A case study is an in-depth examination of a particular case within a real-world context. It can focus on an individual, group, organization, event, belief system, or action. Case studies can be used to generate an in-depth, multi-faceted understanding of a complex issue in its real-life context. They are an established research design that is used extensively in a wide variety of disciplines, particularly in the social sciences. Case studies can be defined in a variety of ways, but the central tenet is the need to explore.
Case studies can be conducted in two ways: within-case research, which studies a single case, and cross-case research, which involves numerous cases. Case study research has been extensively practiced in both the social and natural sciences. Researchers use case studies to examine complex phenomena in the natural setting to increase understanding of them.
The benefits of creating a case study include the ability to tell a story, highlight the benefits of a business product, and provide a framework for evaluation and analysis of complex issues. Case studies can also cultivate the capacity for critical analysis, judgment, decision-making, and action.
In summary, a case study is a research methodology that involves an in-depth examination of a particular case within a real-world context. It can focus on an individual, group, organization, event, belief system, or action, and can be used to generate a multi-faceted understanding of complex issues. Case studies are an established research design used extensively in a wide variety of disciplines, particularly in the social sciences.
