In case studies, what is the primary type of data generated?

In case studies, the primary type of data generated is qualitative data. This methodological approach emphasizes an in-depth understanding of a specific phenomenon, individual, group, or setting, prioritizing rich, descriptive information over numerical analysis.

Qualitative data in case studies may come from various sources, including interviews, observations, documents, and multimedia content, allowing researchers to capture complex social processes, behaviors, and motivations. This depth of detail is crucial for uncovering insights that might be overlooked in more quantitative approaches, where the focus is often on statistics and generalizability rather than on the nuances of individual experiences.

Moreover, while case studies may also incorporate some quantitative elements, such as demographic data or statistical summaries, these are typically supplementary to the main qualitative analysis. The strength of case studies lies in their ability to explore the "how" and "why" behind social phenomena, making qualitative data the cornerstone of this research method.