Case studies can be used by academics in teaching as effecient tools to assist students to connect theory to real-world practice, develop problem-solving skills, and engage in active learning. Here’s how:
Case studies make abstract theories tangible by showing how they apply in real situations.
Example: In a business course, a case study on Apple’s marketing strategy helps students see how branding theories work in practice.
Students must analyse data, identify issues, evaluate options, and propose solutions.
This builds skills in reasoning, evidence-based argumentation, and decision-making
Rather than passively listening to lectures, students actively engage with material.
Discussion-based or simulation-style case studies promote participation and collaboration.
Many case studies are conducted in small groups where students must debate and justify their ideas.
This mirrors professional settings where teamwork and persuasive communication are key.
Academics can use case studies as assessment tools to evaluate how well students apply what they’ve learned.
For instance, an economics lecturer might ask students to analyse a country’s fiscal policy case and make recommendation
Some case studies present moral or ethical dilemmas, prompting students to reflect on professional responsibility and values.
Common in disciplines like medicine, law, and education.
Business/Management: Strategy analysis, leadership challenges.
Engineering: Design problems, project management failures.
Health Sciences: Clinical scenarios and patient cases.
Social Sciences: Community issues, policy analysis.
Education: Classroom management or curriculum design examples.