Case study in depth analysis – UGC NET Question

A case study is a detailed examination of a bounded unit such as a person, group, institution, programme or event over a period of time. It uses multiple sources like interviews, observations, documents and records to build a rich picture of the case. The emphasis is on depth of understanding in context rather than broad generalisation. Because the stem refers to intensive investigation of a single entity using multiple sources, case study is the correct term.

Option A:
Case studies allow the researcher to explore complex relationships and processes that might be missed in large-scale surveys or experiments. They are particularly useful when the phenomenon is unique, poorly understood or context-dependent. This focus on an in-depth exploration of a single case matches the description in the question, confirming case study as the appropriate answer.

Option B:
A survey typically collects data from a larger sample of individuals using questionnaires or interviews to describe trends or attitudes at a population level. It does not usually focus intensively on a single individual or institution. Hence, survey is not the correct completion here.

Option C:
An experiment manipulates independent variables and uses control groups to test causal effects under controlled conditions. Although experiments can be conducted on small samples, their purpose is not the holistic examination of a single bounded case through multiple evidence sources. Therefore, experiment does not fit the stem.

Option D:
Meta-analysis is a statistical technique that synthesises the results of multiple independent studies on a similar topic to produce overall effect estimates. It operates across many studies rather than concentrating on a single individual or institution. Thus, meta-analysis is not the right answer for this question.