Whiteboard Mini-Case Studies

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student writing on a whiteboard imageWhiteboard Mini-Case Studies

Mini-Case Studies are a more engaging way for students to practice and review material either independently or in small groups. Students/groups answer questions about "real world" scenarios using small sections of whiteboard and dry-erase marker. By holding up the board when they are finished, answers can be quickly and easily assessed.

 

  1. Individual students or groups are given small sections of whiteboard and a dry-erase marker.
  2. A mini-case study is projected on the screen. These case studies involve a hypothetical "real world" problem with relevant questions for students to work through. For example, have Human Life Science students imagine they are doctors treating a patient with a particular set of symptoms. Student groups discuss the symptoms and make a prediction about what is causing the symptoms.
  3. Students write their answers to the question/s on their whiteboard. When they complete their answers, they hold the whiteboard up and the instructor can quickly scan the answers to ensure everyone is on the same page.

The Whiteboard Mini-Case Studies is an example of a low-stakes formative assessment that engages students with practical application of course material.

Formative assessment:

  • Elicits evidence of student learning
  • Improves student understanding of intended disciplinary learning outcomes
  • Increases the responsiveness of instruction
  • Helps students identify strengths and weaknesses

Engagement practices:

  • The whiteboards are a non-threatening way for students to express their understanding and engage. Their answers are not written in stone and and be quickly changed.
  • Students engage with each other to collaborate on an answer building a team spirit
  • Require students to actively participate in their learning
  • Foster community by highlighting commonalities in students’ experiences

Meaningful practical application of the material

  • When educators bring real-world examples into the classroom, it makes learning more meaningful to students. It often helps with student motivation to pay attention and engage with the content.