What exploratory research technique intensively investigates existing situations similar to the current problem?

The case study technique is particularly effective for exploratory research because it allows for an in-depth examination of existing situations that closely resemble the current problem being investigated. By analyzing specific instances or examples, researchers can uncover insights and patterns that may not be evident through other research methods.

Case studies typically involve a detailed analysis of a single case or a small number of cases, enabling researchers to explore various dimensions of the problem, including context, variables at play, and the outcomes that resulted. This rich qualitative data can provide a nuanced understanding of the issue and inform the development of hypotheses or the design of further research.

In contrast, other techniques like field studies tend to rely more on observing and gathering data in real-world environments without the focused scrutiny of a single case. Experimental design is primarily used to establish causal relationships through controlled experiments rather than exploring existing situations. Focus groups gather opinions and perceptions from a group but may not provide the detailed context and depth offered by case studies. Therefore, case studies emerge as the most suitable method for exploring and analyzing pre-existing situations that are similar to the current research problem.