Introduction to a Case Study
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Introduction to a Case Study
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We have had the opportunity to be involved with some pretty interesting biotechnology. Some of this seems complicated at times and leads us to wonder how can we sort out the fact from the fiction, the right from the wrong, the good from the bad. Is life really this straightforward that we can easily make the right choices? In fact, sometimes it's really hard to figure out which side of an issue to be on until all the evidence has been sifted through.
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One way to help us think through things is to use a technique called a Case Study. A case study lets us look at one example and study it from all sides so that you can decide how you feel about the issue. What is good about this is that you learn how to analyze a real problem by talking about it with your friends and gathering information on the problem from several sources so you see all the arguments. As you proceed through the Case Study, you will begin to understand how you form opinions and what you think about patenting naturally occurring genes. The habits in learning you develop now will be the groundwork for a successful tomorrow. |
What really is a Case Study?
A Case Study is pretty neat because it is a scenario or story about a complex subject. After reading the story you need to ask yourself: What are the important parts, or the main issues, in the story. You may want to confer with your group members and develop a list of issues. After that, the next step is to understand why the different characters have different attitudes, or viewpoints, about the subject. Then it is time to do some research! The only way to find out which viewpoint is right is to find out more about the topic yourself. Your learning can take off at light speed as you follow the links to people and websites that are knowledgeable on the subject.
Before we begin on our own Case Study, Love Me Tender, we can practice working with another really neat case study.
To begin your journey, right click on the following URL and select "open in New Window": http://powayusd.sdcoe.k12.ca.us/ewe2
1. Answer the 5 questions under Did you Get all this Stuff
2. Read "Meating of the Minds"
3. Follow the directions to get into your group and make a list of the 3 most important issues.
4. As a group, list both the characters and outside stakeholders. Write a description of their perspectives.
5. Do not do the telecollaboration
5. Continue on the Constructing knowledge and follow the directions and write one question from the viewpoint of your selected perspective.
6. Create the "happy ending" or Action Plan
7. Finish by writing the consequences to your actions.
