Research is broadly divided into two categories: qualitative and quantitative. Within each of those categories are multiple designs and methods. Among the qualitative methodologies is The case study method.

A case study is a qualitative research method that explores and interprets a single situation. The case study may focus on an individual such as a leader or teacher, or it may focus on a particular process, program, or setting. The research questions in a case study typically address why or how and focus on a limited number of interconnections. The primary sources of data are interviews and observations collected in a specific and bounded time period. Case studies are well-suited to the social sciences and education.

Case studies, though bounded by time and focused on a single situation will generate vast amounts of information. Therefore, the researcher must be diligent in the management of the gathered data in order to make appropriate connections and provide relevant insights. Use of a database to sort and categorize field notes is a necessary skill for researchers using the case study method. Of utmost importance is to manage the data in such a way as to bring to light the relationship between the research question and the data. Awareness of researcher bias is alos critical in the case study method as bias can easily distort the results of the study.

Case study is but one form of research design that is suitable and meaningful for dissertation research. Additional designs will be reviewed later in this series. In all cases, doctoral learners are advised to have relevant conversations with their dissertation committee and particularly with their methodologist and chair to determine the best design to address the research questions of the proposed dissertation study.