National Center for Case Studies in Teaching Science
Overview
The National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science (NCCSTS) is a United States-based initiative that aims to promote the development and dissemination of case study teaching methods in science education. Established in 1999, the center is housed at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY). The NCCSTS serves as a resource for educators at all levels, providing access to an extensive library of peer-reviewed case studies and supporting materials, professional development opportunities, and a platform for collaboration and exchange of ideas.
History
The National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science was established in 1999 by Clyde (Kipp) Herreid, a Distinguished Teaching Professor at the University at Buffalo, SUNY. Herreid recognized a need for a centralized resource to support the use of case studies in science education, a teaching method that had proven effective in fields such as business and law but was less commonly used in the sciences. The center was initially funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), with the goal of improving undergraduate science education through the development and dissemination of case studies and case teaching methods.
Mission and Goals
The NCCSTS is dedicated to advancing science education through the use of case studies. The center's mission is to promote active learning in the sciences by providing educators with the tools and resources needed to implement case study teaching methods. The NCCSTS aims to improve student engagement and understanding of scientific concepts, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare students for future careers in science and related fields.
Activities and Services
The NCCSTS offers a range of services and resources to support case study teaching in science. These include:
- Case Collection: The center maintains an extensive, peer-reviewed collection of case studies in all areas of science. These cases are available for free to educators and students.
- Case Study Method Training: The NCCSTS offers workshops and other professional development opportunities for educators interested in learning how to use case studies effectively in their teaching.
- Online Community: The center hosts an online community where educators can share experiences, ask questions, and collaborate on case study development.
- Research and Evaluation: The NCCSTS conducts research on the effectiveness of case study teaching methods and provides resources for educators interested in evaluating their own case teaching practices.
Impact
Since its establishment, the NCCSTS has had a significant impact on science education in the United States and beyond. The center's case collection is used by thousands of educators worldwide, and its training programs have helped many teachers and professors incorporate case studies into their teaching. Research conducted by the NCCSTS and others has shown that case study teaching can improve student engagement, understanding of scientific concepts, and critical thinking skills.