Question

___________ is an intensive qualitative method involving careful and complete study of a person or an institution.
 

• A. Observation
• B. Case study
• C. Ethnography
• D. Interview

Hint:

Think of "case" as in a "medical case" or a "legal case"—it's a deep dive into one specific instance. This helps distinguish it from ethnography (studying a whole culture) or observation (just one way to collect data).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Concept Overview:
The question requires identification of a qualitative research method. Qualitative research explores social phenomena in depth. The question emphasizes "intensive," "careful and complete study," and focusing on "a person or an institution" (a single, defined unit).
Step 2: Detailed Analysis:
- Observation: A data collection technique involving watching subjects. It can be part of various methods but isn't inherently an intensive study of a single unit.
- Case study: An in-depth, long-term analysis of a single instance or "case." This could be an individual, group, institution, or community, aiming for detailed, holistic understanding. This aligns precisely with the question's description.
- Ethnography: A broader method describing an entire culture or social group. While intensive, it typically examines a whole community or culture, not just a single person or institution as a defined case.
- Interview: A data collection tool, used within research methods like case studies and ethnography, gathering information through conversation. It's not a research method in itself.
Step 3: Conclusion:
The research method defined as an intensive, careful, and complete study of a person, institution, or single defined system is the case study.