The key to a good case to use is to make it realistic. If students can see themselves or see their friends as being like the person described, then they will find the discussion interesting and worthwhile. It is also important for the instructor to provide a comfortable atmosphere and to identify some specific open-ended and thought provoking questions to ask the group. These are some examples of questions that can begin to generate good discussions. This is an example of a case study which focuses on time management issues.
Additional cases are available.
Joe's Predicament Joe is a first year student who moved into Carman Hall five weeks ago. He has adjusted well to college life and, until recently, he believed that he was going to do well in his classes. However, he was just reminded by a friend that he has an important test tomorrow in Biology 1001. Joe has not even opened the biology book, nor has he done any studying this week. He was concentrating on writing his essay.