Case Studies/Case-based Learning
Overview
Case studies support authentic, active learning experiences centered around real world situations that present an account of a particular set of circumstances for learners to engage with. Case studies can be fact-driven, requiring deductive Reasoning to reach a correct answer or context-driven with multiple reasonable solutions. Case-based learning allows learners to investigate and discuss real-life problems from multiple perspectives, which promotes critical thinking, a part of Problem Solving, Cognitive Flexibility, and Motivation. Instructors and learning experience designers have the opportunity to introduce concepts of diversity and inclusion connected to real-life cases, which can foster cultural intelligence.
Use It In Your Learning Environment
Case studies are most effective with adult learners when paired with experiential learning and discourse centered around critical thinking and multiple perspectives. Common tools used for case studies include newspaper articles, essays, medical files, legal cases, and business cases presented as text, audio, and/or video.
Instructors can bring abstract concepts to life and make theories coherent, meaningful, and memorable through cases. Case-based learning provides ways to deepen conversations, prompt new questions and perspectives, make connections, and open minds to diversity. To foster intrinsic Motivation, interest, relevance, and self-directed learning, instructors could provide a selection of cases from which to choose. Alternatively, the learners could locate a case study or create one themselves that exemplifies an idea, concept, or theory.
Characteristics of highly effective cases include a clear focus, enough data to make the case comprehensible, details that could be used as evidence, perspectives of various stakeholders, an element of mystery or controversy, depth requiring analysis, and an opportunity for learners to generate new insights. Effective use of case-based learning provokes rich discussion and helps deepen learners' awareness of their diverse community of learners.
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Active Learning Strategies
Experts can answer questions and provide vocabulary, processes, feedback, and scaffolds to help learners deepen their understanding.
When learners process and express information visually, they are activating more cognitive processes while Problem Solving.
When preparing for and executing a debate, learners analyze, form, and express verbal arguments, fostering their critical thinking skills, an essential component of Problem Solving.
Debriefing is the intentional discussion immediately following a learning experience which is especially important after simulation-based learning.
Analyzing errors is especially beneficial in helping learners develop a Learner Mindset and critical thinking skills, which are a component of Problem Solving.
Networking and supporting adult learners in expanding their social networks provide access to additional resources and Social Supports, which can impact their trajectory and Motivation.
Experiential learning is learning by doing, which may include self-directed learning activities.
Giving learners the opportunity to explain their thinking process aloud helps them to solidify their comprehension, and move knowledge into their Long-term Memory.
Game-based learning is an active learning experience with clear objectives and measurable outcomes designed to be intrinsically game-like.
Inquiry-based learning is centered around open-ended questions posed by instructors and/or the learners themselves and fosters a Learner Mindset.
For adults, the Composition process can become more robust when learners can express ideas through multiple media, which includes visual, audio, and digital production.
Effective note-taking during lectures or reading directs learners' Attention to the relevant information, helping them identify key concepts, understand links between ideas and retain information better in their Long-term Memory.
The opportunity to observe peers or experts in action or participate in shadowing can provide a unique and authentic learning experience that often involves questioning, metacognitive thinking, and Problem Solving while providing Social Supports.
When learners provide constructive feedback on each other's work, they reflect on their own understanding, learn to give relevant suggestions, receive specific ways to improve, and engage in Metacognition.
Problem-based learning (PBL) is a learner-centered multidisciplinary approach focused on real world applications using active learning methods.
Simulations and immersive virtual environments provide authentic learning at a level that can spark curiosity and deeper understanding by engaging multiple senses in exploration.
Skills sprints are focused, real world learning experiences for teams in which participants learn new skills while directly designing, developing, or delivering something to their organization.
Analyzing short video clips, replays of important aspects, and videos of oneself applying what has been learned can improve Metacognition and Long-term Memory while fostering a Learner Mindset.
Analyzing and discussing solutions to problems helps students develop a deeper understanding of Problem Solving processes and Numeracy skills.
