7 Types of Case Studies and Their Uses

Exploratory Case Studies

Exploratory case studies are useful in the early stages of research and can help generate hypotheses for further investigation.

These case studies aim to gain a better understanding of a topic, phenomenon, or problem when little is known about it.

Example: Exploring the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

In this case study, researchers set out to understand the relationship between social media usage and mental health among teenagers. Little prior research exists on this specific topic, making it suitable for an exploratory case study. Through interviews, surveys, and content analysis of social media platforms, the study aims to gain insights into the potential effects of social media on the mental well-being of adolescents. The findings from this exploratory case study will form the basis for further investigations and the formulation of hypotheses for future research.

When To Use

Here are some examples of when to use exploratory case studies:

When you are trying to understand a new phenomenon or issue.
When you want to develop new theories or hypotheses.
When you want to gain a deeper understanding of a particular issue.
When there is little research on a topic.
When you want to explore a topic in more depth.
When you want to get a first-hand account of a particular issue.
When you want to understand the context of a particular issue.

Descriptive Case Studies

Descriptive case studies focus on providing a detailed account of a particular situation, event, or individual.

They aim to present a comprehensive picture and are often used in journalism and qualitative research.

Example: A Day in the Life of a Humanitarian Aid Worker

In this case study, a detailed account of the experiences and challenges faced by a humanitarian aid worker in a conflict zone is presented. The researcher shadows the aid worker, documenting their daily activities, decision-making processes, and interactions with local communities. Through this descriptive case study, readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the humanitarian's role and the complexities they encounter while providing assistance in volatile environments.

When to Use

Descriptive case studies can be used in a variety of situations, including:

To illustrate a concept or idea.
To provide a detailed account of a particular event or situation.
To highlight the strengths and weaknesses of a particular approach or solution.
To provide a real-world example of a problem or challenge.
To demonstrate the effectiveness of a particular intervention or program.
To generate discussion and debate about a particular issue.
To inform decision-making about a particular course of action.

Explanatory Case Studies

These case studies delve into the cause-and-effect relationship between variables.

They help researchers understand why a particular outcome occurred and are prevalent in social sciences and medical research.

Example: Investigating the Link Between Smoking and Lung Cancer

In this case study, researchers delve into the cause-and-effect relationship between smoking habits and lung cancer incidence. Through a longitudinal study involving a large sample of participants, the research team collects data on smoking behavior, exposure to carcinogens, and the development of lung cancer over time. The explanatory case study aims to provide evidence supporting the understanding that smoking is a significant risk factor for lung cancer.

When to Use

Explanatory case studies are often used in the social sciences. But they can be used in any field where it is important to understand how something works or occurs.

To understand how a particular phenomenon works or occurs.
To identify the factors that contribute to a particular outcome.
To develop a theory or explanation about a particular phenomenon.
To evaluate the effectiveness of a particular intervention or program.
To inform policy or decision-making.

Instrumental Case Studies

Instrumental case studies are employed when the primary purpose is to gain insights into an issue that serves as a means to understand another related phenomenon.

These cases act as a tool to investigate a broader concept.

Example: Using a Company Merger to Understand Corporate Restructuring

In this case study, researchers examine a merger between two prominent companies as a means to gain insights into corporate restructuring processes. The focus is not solely on the merger itself but on how it serves as an instrument to explore the broader concept of corporate change and its impact on employees, stakeholders, and the industry. The instrumental case study aids in understanding the dynamics and challenges of merging organizations and their subsequent transformation.

When to Use

Instrumental case studies can be used in a variety of situations, such as:

To understand how a particular program or intervention works in practice.
To identify the factors that contribute to success or failure.
To develop new programs or interventions.
To evaluate the effectiveness of existing programs or interventions.
To inform policy decisions.
To educate stakeholders about a particular issue.

Intrinsic Case Studies

Intrinsic case studies are chosen because of their unique nature or their ability to provide valuable and rare information.

The focus is on understanding the particular case itself rather than using it as a means to explore other concepts.

Example: The Enigma of the Amber Room

In this case study, the focus is on understanding the Amber Room itself, a historically significant and priceless work of art that mysteriously disappeared during World War II. The researchers explore the unique nature of the Amber Room, its historical context, and the various theories surrounding its disappearance. This intrinsic case study aims to shed light on the iconic masterpiece and its cultural significance.

When to Use

Here are some specific examples of when you can use an intrinsic case study:

When you want to understand the experiences of a particular individual or group.
When you want to understand the culture of a particular organization.
When you want to understand the impact of a particular event or decision.
When you want to develop a new product or service.
When you want to improve a current product or service.

Collective Case Studies

Collective case studies involve studying multiple cases to draw comparisons and generalizations.

They are useful when researchers want to understand patterns and commonalities across different instances.

Example: Comparing Approaches to Urban Renewal in Different Cities

In this case study, researchers examine urban renewal initiatives in multiple cities to draw comparisons and identify patterns in their approaches. The study includes cities with different geographical, economic, and cultural contexts, allowing researchers to understand the diverse factors influencing urban renewal strategies. The collective case study provides a broader understanding of effective practices and challenges across various urban contexts.

When to Use

Collective case studies can be used to answer a variety of research questions, such as:

When the objective is to compare and contrast similar phenomena in multiple cases.
To identify common patterns, trends, or best practices across different instances.
When a single case study might not provide a comprehensive understanding of a complex issue.

Longitudinal Case Studies

Longitudinal case studies involve observing a case or cases over an extended period.

This approach helps researchers track changes, developments, and trends in educational cases over time.

Example: Tracking the Impact of Education Reforms Over a Decade

In this case study, researchers follow the progress and outcomes of education reforms in a particular country over the span of ten years. They collect data on changes in educational policies, student performance, and teacher training initiatives to analyze the long-term effects of the reforms. The longitudinal case study offers valuable insights into the sustainability and efficacy of the education policies implemented over time.

When to Use

Some examples of when longitudinal case studies might be used include:

Studying the development of a child from birth to adulthood
Studying the effects of a new educational program on student achievement
Studying the impact of a new drug on patient health

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WRITTEN BY

Barbara P. (Literature)

Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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Different Types of Case Studies and When to Use Them

Exploratory Case Studies

When To Use

Descriptive Case Studies

When to Use

Explanatory Case Studies

When to Use

Instrumental Case Studies

When to Use

Intrinsic Case Studies

When to Use

Collective Case Studies

When to Use

Longitudinal Case Studies

When to Use