Case Studies for Critical Inquiry

Purpose Case studies are powerful pedagogical tools that immerse learners in complex, real world scenarios. They encourage learners to: • Analyze problems critically. • Reflect on diverse perspectives. • Collaboratively generate solutions. • Connect theory to practice. Design Principles 1. Curriculum Alignment – Ensure the case links directly to learning outcomes. 2. Authenticity – Use real or realistic scenarios that mirror community/professional challenges. 3. Complexity – Present dilemmas with multiple stakeholders and no single “correct” answer. 4. Guiding Questions – Scaffold inquiry with prompts that encourage analysis, evaluation, and reflection. 5. Collaboration – Structure group work to foster dialogue and shared problem solving. 6. Reflection – Include opportunities for learners to connect case insights to theory and personal experience. Sample Case Study Narrative Title: Addressing Malnutrition in a Local School Background: A primary school in a semi urban community has reported rising cases of malnutrition among learners. Teachers notice fatigue, poor concentration, and declining academic performance. Parents cite economic hardship, while health officials warn of long term developmental risks. An NGO has offered to support, but resources are limited. Stakeholders: • Teachers – Concerned about learning outcomes and classroom performance. • Parents – Struggling with economic constraints and food insecurity. • Health Officials – Focused on nutrition standards and child health. • NGO Representatives – Offering limited support and advocacy. • Local Government – Responsible for policy and resource allocation. Central Dilemma: How can the school community collaboratively address malnutrition among learners, balancing limited resources with urgent needs? Guiding Questions 1. What are the root causes of malnutrition in this context? 2. Which stakeholders hold the most influence, and how should they collaborate? 3. What short term interventions could be implemented immediately? 4. What long term strategies would ensure sustainability? 5. How does this case illustrate principles of authentic pedagogy (constructivism, experiential learning, socio cultural theory)? Facilitation Steps 1. Introduce the Case – Present background and dilemma. 2. Group Work – Assign stakeholder roles and have groups analyze perspectives. 3. Discussion – Facilitate a plenary debate where groups propose solutions. 4. Reflection – Learners write short journal entries connecting the case to theory and evaluating transferability to other contexts. Assessment Suggestions • Formative: Observe group participation, reasoning, and collaboration. • Summative: Assess written case analyses or presentations. • Reflective Journals: Evaluate learners’ ability to connect theory to practice and consider cultural responsiveness.