The Elements of a Chemistry Case: Teaching Chemistry Using the Case Discussion Method

TCE

The Chemical Educator

ISSN: 1430-4171 (electronic version)

Table of Contents

Abstract Volume 1 Issue 6 (1997), S1430-4171(97)06070-6

The Elements of a Chemistry Case: Teaching Chemistry Using the Case Discussion Method

Juliette Lantz and Mary Walczak*

Department of Chemistry, Siena College, Loudonville, NY 12211 and *Department of Chemistry, St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN 55057

Published online: 27 February 1997

Abstract. We have recently introduced the Case Discussion Method as a viable pedagogy for the teaching of chemical principles in a real-world context to introductory level students. This article describes the Case Discussion Method and discusses the critical components in case teaching. Hommers Mining Dilemma was written to teach various principles of electrochemistry in the context of copper mining in a first-year chemistry class; this case is included as an example. The case-teaching note summarizes the case, illustrates its use in class, and provides analysis of the scientific issues.

Key Words: In the Classroom; case studies

(*) Corresponding author. (E-mail: walczak@stolaf.edu)

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