research.
  • Short, sidebar tips help succinctly explain concepts and allow students to check their understanding.
  • Exercises throughout offer students the chance to immediately apply their knowledge.
“The book is filled with tips to the researcher on how to master the craft of doing research overall and specifically how to account for multi-layered cases.” Asta Zelenkauskaite Drexel University
“Yin covers all of the basic and advanced knowledge for conducting case study and why they are useful for specific research studies without getting lost in the weeds.” Michael A Guerra Lincoln University
“The applications enhance the original material because it gives the reader concrete examples.” Claretha Hughes University of Arkansas
“Yin is much more in-depth on case study methods both within a general qualitative text and any other case study text I have seen.” David M. Sprick, PhD Park University

Session Timeout

case study research and applications design and methods

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Robert K. Yin

Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods 6th Edition, Kindle Edition

Winner of the 2019 McGuffey Longevity Award from the Textbook & Academic Authors Association (TAA)

Recognized as one of the most cited methodology books in the social sciences, the Sixth Edition of Robert K. Yin′s bestselling text provides a complete portal to the world of case study research. With the integration of 11 applications in this edition, the book gives readers access to exemplary case studies drawn from a wide variety of academic and applied fields. Ultimately, Case Study Research and Applications will guide students in the successful use and application of the case study research method.

  • ISBN-13 978-1506336169
  • Edition 6th
  • Publisher SAGE Publications, Inc
  • Publication date September 27, 2017
  • Language English
  • File size 7549 KB
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Editorial Reviews

"The applications enhance the original material because it gives the reader concrete examples."

"The book is filled with tips to the researcher on how to master the craft of doing research overall and specifically how to account for multi-layered cases."

"Yin is much more in-depth on case study methods both within a general qualitative text and any other case study text I have seen."

"Yin covers all of the basic and advanced knowledge for conducting case study and why they are useful for specific research studies without getting lost in the weeds."

About the Author

Robert K. Yin is President of COSMOS Corporation, an applied research and social science firm.  Over the years, COSMOS has successfully completed hundreds of projects for federal agencies, state and local agencies, and private foundations.

Outside of COSMOS, Dr. Yin has assisted numerous other research groups, helping to train their field teams or to design research studies. The most recent such engagements have been with The World Bank, the Division of Special Education and disAbility Research at George Mason University, the Department of Nursing Research and Quality Outcomes at the Children’s National Health System (Washington, DC), and the School of Education, Southern New Hampshire University.

Dr. Yin has authored over 100 publications, including authoring or editing 11 books (not counting the multiple editions of any given book). Earlier editions of the present book have been translated into eight languages (Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Swedish, Romanian, Italian, Polish, and Portuguese), and a second book on Qualitative Research from Start to Finish (2016) is in its 2nd edition and has been translated into four languages (Chinese, Korean, Swedish, and Portuguese).  Dr. Yin received his B.A. in history from Harvard College (magna cum laude) and his Ph.D. in brain and cognitive sciences from MIT.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07C66LQX2
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ SAGE Publications, Inc; 6th edition (September 27, 2017)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ September 27, 2017
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 7549 KB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 350 pages
  • #3 in Social Science Research
  • #4 in Social Science Methodology
  • #8 in Social Sciences Methodology

About the author

Robert k. yin.

Robert K. Yin, Ph.D., serves as Chairman of the Board and CEO of COSMOS Corporation, an applied research and social science firm that has been in operation since 1980. Over the years, COSMOS has successfully completed hundreds of projects for government agencies, private foundations, and other entrepreneurial and non-profit organizations. At COSMOS, Dr. Yin actively leads various research projects, including those in which the case study method is used. He has authored numerous books and peer-reviewed articles, including Case Study Research and Applications of Case Study Research. In 1998 he founded the “Robert K. Yin Fund” at M.I.T., which supports seminars on brain sciences, as well as other activities related to the advancement of pre-doctoral students in the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences.

