Case study: characteristics, objectives and methodology

We explain what this way of research in science, based on concrete cases, consists of.

In any of the existing research disciplines, especially if they are in any way related to people or to physical or psychological health, a series of research methods or techniques are required to develop the theories on which each of these subjects are based.

One of these techniques is the case study. A qualitative research method that we will discuss throughout this article. As well as its characteristics, objectives and how to carry it out correctly and effectively.

What is a case study?

The case study consists of a research method or technique, usually used in the health and social sciences, which is characterized by a search and inquiry process and a systematic analysis of one or more cases.It is characterized by the need for a process of search and inquiry, as well as the systematic analysis of one or several cases.

To be more precise, by case we mean all those unique circumstances, situations or phenomena about which more information is required or which merit some kind of interest within the world of research.

Depending on the field of research in which it is carried out, the case study can be focused on a wide variety of subjects or issues. In the field of psychology, it is usually related to the investigation of mental illnesses, disorders or disturbances through the study of the people who suffer from them.

Unlike other types of empirical research, this methodology is considered a qualitative research technique.The development of this is focused on the exhaustive study of a phenomenon. And not in the statistical analysis of existing data.

As a general rule, the case study is carried out with the intention of developing a series of hypotheses or theories about a specific topic or theme in order to carry out more costly and elaborate studies with a much larger sample based on these theories.

However, the case study can be carried out either with a single person as the object of research, or with several subjects with specific characteristics. For this purpose, the person or persons who carry out the case study techniques such as observation or the administration of questionnaires or psychological tests.. However, these procedures will vary according to the discipline to which the research belongs.

What characteristics distinguish it?

In 1994, the pedagogue and researcher Gloria Pérez Serrano drew up a list of the main characteristics that define case studies. These are:

They are particularistic.

This means that they only cover a specific reality or topic, which makes them very effective techniques for analyzing They are very effective techniques for analyzing unique and concrete situations..

They are descriptive

At the end of a case study we will obtain an exhaustive and qualitative description of a specific situation or condition.

They are heuristic

The concept heuristic means to find or discover something. In the case study we can discover new aspects of a specific topic or confirm what we already know. what we already know.

They are inductive

Based on inductive reasoning we can develop hypotheses and find new relationships from one or more specific cases.

What are the objectives?

Like any research technique, the case study is guided by specific objectives. These are:

• To develop one or more hypotheses or theories through the study of a given reality or situation. through the study of a given reality or situation.
• To confirm already existing hypotheses or theories.
• Description and recording of the facts or circumstances of the case. or circumstances of the case.
• Verification or comparison of similar phenomena or situations.

Methodology: how is it done?

Traditionally, the development of a case study is divided into five well-defined phases. These phases are as follows.

1. Selection of the case

Before starting any type of research, we must know what we want to study, and then select an appropriate and relevant case. We must establish the scope for which the study may be useful, the people who may be interesting as case studies, and, of course, define the problem and objectives, and, of course, define the problem and the objectives of the case study. of the case study.

2. Elaboration of questions

Once the topic of study has been identified and the case or cases to be investigated have been selected, it will be necessary to develop a set of questions that will determine what is to be found out once the study has been completed. questions that will determine what you want to find out once the study has been completed..

Sometimes it is useful to establish an overall question to serve as a guide and then determine more specific and varied questions. In this way we can get the most out of the situation to be investigated.

3. Locating sources and collecting data

Through observation techniques, interviews with subjects or by administering psychological tests and quizzes, we will obtain most of the information we need. we will obtain most of the information necessary for the elaboration of the theories and hypotheses that give meaning to the research.

4. Analysis and interpretation of the information and results

Once all the data have been collected, the next step is to compare them with the hypotheses formulated at the beginning of the case study. Once the comparison stage is completed, the researcher(s) can draw a series of conclusions and decide whether the information or result obtained can be applied to more similar situations or cases.

5. Preparation of the report

Finally, a report is prepared which, chronologically, details each and every one of the data of the case study.. It will be necessary to specify the steps followed, how the information was obtained and the reason for the conclusions drawn.

All this in a clear and understandable language that allows the reader to understand each of the points.