Premium
A guide to using case‐based learning in biochemistry education
Author(s) -
Kulak Verena,
Newton Genevieve
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
biochemistry and molecular biology education
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.34
H-Index - 39
eISSN - 1539-3429
pISSN - 1470-8175
DOI - 10.1002/bmb.20823
Subject(s) - memorization , rote learning , active learning (machine learning) , class (philosophy) , process (computing) , psychology , value (mathematics) , teaching method , mathematics education , chemistry , biochemistry , computer science , cooperative learning , artificial intelligence , machine learning , operating system
Studies indicate that the majority of students in undergraduate biochemistry take a surface approach to learning, associated with rote memorization of material, rather than a deep approach, which implies higher cognitive processing. This behavior relates to poorer outcomes, including impaired course performance and reduced knowledge retention. The use of case‐based learning (CBL) into biochemistry teaching may facilitate deep learning by increasing student engagement and interest. Abundant literature on CBL exists but clear guidance on how to design and implement case studies is not readily available. This guide provides a representative review of CBL uses in science and describes the process of developing CBL modules to be used in biochemistry. Included is a framework to implement a directed CBL assisted with lectures in a content‐driven biochemistry course regardless of class size. Moreover, this guide can facilitate adopting CBL to other courses. Consequently, the information presented herein will be of value to undergraduate science educators with an interest in active learning pedagogies. © 2014 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 42(6):457–473, 2014.