Case-based learning is a powerful method employed by educators to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills in learners by presenting real or hypothetical scenarios for analysis and discussion. Here's how you can incorporate case-based learning into your next learning design: 1. Choose a relevant case study: Select a real-life or hypothetical scenario that aligns with the learning objectives of your course. Ensure the case is engaging, relatable, and challenges learners to think critically. 2. Provide context: Introduce the case study to learners by setting the context and outlining the key issues or problems to be addressed. This helps learners understand the situation and prepares them for analysis. 3. Encourage exploration: Encourage learners to delve deep into the case study, analyze the details, identify the main problems, and propose potential solutions. Encourage group discussions to promote collaboration and diverse perspectives. 4. Facilitate reflection: Guide learners through reflective exercises that prompt them to connect the case study to theoretical concepts, personal experiences, or previous knowledge. Encourage them to evaluate the outcomes of different solutions. 5. Foster decision-making: Challenge learners to make informed decisions based on their analysis of the case study. Encourage them to defend their decisions using evidence and logical reasoning. 6. Provide feedback: Offer feedback on learners' analyses
Case-based learning is an effective teaching method for adult learners in higher education or professional development when the goal is to develop problem-solving skills. It is a method of instruction that uses real-world scenarios to help learners understand and apply concepts. Through this approach, learners are able to gain a deeper understanding of the material by analyzing and discussing the case and its implications. This method also encourages learners to think critically and develop their own solutions to the problem.
Case-based learning is not suitable for all learning contexts. it is best suited for learners who are able to draw on their own experiences and knowledge to solve problems. If the learners are not familiar with the subject matter, or lack the necessary skills to apply their knowledge, then this approach may not be effective. Additionally, if the learning objectives are focused on memorisation or recall of facts, then case-based learning may not be the best approach.
You have to prepare one or more cases for the learners. Learners themselves should be provided with the necessary background information and be given the opportunity to discuss and analyse the case prior to the session.
At the end of this session, learners will be able to identify and apply key concepts to real-world scenarios, and will have the skills to develop their own solutions to similar problems.
