Effective Instructional Tools for Authentic Learning
Cases are effective instructional tools that reflect real-life problem situations and create authentic learning environments. When students engage with cases, they analyze, synthesize, apply knowledge, and perform evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving.
Develop situations in real-life terms using factual information. Include quotes, exhibits, and pictures to add realism. The problem scenario should be relevant to the real world so students can experience a snapshot of reality.
Open with broadest questions, then face specific situations. Close with full development of specific issues. Use primarily narrative style—a story-telling format with details about actions and people involved.
Topics and content should be appropriate and important to particular students. Case ideas must be relevant to learning objectives and needs in practice.
Don't propound theories—pose complex issues without simple solutions. Controversy creates learning at many levels: substantive learning, communication, and persuasion skills. Handle theory relationships through discussion.
Include events and how people perceive them. Provide enough description for students to situate the problem, understand issues, and identify with the decision-maker's position. Include descriptions of people involved.
Cases should be easy to read and access. Prepare an outline to organize materials. Ensure clarity and refinement in your presentation of the case.