Exploration of the efficacy of the case method of teaching

Abstract

Synopsis

The purpose of this research is to identify studies that had been undertaken to determine the efficacy of the case method of teaching as compared to the lecture method in an academic setting. An extensive search of secondary sources to identify research was undertaken to determine the effectiveness of case teaching as compared to the lecture method. The findings of this study indicate within the research reviewed the following positive results of case teaching noted by students: enhanced learning of the subject; heightened student engagement in the classroom; and the receipt of higher grades in some disciplines. The following negative results are also found: lack of understanding of course content and the method is more challenging and time consuming. In a national survey of faculty using the case method for the first time, the following positive outcomes of utilizing the case method were found: develops strong critical-thinking skills, greater retention of course material and more active engagement in the classroom. The limitations are the inconsistency of variables measured in the study and the small sample sizes. “Recommendations for further study include the use of larger sample sizes and a control group using the lecture method of teaching.”

Research methodology

An extensive search for all studies is performed in the classroom to evaluate and compare the use of the case method as compared to the lecture method of teaching.

Relevant courses and levels

The courses evaluated in the study are from a variety of disciplines in universities.

Theoretical bases

A review of research studies is performed to evaluate the efficacy of the case method of teaching as compared to the lecture method.

Citation

Reed, M.M. and Brunson, R.R. (2018), "Exploration of the efficacy of the case method of teaching", , Vol. 14 No. 3, pp. 362-371. https://doi.org/10.1108/TCJ-01-2018-0009