Pablo Parraga-Ramirez, PhD
Assistant Professor
Michigan State University
"My experience teaching with the University of Waterloo Engineering Cases is great. As a professor I am able to relate the theoretical contents to real life applications, which makes the students be very involved in the class. When students were asked for feedback about the class, they mention they like real life examples and the class being very enjoyable. The cases make class relatively easy to prepare and make me feel more involved when teaching."
Why use cases?
Cases represent a real-world application of engineering principles. They engage students in the material and help them to develop the skills necessary to effectively apply their knowledge of engineering concepts to realistic challenges. They provide appropriate context for concepts covered in class, and can be used to bridge the gap between the classroom and the field by illustrating industrial applications of engineering principles.
When to use cases?
Cases can be used throughout the term. They can be used at the beginning of term to introduce students to course objectives, throughout the term to introduce or provide an application of course concepts, and/or at the end of term to integrate important course concepts.
How to use cases?
Cases are a very flexible pedagogical tool. They can be used as in-class examples, as assignments, as quizzes, as the basis for group and class discussions, and/or as projects. Students can work on cases individually or in groups. Cases can take as little as one lecture or assignment, or can form the basis for a term-long project.
Getting started
To request a copy of a WCDE case please fill out the Request a Case form.
To request new case development for your course please contact us.
See our Case Storyboards for ideas on how to implement a case study.
For more information about teaching with cases, writing cases, and all other inquiries, please contact us.