ABSTRACT

Case studies are a very popular research strategy, often used by researchers in education and other social sciences and by researchers in various legal and health-related professions. They are also commonly used by university students undertaking research projects for dissertations and theses. This chapter will look at the key purposes of case study research, and will examine the different types of case studies (single and multiple) and outline their key characteristics. It will consider when case studies should be used, how they can be designed and conducted, and what types of data collection methods can be used. It will also cover the strengths and limitations of case study research.