Yin (1989) believes it is the use of multiple sources of evidence that distinguishes case studies whereas, McBurney (2001) maintains that it is the individuality of the case or situation that characterize case studies. Various authors have seized on different features of case studies that they believe set apart this method. In fact, McBurney (2001) notes “….one of the few generalizations possible about case studies is that it is difficult to generalize about them” (p. Today, features that distinguish the case study design are less clear. However, this distinction has faded over the years ( Ray, 2000). Traditionally, case studies were distinguished by their focus on characteristics surrounding a particular individual. A case study is often simply defined as an in-depth investigation of an individual subject ( Weiten, 2001). ![]() Today, case studies continue to be an important tool for gaining insight into neurological conditions and serve as a valuable method of pedagogy in clinical neuroscience.Ĭase studies are a form of non-experimental research methodology and are considered a type of single-subject research design ( Ray, 2000). Additional authors also argue for the interrelated and complementary role case studies can have with other research methods ( Kazdin, 1998) despite the fact that they have previously been designated as being “exploratory” and merely the source of ideas and hypotheses to be assessed by more empirical approaches ( Bolgar, 1965). Ramachandran continues noting the most advantageous approach for studying neurological conditions begins with the study of individual cases and subsequently verifying that these observations are reliably seen in other patients. Most of the syndromes in neurology have stood the test of time -…(they) were initially discovered by a careful study of a single case, and I don’t know of even one that was discovered by averaging the results of a large sample” (p. Ramachandran (2004) maintains this “…is nonsense. ![]() The case study methodology is often criticized for its lack of generalizability. For example, case studies such as H.M., Phineas Gage, and “Tan” have significantly enhanced our knowledge and facilitated further research in the areas of memory, behavior control, and language, respectively ( Pinel, 2006). Many seminal discoveries and lasting dogma within neuroscience and neurology stem from the results of case studies. or Phineas Gage elicits glimmers of recognition and raised hands. Cases are categorized by the type of neurological disorder and notes regarding the nature of and content of each case are provided.Īsking a new crop of neuroscience students the functions associated with the hippocampus or frontal lobes usually produces a classroom of diverted gazes. A table listing case studies appropriate for undergraduate neuroscience courses is included. The third exercise emphasizes the use of case studies as a platform to examine competing hypotheses regarding neurological conditions and their treatment. The second exercise discusses how students might conduct their own case studies. The vast majority of students indicated this exercise was a valuable learning experience sparked interest in the topic and in biopsychology increased their knowledge and stimulated critical thinking. Survey results of 90 students provide quantitative and qualitative support for this approach. The first exercise requires students to conduct a literature review regarding their assigned case and then design an experiment to address a lingering question regarding that neurological disorder. Three exercises are described for incorporating case studies into neuroscience courses. can be used to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of the case study methodology. It also illustrates how the seminal case of H.M. ![]() This article describes the value of the case study methodology and its advantages as a pedagogical approach. Attaching a name, face, and story to the study of neurological disorders makes them more “real” and memorable. Case studies have been the cornerstone of many discoveries in neurology and continue to be an indispensable source of knowledge.
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