Meeting Abstract
Case studies can be used to guide student learning in small groups and as a class through reading, analysis, and discussion. We developed an ocean acidification case study for students in general science classes. The case topics included ocean chemistry, historical and recent data on carbon dioxide emissions, and shell damage in a marine snail. Specifically, we designed the case study questions at varying levels of cognitive learning ranging from knowledge, comprehension, application, up to analysis. Two weeks later, students were asked to complete a short survey about the content of the case study and their opinion on its effectiveness. Overall, the survey results were positive. For example, 100% of students were able to correctly answer that the Keeling Curve shows increased carbon dioxide emissions. This question was at the level of knowledge and comprehension. Additionally, when it came to understanding ocean acidification, 87% of the students rated the case study as very or extremely effective. Our results indicated that this case study was successful in educating students on ocean acidification. Next, we plan to use the case and administer the survey for another class in the fall to extend these results.
