Teacher Section

I. Advance Preparation -

none

II. Introduction -

A case study is a study of a person involved in a particular set of circumstances. All of the variables are analyzed and application is made for the individual and the decisions are extended to others who may face the same set of circumstances. The individual may be faced with some ethical and moral decisions. Therefore, case studies are valuable sources of information and decision making.

III. Student Objectives -

1. To read case studies

2. To think critically to answer the ethical decisions

3. To explore a decision-making model

4. To brainstorm some solutions through group consensus

IV. Class time needed -

5 periods

V. Materials -

Case Study #1 - Down's Syndrome

Case Study Analysis

List of Values

VI. Procedure

Case studies can be used in a variety of ways or you may combine these different techniques in any way that works best for you. In the first two methods the students may/may not give oral reports.

1. Use it as a group assignment or cooperative learning lesson

Break students into groups (you assign groups or the students select their own group)

Students read the case study and select only one ethical question to discuss

Each group completes one group worksheet

2. Use for an individual assignment

Assign a case study for the student to read and have them answer the ethical questions themselves. Be sure the student gives reasons for their answers.

When grading, grade on whether the student supported their opinion rather than what their opinion was. Give positive encouragement.

3. Use as group discussion

Assign a case study for the entire class to read.

Discuss each ethical question for the study separately.

How to write a case study (enclosed is an example)

1. Choose an interesting subject area for the case study. (It should be Biology related.)

2. Research (in newspapers, TV news, magazines or your memory) for a case that sounds interesting and that can generate a few open ended, ethical questions. True cases are the best!

3. You may also make up a case study from your knowledge of any area of Biology.

4. The case study should be personalized by including names of the participants (change the names if using a real case) in the case study and their offspring, relatives and life style. As many details as can be simply included make it more interesting.

5. The case study should be no longer than 1 page (double spaced typed)

6. The case study should include at least 5 ethical questions for the students to address.

7. Make sure there is enough of a dilemma in your case study that when you ask yourself the ethical question, the answer doesn't come easily.

8. Do not be afraid of controversy. If others don't feel comfortable with your case study, they don't have to use it.