Abstract
Although case study methods remain a controversial approach to data collection, they are
widely recognised in many social science studies especially when in-depth explanations of a
social behaviour are sought after. This article, therefore, discusses several aspects of case
studies as a research method. These include the design and categories of case studies and how
their robustness can be achieved. It also explores on the advantages and disadvantages of
case study as a research method.
Introduction
Case study research, through reports of past studies, allows the exploration and understanding
of complex issues. It can be considered a robust research method particularly when a holistic,
in-depth investigation is required. Recognised as a tool in many social science studies, the role
of case study method in research becomes more prominent when issues with regard to
education (Gulsecen & Kubat, 2006), sociology (Grassel & Schirmer, 2006) and communitybased
problems (Johnson, 2006), such as poverty, unemployment, drug addiction, illiteracy,
etc. were raised. One of the reasons for the recognition of case study as a research method is
that researchers were becoming more concerned about the limitations of quantitative methods
in providing holistic and in-depth explanations of the social and behavioural problems in
question.
for more info example of case study research design
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZEyP9HUGdk&w=560&h=315]
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