Three Steps to Adapt Case Studies for Synchronous and Asynchronous Online Learning

• Type of Material: Article
• Authors: Andrea Bixler, Clarke University; Melissa Eslinger, United States Military Academy; Adam J. Kleinschmit, University of Dubuque; Monica M. Gaudier-Diaz, University of North Carolina; Usha Sankar, Fordham University; Patricia Marsteller, Emory University; Carlos C. Goller, North Carolina State University; Sabrina Robertson, University of North Carolina
• Language: English
• Date: 2021-03-31
• Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
• Publication Version: Final Published Version
• Copyright Statement: t © 2021 Bixler et al.
• License: Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 4.0 International
• Final Published Version (URL): http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/jmbe.v22i1.2337
• Title of Journal or Parent Work: Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education
• Volume: 22
• Issue: 1
• Grant/Funding Information: The case study described here is one of many created through the NSF HITS RCN network (NSF award 1730317).
• Keywords: Case study; Biology education; Microbiology; Online education; Synchronous learning
• Research Categories: Biology, General; Health Sciences, Education; Education, Social Sciences; Computer Science

Abstract

Pandemic SARS-CoV-2 has ushered in a renewed interest in science along with rapid changes to educational modalities. While technology provides a variety of ways to convey learning resources, the incorporation of alternate modalities can be intimidating for those designing curricula. We propose strategies to permit rapid adaptation of curricula to achieve learning in synchronous, asynchronous, or hybrid learning environments. Case studies are a way to engage students in realistic scenarios that contextualize concepts and highlight applications in the life sciences. While case studies are commonly available and adaptable to course goals, the practical considerations of how to deliver and assess cases in online and blended environments can instill panic. Here we review existing resources and our collective experiences creating, adapting, and assessing case materials across different modalities. We discuss the benefits of using case studies and provide tips for implementation. Further, we describe functional examples of a three-step process to prepare cases with defined outcomes for individual student preparation, collaborative learning, and individual student synthesis to create an inclusive learning experience, whether in a traditional or remote learning environment.