What defines a case study in communication research?

A case study in communication research is characterized by an in-depth exploration of a single unit. This unit can be an individual, a group, an event, an organization, or a community, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the subject in its specific context.

The depth of research in a case study enables researchers to gather rich qualitative and quantitative data, fostering insights into complex phenomena that may not be evident through broader, more superficial analyses. By focusing on one unit, researchers can examine nuances, establish relationships, and understand the dynamics at play within that particular case. This approach is particularly beneficial in communication research, where context and interaction patterns are critical to understanding communication behaviors and outcomes.

The other options represent different research methodologies that do not align with the case study framework. For example, comparative analyses involve assessing multiple groups, while random sampling focuses on acquiring a representative sample from a larger population, and statistical assessments are concerned with generalizing findings across broad datasets. These approaches do not provide the detailed, context-specific insights that a case study aims to achieve.