Using case study research as a rigorous form of inquiry

Aim: To describe how case study research (CSR) was used inductively as an all-encompassing theoretical framework to examine learning in the workplace. Background: Case study research is a method with strong philosophical underpinnings which provides a framework for exploratory research in real-life settings (Yin 2009). Data sources: A study of five students' experiences of learning in healthcare environments to explore real-life contexts over the course of two years. The study was rich with empirical data, offering a pragmatic framework for learning in the workplace. Review methods: Observations, interviews and documents were used. Discussion: As a result of using CSR, the findings were analysed systematically and rigorously. Using multiple methods verified data and strengthened the significance of the findings. Conclusions: This paper focuses on the strengths of using the CSR methodology. CSR embraces qualitative research methods in a rigorous and systematic manner. CSR has been applied to one example of research, addressing each step of the research protocol to use CSR to its full potential. Implications for practice/research: CSR enables real-life settings to be studied systematically and rigorously, offering examples of practice in nursing and education. © 2014 RCN Publishing Ltd.