Types of case study methods

There are several types of case study methods. The method selected depends on the nature of the question being asked and the goals of the researcher. Different types of case studies include illustrative. This type of method is used to illustrate or describe an event or situation in such a way that people can become more familiar with the topic in question and perhaps become acquainted with the terminology associated with the topic. Exploratory. This method is a condensed case study, and the purpose is to gather basic initial data that could be used to identify a particular question for a larger study. This study is not designed to produce detailed data from which any conclusions could be drawn. It is simply exploratory in nature.

Cumulative. The cumulative method is designed to pull together information for several events or situations and aggregate it in such a way that it allows for greater generalisation. It has the advantage of saving time and money by not creating new and repetitive studies. Critical instance. These studies are used to examine situations of unique interest or to challenge a universal or generalised belief. Such studies are not to create new generalisations. Rather, several situations or events may be examined to raise questions or challenge previously held assertions.