Exploratory Research - Case Study Example

It is important to employ the most suitable method of qualitative research in determining the viability and effectiveness of such quality teams. Critical Review Question 1 (b): Here, the bank loan officer who wants to forecast the economy of the state in which the bank operates needs to outline a research design which helps him find the exact data and analyze them to arrive at a conclusion. A quantitative research method is most effective in such situations. Critical Review Question 1 (c): It is important to employ a qualitative research method in order to respond to the product manager's suggestion that a non-tobacco cigarette which is blended from wheat, cocoa and citrus needs to be developed.

It is only through the employment of such a qualitative research method that one can determine the viability and success of a non-tobacco cigarette. Critical Review Question 1 (d): In a scenario where the research project needs to identify the issues of concern to labor union, a mixed research method is most recommended where qualitative research method and quantitative research method are blended. Critical Review Question 2: The utility of case studies in social researches is manifold and the social scientists use different terms such as 'N of cases', 'case study', and 'sample of cases' to refer to this.

The case study research method may be comprehended as an empirical inquiry which analyzes a contemporary phenomenon within its real-life context and this helps one in realizing specific aspects of a particular situation. "Case study research excels at bringing us to an understanding of a complex issue or object and can extend experience or add strength to what is already known through previous research. Case studies emphasize detailed contextual analysis of a limited number of events or conditions and their relationships.

" (Soy, 1997). However, there are also significant limitations connected with the method and the critics of the case study method assume that the study of a small number of cases cannot provide any grounds for ascertaining reliability or generality of findings. It is also maintained that the intense exposure to study of the case can result in prejudiced findings. Critical Review Question 3: In qualitative research, a focus group is an essential factor and has several vital functions to serve. A focus group may be understood as a "carefully planned discussion designed to obtain perceptions on a defined area of interest in a permissive, non-threatening environment.

" (Qualitative Research: Focus Groups). Therefore, it is a group of people who are asked about their outlook on a product, service, concept, advertisement, idea, innovation, or a new technology. The most important function of a focus group is to answer to the questions asked in an interactive group setting and in such focus groups participants are given freedom to interact with other members of the group. The several proven benefits of the focus group method lead many researchers to depend on this method in extensive researches.

Critical Review Question 4: The use of a focus group in social researches depends on their advantages and limitations conne