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Customers find the content great and helpful for qualitative researchers undertaking Case Study Methodology. They say it breaks down difficult concepts into manageable pieces and includes relevant examples and exercises to help understand.

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Customers find the book great for qualitative researchers undertaking Case Study Methodology. They say it's a lifesaver and a practical book for case study research. Readers also appreciate the author's framework in helping them determine when a case is appropriate.

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Customers find the book comprehensive and helpful for understanding and conducting case studies. They say it breaks down difficult concepts into manageable pieces and includes relevant examples for novice researchers. Readers also appreciate that the book provides enough detail when necessary. In addition, they mention the newest edition adds more case study examples that include examples of planning.

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Case study research and applications : design and methods

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  • Foreword / Donald T. Campbell
  • Getting started : how to know whether and when to use the case study as a research method
  • Designing case studies : identifying your case(s) and establishing the logic of your case study
  • Preparing to collect case study evidence : what you need to do before starting to collect case study data
  • Collecting case study evidence : the principles you should follow in working with six sources of evidence
  • Analyzing case study evidence : how to start your analysis, your analytic choices, and how they work
  • Reporting case studies : how and what to compose.

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Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods Paperback – Nov. 3 2017

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  • ISBN-10 1506336167
  • ISBN-13 978-1506336169
  • Edition 6th
  • Publisher Sage Publications
  • Publication date Nov. 3 2017
  • Language English
  • Dimensions 18.75 x 2.03 x 23.19 cm
  • Print length 352 pages
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About the author.

Robert K. Yin is President of COSMOS Corporation, an applied research and social science firm. Over the years, COSMOS has successfully completed hundreds of projects for federal agencies, state and local agencies, and private foundations, and most of this book’s applications come from these projects.

Outside of COSMOS, Dr. Yin has assisted numerous other research groups, helping to train their field teams or to design research studies. A recent engagement has been with the United Nations Development Programme, and another assignment has been to provide guidance to assist doctoral students at the University of Copenhagen. Currently, Dr. Yin holds the position of distinguished scholar-in-residence at American University’s School of International Service (Washington, DC). Earlier, he served as Visiting Scholar at the U.S. Government Accountability Office’s research methodology division.

Dr. Yin has authored nearly 100 journal articles and books. His first book on the case study method, Case Study Research: Design and Methods (2009) is in its fourth edition. He has edited two case study anthologies (Yin, 2004; and 2005) and has most recently authored a new text on qualitative research methods (Yin, 2011). Dr. Yin received his B.A. in history from Harvard College (magna cum laude) and his Ph.D. in brain and cognitive sciences from M.I.T.

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Sage Publications; 6th edition (Nov. 3 2017)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 352 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1506336167
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1506336169
  • Item weight ‏ : ‎ 544 g
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 18.75 x 2.03 x 23.19 cm
  • #12 in Social Sciences Methodology
  • #21 in Anthropology Textbooks
  • #25 in Social Sciences Research

About the author

Robert k. yin.

Robert K. Yin, Ph.D., serves as Chairman of the Board and CEO of COSMOS Corporation, an applied research and social science firm that has been in operation since 1980. Over the years, COSMOS has successfully completed hundreds of projects for government agencies, private foundations, and other entrepreneurial and non-profit organizations. At COSMOS, Dr. Yin actively leads various research projects, including those in which the case study method is used. He has authored numerous books and peer-reviewed articles, including Case Study Research and Applications of Case Study Research. In 1998 he founded the “Robert K. Yin Fund” at M.I.T., which supports seminars on brain sciences, as well as other activities related to the advancement of pre-doctoral students in the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences.

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case study research and applications design and methods

Case study research and applications : design and methods

"[This book] provides a complete portal to the world of case study research. With the integration of 11 applications in this edition, the book gives readers access to ... case studies drawn from a ...

