What is a key characteristic of a case study in research?

A key characteristic of a case study in research is its focus on exploring a specific problem within a bounded system. This approach allows researchers to gain in-depth insights into complex issues by examining them in their real-life context. The bounded system can involve a particular individual, group, organization, or phenomenon, which is analyzed thoroughly to provide a comprehensive understanding of the unique dynamics and particularities at play.

By concentrating on a specific case, researchers can consider various influencing factors and variables that contribute to the situation being studied. This richness of detail and context helps to uncover underlying themes and relationships that might not be evident in more generalized research designs. Case studies are often qualitative in nature, emphasizing a deep understanding rather than quantifiable metrics.

In contrast, the other options suggest characteristics that are not typically associated directly with case studies. For example, a focus on quantitative analysis usually pertains to different research methodologies that emphasize statistical data rather than the qualitative insights typical in case studies. Examining multiple cases across various contexts aligns more with comparative research methods rather than the singular focus characteristic of case studies. Lastly, while case studies might utilize qualitative data extensively, they can also incorporate quantitative data to provide a more rounded understanding, making the limitation to solely qualitative data inaccurate.