医学研究における数的研究と症例研究の相補的関係

抄録

It seems that research designs with large sample size employing statistical analysis are regarded as valuable in modern research of medicine or public health. Significance of case study may be forgotten in recent years. In quantitative researches based on a large number of cases, individuality and bumpiness of each cases are leveled flatly, and we cannot acquire precise information about personal histories behind each cases, course of diseases or process of treatment from such researches. Case studies can provide meaningful information to those engaged in clinical practice or public health activities in communities. There is complementary relationship between quantitative researches with large sample size and case studies, and both types of study are essential. However, professional skills which each professional acquire through his experience are not sufficiently described in case studies as well as in qualitative researches. The author thinks that we could acquire professional skills only through working with and learning from experts under apprenticeship system. In medical disciplines, we come to be able to make scientific and effective interventions, when three types of learning; knowing information from qualitative researches, learning from case studies and acquisition of skills through practical experience under apprenticeship system, meet together.