Appendix A: Types of Case Studies - Continued

DOE-STD-1058-93

Case Study Type:

Objective Classifications:

LIVE

DIAGNOSIS

Description and suggested uses:

The live case study is one of the more unique types of case studies in use. The

material for a live case study comes from events that are occurring at the

present time. Often, nothing more than a newspaper article is used to provide

the trainees with the case study information. The instructor provides questions

for thought and to prompt a discussion. The answers are truly unknown when

this case is presented. Only after a few days can the trainee's conclusions be

compared with the actual decisions made. This is usually found in a follow-up

newspaper article, or industry publication. This type of case study can be used

in classes that last several weeks (such as reactor operator qualifications), or for

requalification programs.

Because the information for a live case study is based on current events, it is

difficult to plan for and write into a lesson plan.

To use a live case study, give the trainees up-to-date factual information to start

with. During the remainder of the class, provide an interim problem-solving

exercise. Finally offer opportunities to compare and appraise a variety of

solutions for the problem analyzed (i.e., comparing hypothetical solutions

worked out in the study group against the actual solutions that have been

applied).

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