Why Use Case Studies and Case Based Instruction?

No instructional method is perfect for every learning context or content. So, what are the strengths, and appropriate applications of the case method / case studies? Here's a brief listing of potential benefits and applicabilities of what is essentially a problem-solving method:

• Can create the need to know by evoking curiousity.
• Provides an opportunity to think about application and practice, not just theory.
• Helps with development and application of critical thinking skills.
• Enhance the listening/cooperative learning skills.
• Develop problem solving skills.
• Encourages examination of multiple points of view/hearing various voices.
• Builds partnership/collegiality among learners and teacher.
• Encourages attention to and self-consciousness about assumptions and conceptions,
• Reflects the contextual, situated, complex nature or knowledge.
• Teaches students that there may not be one "right" answer, after all.
• Illustrates interaction among variables (especially human ones).