The use of case studies in science is actually a group of methods used to stimulate student critical thinking and inquiry learning. Science case studies can be complex or they can simple in design. The important component of any case study is to engage students in the learning process as they use problem based learning strategies to solve the case.
Case studies in science are appropriate for all grade levels in science education. The degree of difficulty increases with grade level. This is due to students relying on their prior knowledge and experiences in science, which influences their reasoning ability.
Science Case Study Methods
This type of problem centered study is similar to problem based learning. Students assess the problem, determine what is known, research, and determine an answer for the problem. Here are example methods used in science case studies:
Discussion/Debate – after assessing the case study and developing solutions, students form groups and debate the issues in the case. For example:
- Pro Group
- Con Group
- Special Interest Group
- Expert Panel
Public Hearing Format – after assessing different aspects of a case study, a panel is selected to represent public officials and expert witnesses (small groups) present their view of the case study’s issues. For example:
- Science Experts
- Concerned Citizens
- Concerned Businesses
- Public Officials
- Special Interest Groups
Scientific Research Team – students form groups and role play specific scientists to ask questions, form a hypothesis, make predictions, investigate, analyze data, and defend their findings. For example each group should have a:
- Biology Scientist
- Chemistry Scientist
- Physics Scientist
- Earth/Space Scientist
- Environmental Scientist
Sample Science Case Study
Humans Affect on the Local Watershed
For humans to survive they need water, however there is only a limited amount of water for everyone to use on the earth. The community is locked in a debate about the appropriate use of existing water supplies and the need to expand business development.
Just last month the local newspaper ran a story about the lack of additional sources of water for the community. The article also stated that unless additional sources of water could be located, the community is at risk of running out of water in 20 years.
Today the local newspaper has a story about a new industry which wants to move into the community. This industry needs a large amount of water for its manufacturing process. This new industry is expected to add 200 new jobs and provide additional taxes to support the community.
The local government is going to hold a public hearing on the matter in two weeks. You are to present your view at this hearing.
Science Case Study Student Participation
Your students are divided into groups and given a specific role in the case study. This alleviates multiple groups doing the same research. Students groups may include:
- Local Water and Sanitation Board Members
- Concerned Citizens for Too Much Business Growth
- Concerned Citizens for Additional Business Growth
- The New Industry’s Representatives
- Concerned Citizens for the Environment
- Local Community College Science Department
Students are given several days to research and prepare a multimedia presentation to represent their view at the public hearing. This case study relies on students’ prior knowledge and experiences, along with their science inquiry skills to present a sound argument at the public hearing.
This is just an example of how science case studies can be used as a means of problem based learning. Additional sources to support this type of learning are found at Scientific Method and Problem Based Learning and Problem Solving and Science Process Skills.
David R. Wetzel - Dr. David Wetzel's experience includes more than 25 years in continuing, adult, and teacher education.
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