"[This book] provides a complete portal to the world of case study research. With the integration of 11 applications in this edition, the book gives readers access to ... case studies drawn from a wide variety of academic and applied fields. Ultimately, [this book] will guide students in the ... design and use of the case study research method. New to this edition: includes 11 in-depth applications that show how researchers have implemented case study methods successfully; increases reference to relativist and constructivist approaches to case study research, as well as how case studies can be part of mixed methods projects; places greater emphasis on using plausible rival explanations to bolster case study quality; discusses synthesizing findings across case studies in a multiple-case study in more detail; adds an expanded list of 15 fields that have text or texts devoted to case study research; and sharpens discussion of distinguishing research from non-research case studies. The author brings to light at least three remaining gaps to be filled in the future: how rival explanations can become more routinely integrated into all case study research; the difference between case-based and variable-based approaches to designing and analyzing case studies; and the relationship between case study research and qualitative research."--

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  • Campbell, Donald T. (Donald Thomas), 1916-1996, writer of foreword
  • Sixth edition
  • Thousand Oaks, California : SAGE Publications, Inc., [2018]
  • xxx, 319 pages : illustrations ; 24 cm
  • Earlier editions called: Case study research : design and methods.
  • Includes bibliographical references and indexes.
  • Foreword / Donald T. Campbell -- Preface -- Getting started : how to know whether and when to use the case study as a research method -- Designing case studies : identifying your case(s) and establishing the logic of your case study -- Preparing to collect case study evidence : what you need to do before starting to collect case study data -- Collecting case study evidence : the principles you should follow in working with six sources of evidence -- Analyzing case study evidence : how to start your analysis, your analytic choices, and how they work -- Reporting case studies : how and what to compose
  • Case method.
  • Social sciences -- Research -- Methodology.
  • Social Sciences -- methods. Medical Subject Heading
  • Research Design. Medical Subject Heading

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Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods

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This site is intended to enhance your use of  Case Study Research and Applications, Sixth Edition,  by Robert K. Yin. Please note that all the resources on this site are especially geared toward maximizing your understanding of the material.

  • Additional  tutorials  written by the author further expand on material in chapters 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6
  • An expanded glossary  provided in the form of  Briefs  by the author includes more in-depth explanations of challenging concepts

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Research Method

Home » Case Study – Methods, Examples and Guide

Case Study – Methods, Examples and Guide

Table of Contents

Case Study Research

A case study is a research method that involves an in-depth examination and analysis of a particular phenomenon or case, such as an individual, organization, community, event, or situation.

It is a qualitative research approach that aims to provide a detailed and comprehensive understanding of the case being studied. Case studies typically involve multiple sources of data, including interviews, observations, documents, and artifacts, which are analyzed using various techniques, such as content analysis, thematic analysis, and grounded theory. The findings of a case study are often used to develop theories, inform policy or practice, or generate new research questions.

Types of Case Study

Types and Methods of Case Study are as follows:

Single-Case Study

A single-case study is an in-depth analysis of a single case. This type of case study is useful when the researcher wants to understand a specific phenomenon in detail.

For Example , A researcher might conduct a single-case study on a particular individual to understand their experiences with a particular health condition or a specific organization to explore their management practices. The researcher collects data from multiple sources, such as interviews, observations, and documents, and uses various techniques to analyze the data, such as content analysis or thematic analysis. The findings of a single-case study are often used to generate new research questions, develop theories, or inform policy or practice.

Multiple-Case Study

A multiple-case study involves the analysis of several cases that are similar in nature. This type of case study is useful when the researcher wants to identify similarities and differences between the cases.

For Example, a researcher might conduct a multiple-case study on several companies to explore the factors that contribute to their success or failure. The researcher collects data from each case, compares and contrasts the findings, and uses various techniques to analyze the data, such as comparative analysis or pattern-matching. The findings of a multiple-case study can be used to develop theories, inform policy or practice, or generate new research questions.

