Using Interrupted Case Studies Can Increase Student Learning and Critical Thinking

Research shows that case studies can help students learn how to apply theories and generate practical solutions to problems. Interrupted case-based instruction refers to providing case study information to students in small parts, separated by time. Students receive information presented in a logical sequence, and they are instructed to ask questions, examine the evidence, and make predictions about what will happen next. Students then receive more information and re-examine their predictions. In this study, the researcher examined whether using an interrupted case study presented through a series of video documentaries would increase students’ critical thinking in a human development course.

The researchers tested the effectiveness of using the Up series of documentaries as an interrupted case study. Students watched the documentaries and completed tests and essays. The researchers analyzed the test scores, essay responses, and self-reported learning to evaluate the effectiveness of the interrupted case studies for student learning.

The researchers determined that using the Up documentary as an interrupted case study improved the students’ ability to think critically about human development theories. Students’ test scores increased from the beginning to the end of the semester. Student essays written later in the semester contained more examples of higher-order thinking. Students self-reported that they were better able to analyze and critically evaluate ideas than students who took the course in previous semesters (and did not complete the interrupted case study assignments). Interrupted video case studies can be used to improve critical thinking skills.