Planning Time for Case Studies Within a Single Course
Case studies are powerful tools to help students connect theory to real-life challenges. But to make them truly effective, students need time—time to understand the case, to discuss ideas, and to reflect on what they’ve learned. If rushed, students may miss important insights or feel overwhelmed.
Good planning helps avoid this. By including case study activities in your course schedule and making sure there’s enough time for each phase—preparation, teamwork, and feedback—you create space for deeper learning. Want to see how this works in practice? Click on the video below to discover strategies for effective time planning!
Personal reflection
What are the three main phases to consider when planning time for case study activities?
Preparation (students analyse the case individually), collaboration (group brainstorming and working on solutions), and feedback (reflecting on what they’ve learned with input from peers or the teacher).
Why is careful time planning essential for case studies?
It gives students the time they need to fully understand and explore the case, work together effectively, and reflect on their learning. Without enough time, learning outcomes may suffer.
How can teachers build flexibility into their course schedules for case-based work?
Teachers can add buffer days to allow for unexpected delays or extended discussion. They can also adjust the length or depth of case activities depending on the needs of the class.