Distinguishing case study as a research method from case reports as a publication type

Authors

  • Kristine M. Alpi William R. Kenan, Jr. Library of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC http://orcid.org/0000-0002-4521-3523
  • John Jamal Evans North Carolina Community College System, Raleigh, NC

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/jmla.2019.615

Keywords:

Qualitative Research, Case Studies, Case Reports, Subject Headings, Indexing

Abstract

The purpose of this editorial is to distinguish between case reports and case studies. In health, case reports are familiar ways of sharing events or efforts of intervening with single patients with previously unreported features. As a qualitative methodology, case study research encompasses a great deal more complexity than a typical case report and often incorporates multiple streams of data combined in creative ways. The depth and richness of case study description helps readers understand the case and whether findings might be applicable beyond that setting.

Author Biography

Kristine M. Alpi, William R. Kenan, Jr. Library of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC

Director, William R. Kenan, Jr. Library of Veterinary Medicine

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Published

2019-01-04