4.1. Introduction
The case study method appeared under similar circumstances as the problem based learning method. Christopher Columbus Laugdel, who worked in Harvard Law School, first applied this method and used the cases from Appellate Court. The author concluded, that case study not only helps to acquire necessary professional skills, but also develops skills of thinking. The method spread across universities all around the world, and later in schools as well.
The case study method is close to problem based learning, yet it is not as difficult. This is the reason of its popularity in classrooms around the world. The case study method and problem based learning method belong to the same class of inquiry-based teaching methods. In both cases students are taught to solve real and relevant problems by means of practical activity and application of subject knowledge. The methods differ in the role of the teacher and structuring and delivery of the subject content. Nilson (2010) indicates that a teacher who applies the case study method firstly gives a structured presentation of the content: the main facts, knowledge, rules and laws that students must learn. Students do not need to do this independently, thus there are less requirements for students and less time required for learning. When the structured material is provided, students get the description of the real life case study to analyse. This description is structured and delivered according to the same requirements as in problem based learning. Students have an active role that allows them to develop the same skills as in problem based learning: cooperation, critical thinking, evaluation, ethical consequences of the decision and many others. Duration and continuity is another advantage of the method. Nilson (2010) distinguishes three types according to this criterion:
- Short cases are given in order to consolidate subject knowledge in a classroom or at home. 20-30 mins are sufficient to carry out the task, then the teacher can evaluate which part of the subject students understood and can apply.
- Continuous cases are the cases who are developed throughout several topics.
- Consecutive cases are the cases when the development of the story depends on what decision has been made. Solution of one problematic situation leads to another problematic situation that should be discussed under another sub-topic.
Online ResourcesWhen the case study method is applied the whole subject content can be related to real life problems that are relevant in students’ environment. Due to this reason the case study method is applied widely in classrooms to teach various subjects.
