The Case Study in Social Research: History, Methods and Applications

The Case Study in Social Research provides a methodological clarification of the case study approach in the social sciences, aiming to provide readers with a methodological awareness of the complexity and peculiarity of applying a case study. It examines all aspects of the case study approach, including its sociological and methodological roots, research design, preparation, and administration, and discusses the differences between the case study and other social research approaches. It is suitable for upper-level undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as social researchers, practitioners, and academics with a firm grounding in social research methodologies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 162 pages
Publication date: 23 October 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Case Study in Social Research is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and innovative methodological clarification of the case study approach in the social sciences. Its primary objective is to provide researchers with a clear and systematic framework for applying the case study method consistently and consciously across different fields of social research. Rather than offering a set of prescriptive rules, the book aims to foster a methodological awareness of the complexity and peculiarity of conducting case studies, enabling readers to carefully evaluate the limits and potential of this type of investigation.

The book takes the reader on a comprehensive journey through the history, epistemology, technical aspects, and practical applications of the case study approach. It examines all aspects of the case study methodology, including its sociological and methodological roots, research design, preparation, and administration. By exploring these dimensions, the book seeks to address and clarify methodological issues that have been equivocal and misunderstood in the field.

One of the key strengths of The Case Study in Social Research is its systematic illustration and exemplification of the case study approach. The book provides detailed examples and case studies from various social research fields, such as education, health, politics, and social work, to demonstrate how the case study method can be applied in different contexts and to address different research questions. This practical approach helps readers to understand the nuances and complexities of conducting case studies and enables them to apply the methodology effectively in their own research endeavors.

In addition to its methodological focus, the book also addresses the differences between the case study and other social research approaches, such as ethnographic research, grounded theory, and qualitative research. It helps readers to understand the unique characteristics and advantages of each approach and to choose the most appropriate method for their research objectives. This practical guidance is particularly valuable for upper-level undergraduate and postgraduate students in the social sciences.

The Case Study in Social Research is a comprehensive and valuable resource for social researchers, practitioners, and academics with a firm grounding in social research methodologies. It provides a clear and systematic framework for applying the case study approach, fosters methodological awareness, and offers practical guidance and exemplification of the methodology across different fields of social research. Whether you are a novice or an experienced researcher, this book will be an invaluable asset to your methodological toolkit.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032331126