Exploratory Case Study

An exploratory case study is used to explore a new or understudied phenomenon. This type of case study is useful when the researcher wants to generate hypotheses or theories about the phenomenon.

For Example, a researcher might conduct an exploratory case study on a new technology to understand its potential impact on society. The researcher collects data from multiple sources, such as interviews, observations, and documents, and uses various techniques to analyze the data, such as grounded theory or content analysis. The findings of an exploratory case study can be used to generate new research questions, develop theories, or inform policy or practice.

Descriptive Case Study

A descriptive case study is used to describe a particular phenomenon in detail. This type of case study is useful when the researcher wants to provide a comprehensive account of the phenomenon.

For Example, a researcher might conduct a descriptive case study on a particular community to understand its social and economic characteristics. The researcher collects data from multiple sources, such as interviews, observations, and documents, and uses various techniques to analyze the data, such as content analysis or thematic analysis. The findings of a descriptive case study can be used to inform policy or practice or generate new research questions.

Instrumental Case Study

An instrumental case study is used to understand a particular phenomenon that is instrumental in achieving a particular goal. This type of case study is useful when the researcher wants to understand the role of the phenomenon in achieving the goal.

For Example, a researcher might conduct an instrumental case study on a particular policy to understand its impact on achieving a particular goal, such as reducing poverty. The researcher collects data from multiple sources, such as interviews, observations, and documents, and uses various techniques to analyze the data, such as content analysis or thematic analysis. The findings of an instrumental case study can be used to inform policy or practice or generate new research questions.

Case Study Data Collection Methods

Here are some common data collection methods for case studies:

Interviews involve asking questions to individuals who have knowledge or experience relevant to the case study. Interviews can be structured (where the same questions are asked to all participants) or unstructured (where the interviewer follows up on the responses with further questions). Interviews can be conducted in person, over the phone, or through video conferencing.

Observations

Observations involve watching and recording the behavior and activities of individuals or groups relevant to the case study. Observations can be participant (where the researcher actively participates in the activities) or non-participant (where the researcher observes from a distance). Observations can be recorded using notes, audio or video recordings, or photographs.

Documents can be used as a source of information for case studies. Documents can include reports, memos, emails, letters, and other written materials related to the case study. Documents can be collected from the case study participants or from public sources.

Surveys involve asking a set of questions to a sample of individuals relevant to the case study. Surveys can be administered in person, over the phone, through mail or email, or online. Surveys can be used to gather information on attitudes, opinions, or behaviors related to the case study.

Artifacts are physical objects relevant to the case study. Artifacts can include tools, equipment, products, or other objects that provide insights into the case study phenomenon.

How to conduct Case Study Research

Conducting a case study research involves several steps that need to be followed to ensure the quality and rigor of the study. Here are the steps to conduct case study research:

  • Define the research questions: The first step in conducting a case study research is to define the research questions. The research questions should be specific, measurable, and relevant to the case study phenomenon under investigation.
  • Select the case: The next step is to select the case or cases to be studied. The case should be relevant to the research questions and should provide rich and diverse data that can be used to answer the research questions.
  • Collect data: Data can be collected using various methods, such as interviews, observations, documents, surveys, and artifacts. The data collection method should be selected based on the research questions and the nature of the case study phenomenon.
  • Analyze the data: The data collected from the case study should be analyzed using various techniques, such as content analysis, thematic analysis, or grounded theory. The analysis should be guided by the research questions and should aim to provide insights and conclusions relevant to the research questions.
  • Draw conclusions: The conclusions drawn from the case study should be based on the data analysis and should be relevant to the research questions. The conclusions should be supported by evidence and should be clearly stated.
  • Validate the findings: The findings of the case study should be validated by reviewing the data and the analysis with participants or other experts in the field. This helps to ensure the validity and reliability of the findings.
  • Write the report: The final step is to write the report of the case study research. The report should provide a clear description of the case study phenomenon, the research questions, the data collection methods, the data analysis, the findings, and the conclusions. The report should be written in a clear and concise manner and should follow the guidelines for academic writing.

