Definition of the word case study

The term "case study" originated in the field of psychology in the late 19th century. It was coined by scientists who sought to analyze and understand complex human experiences by examining individual cases in detail. The idea was to study real-life situations as examples or models, rather than generalize based on theoretical principles alone. In the early 1900s, the use of case studies expanded to other disciplines, such as medicine, law, and business. In medicine, case studies were employed to investigate and document unusual medical conditions, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments. In law, they were used to examine legal issues in specific situations, providing insights into possible legal outcomes and trends. In business, case studies were utilized to analyze management decisions, identify successful strategies, and provide a basis for future business practices. The popularity of case studies increased significantly in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in the field of business education. Case studies were used as teaching tools, inspiring students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, and facilitating problem-solving skills. Today, case studies are widely employed across various fields, including economics, sociology, and politics. They are acknowledged as a valuable source of insight into specific situations, providing a deeper understanding of the context and enabling informed decision-making. In summary, the term "case study" refers to a detailed analysis of a specific event, circumstance, or situation, with the aim of understanding and learning from it.