Case Studies: Rationale and Instructions

Application of Theory to Real-World Scenarios: Case studies provide students with practical examples where they can apply theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems. This bridges the gap between academic content and real-life practice.

Development of Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: Through case studies, students must analyze complex situations, identify problems, and evaluate possible solutions. This type of assignment encourages critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

Engagement with Course Material: Case studies are engaging because they are often based on real-life situations or challenges. This type of activity encourages students to think deeply about the material and relate it to their own experiences or aspirations.

Encourages Collaboration (If Group Work Is Used): In some cases, students may be asked to work in groups to discuss and analyze a case. This fosters collaboration, communication, and teamwork, all of which are critical in professional environments.

Enhances Research and Analytical Skills: A case study often requires students to research additional information to support their analysis, enhancing their research skills. They must also analyze the data or facts of the case and present logical, well-supported conclusions.

Prepares for Professional Practice: Case studies often mimic real challenges professionals face in various industries. This allows students to gain practical insights and prepares them for situations they may encounter in their careers.

1. Select a Case Study:
   • Choose or develop a case study that aligns with the course learning objectives. You may select a real-world example from current events, an industry-specific problem, or create a fictional scenario that reflects relevant issues in your field.
   • The case study should be detailed enough to challenge students but also manageable in scope for their level of study.
2. Provide the Case Study to Students:
   • Create a document or webpage in your Learning Management System (e.g., Brightspace) that outlines the case study. This should include:
     • A clear description of the scenario or problem.
     • Background information or context relevant to the case.
     • Any supporting data, charts, or documentation needed to analyze the case.
     • Guiding questions or key issues that students should consider as they work on the case.
3. Set Assignment Guidelines:
   • Instructions: Provide clear instructions on how students should approach the case study. These should include:
     • Whether the case should be analyzed individually or in groups.
     • What format the final submission should take (e.g., a written report, presentation, or video).
     • The expected length or word count for the assignment.
     • Guidelines on using external sources for research (e.g., referencing styles, required citations).
   • Submission Type: Specify how students should submit their work (e.g., file upload or link submission).
4. Outline Learning Objectives:
   • Be explicit about what students should learn from completing the case study. For example:
     • Analyze complex, real-world situations using theoretical knowledge.
     • Identify the key issues and provide logical, evidence-based recommendations.
     • Engage in research and critical thinking to support conclusions.
5. Provide Guiding Questions (Optional):
   • To help structure their analysis, provide a list of guiding questions that students should consider. These could include:
     • What are the key problems or issues presented in this case?
     • How do the facts relate to the theories and concepts you’ve learned in the course?
     • What are potential solutions, and what are the pros and cons of each?
     • What additional information or research might be helpful to analyze this case fully?
     • What would you recommend as a course of action based on the evidence provided?
6. Define Assessment Criteria:
   • Provide students with a rubric or clear grading criteria that outline how their work will be evaluated. Consider the following elements when grading a case study:
     • Analysis: How thoroughly and accurately has the student analyzed the situation?
     • Application of Theory: How well has the student applied relevant theories or concepts from the course?
     • Critical Thinking: Has the student demonstrated logical, well-supported conclusions and solutions?
     • Research: Has the student used appropriate sources to support their analysis?
     • Presentation: Is the work well-organized, clearly written, and properly formatted?
7. Support Students Throughout the Process:
   • Provide opportunities for students to ask questions or seek clarification as they work through the case study. You can offer:
     • Discussion Forums: Create a discussion forum where students can ask questions or discuss the case with their peers.
     • Virtual Office Hours: Schedule virtual office hours where students can meet with you individually or in groups to discuss their progress.
8. Encourage Peer Collaboration (Optional):
   • If you want students to collaborate, consider assigning the case study as a group project. In this case, assign students to groups within the LMS and set up a shared workspace or group discussion board where they can collaborate.
9. Set Submission Deadlines and Provide Feedback:
   • Set a Due Date: Assign a due date for the final submission.
   • Review Submissions: After students submit their work, review the case study analyses, providing constructive feedback on their reasoning, research, and problem-solving skills.
   • Offer Post-Assignment Discussion (Optional): After grading, consider having a follow-up class or discussion forum where students can share their analyses and learn from different perspectives.