Examples of Case Study

Here are some examples of case study research:

  • The Hawthorne Studies : Conducted between 1924 and 1932, the Hawthorne Studies were a series of case studies conducted by Elton Mayo and his colleagues to examine the impact of work environment on employee productivity. The studies were conducted at the Hawthorne Works plant of the Western Electric Company in Chicago and included interviews, observations, and experiments.
  • The Stanford Prison Experiment: Conducted in 1971, the Stanford Prison Experiment was a case study conducted by Philip Zimbardo to examine the psychological effects of power and authority. The study involved simulating a prison environment and assigning participants to the role of guards or prisoners. The study was controversial due to the ethical issues it raised.
  • The Challenger Disaster: The Challenger Disaster was a case study conducted to examine the causes of the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion in 1986. The study included interviews, observations, and analysis of data to identify the technical, organizational, and cultural factors that contributed to the disaster.
  • The Enron Scandal: The Enron Scandal was a case study conducted to examine the causes of the Enron Corporation’s bankruptcy in 2001. The study included interviews, analysis of financial data, and review of documents to identify the accounting practices, corporate culture, and ethical issues that led to the company’s downfall.
  • The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster : The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster was a case study conducted to examine the causes of the nuclear accident that occurred at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in Japan in 2011. The study included interviews, analysis of data, and review of documents to identify the technical, organizational, and cultural factors that contributed to the disaster.

Application of Case Study

Case studies have a wide range of applications across various fields and industries. Here are some examples:

Business and Management

Case studies are widely used in business and management to examine real-life situations and develop problem-solving skills. Case studies can help students and professionals to develop a deep understanding of business concepts, theories, and best practices.

Case studies are used in healthcare to examine patient care, treatment options, and outcomes. Case studies can help healthcare professionals to develop critical thinking skills, diagnose complex medical conditions, and develop effective treatment plans.

Case studies are used in education to examine teaching and learning practices. Case studies can help educators to develop effective teaching strategies, evaluate student progress, and identify areas for improvement.

Social Sciences

Case studies are widely used in social sciences to examine human behavior, social phenomena, and cultural practices. Case studies can help researchers to develop theories, test hypotheses, and gain insights into complex social issues.

Law and Ethics

Case studies are used in law and ethics to examine legal and ethical dilemmas. Case studies can help lawyers, policymakers, and ethical professionals to develop critical thinking skills, analyze complex cases, and make informed decisions.

Purpose of Case Study

The purpose of a case study is to provide a detailed analysis of a specific phenomenon, issue, or problem in its real-life context. A case study is a qualitative research method that involves the in-depth exploration and analysis of a particular case, which can be an individual, group, organization, event, or community.

The primary purpose of a case study is to generate a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the case, including its history, context, and dynamics. Case studies can help researchers to identify and examine the underlying factors, processes, and mechanisms that contribute to the case and its outcomes. This can help to develop a more accurate and detailed understanding of the case, which can inform future research, practice, or policy.

Case studies can also serve other purposes, including:

  • Illustrating a theory or concept: Case studies can be used to illustrate and explain theoretical concepts and frameworks, providing concrete examples of how they can be applied in real-life situations.
  • Developing hypotheses: Case studies can help to generate hypotheses about the causal relationships between different factors and outcomes, which can be tested through further research.
  • Providing insight into complex issues: Case studies can provide insights into complex and multifaceted issues, which may be difficult to understand through other research methods.
  • Informing practice or policy: Case studies can be used to inform practice or policy by identifying best practices, lessons learned, or areas for improvement.

Advantages of Case Study Research

There are several advantages of case study research, including:

  • In-depth exploration: Case study research allows for a detailed exploration and analysis of a specific phenomenon, issue, or problem in its real-life context. This can provide a comprehensive understanding of the case and its dynamics, which may not be possible through other research methods.
  • Rich data: Case study research can generate rich and detailed data, including qualitative data such as interviews, observations, and documents. This can provide a nuanced understanding of the case and its complexity.
  • Holistic perspective: Case study research allows for a holistic perspective of the case, taking into account the various factors, processes, and mechanisms that contribute to the case and its outcomes. This can help to develop a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the case.
  • Theory development: Case study research can help to develop and refine theories and concepts by providing empirical evidence and concrete examples of how they can be applied in real-life situations.
  • Practical application: Case study research can inform practice or policy by identifying best practices, lessons learned, or areas for improvement.
  • Contextualization: Case study research takes into account the specific context in which the case is situated, which can help to understand how the case is influenced by the social, cultural, and historical factors of its environment.

Limitations of Case Study Research

There are several limitations of case study research, including:

  • Limited generalizability : Case studies are typically focused on a single case or a small number of cases, which limits the generalizability of the findings. The unique characteristics of the case may not be applicable to other contexts or populations, which may limit the external validity of the research.
  • Biased sampling: Case studies may rely on purposive or convenience sampling, which can introduce bias into the sample selection process. This may limit the representativeness of the sample and the generalizability of the findings.
  • Subjectivity: Case studies rely on the interpretation of the researcher, which can introduce subjectivity into the analysis. The researcher’s own biases, assumptions, and perspectives may influence the findings, which may limit the objectivity of the research.
  • Limited control: Case studies are typically conducted in naturalistic settings, which limits the control that the researcher has over the environment and the variables being studied. This may limit the ability to establish causal relationships between variables.
  • Time-consuming: Case studies can be time-consuming to conduct, as they typically involve a detailed exploration and analysis of a specific case. This may limit the feasibility of conducting multiple case studies or conducting case studies in a timely manner.
  • Resource-intensive: Case studies may require significant resources, including time, funding, and expertise. This may limit the ability of researchers to conduct case studies in resource-constrained settings.

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  3. Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods 6th Edition

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  5. Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods

    Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods. Recognized as one of the most cited methodology books in the social sciences, the Sixth Edition of Robert K. Yin's bestselling text provides a complete portal to the world of case study research. With the integration of 11 applications in this edition, the book gives readers access to ...

  6. Case Study Research and Applications

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  10. Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods

    Recognized as one of the most cited methodology books in the social sciences, the Sixth Edition of Robert K. Yin's bestselling text provides a complete portal to the world of case study research. With the integration of 11 applications in this edition, the book gives readers access to exemplary case studies drawn from a wide variety of academic ...

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    Ultimately, Case Study Research and Applications. will guide students in the successful design and use of the case study research method. New to this Edition • Includes 11 in-depth applications that show how researchers have implemented case study methods successfully.

  12. Case Study Research and Applications : Design and Methods

    With the integration of 11 applications in this edition, the book gives readers access to exemplary case studies drawn from a wide variety of academic and applied fields. Ultimately, Case Study Research and Applications will guide students in the successful use and application of the case study research method.

  13. Case study research and applications : design and methods

    With the integration of 11 applications in this edition, the book gives readers access to...case studies drawn from a wide variety of academic and applied fields. Ultimately, [this book] will guide students in the...design and use of the case study research method. New to this edition: includes 11 in-depth applications that show how researchers ...

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    Application #10: A Multiple-Case Study Integrating Qualitative and Quantitative Data: Proposal Processing at 17 Universities Appendix A. A Note on the Uses of Case Study Research in Psychology Appendix B. A Note on the Uses of Case Study Research in Evaluations Application #11: An Evaluation Case Study: Evaluation of a Community Coalition's ...

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  19. Case Study

    A case study is a research method that involves an in-depth examination and analysis of a particular phenomenon or case, such as an individual, organization, community, event, or situation. It is a qualitative research approach that aims to provide a detailed and comprehensive understanding of the case being studied.