Case Study Collection - National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science

National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science

The National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science
Case Collection

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Our Latest Cases
A Deadly Passion: Sexual Cannibalism in the Australian Redback Spider Erin Barley and Joan Sharp, Simon Fraser University Teaching Notes for “A Deadly Passion”	The Australian redback spider engages in a most interesting and extreme behavior: sexual cannibalism. During copulation, a male somersaults and dangles his abdomen in the jaws of a female. The female begins to eat the males’ abdomen while he continues to copulate with her. Typically, the male engages in two rounds of courtship and cannibalism, the second being fatal. This “clicker case” introduces students to the concept of proximate vs. ultimate causes of behavior. They then are asked to consider the causes of sexual cannibalism, first from the female and then from the male perspective. Although developed for a general biology class, this case would also be suitable for use in non-majors introductory biology or behavioral ecology courses.
I Can Quit Anytime I Want: The Biological Basis of Euphoria and Addiction by William D. Rogers, Ball State University Teaching Notes for “I Can Quit Anytime I Want”	This “clicker case” follows Ashley and her boyfriend Sean through his struggle with cocaine addiction. The case discusses the biological basis of the temporary euphoria that may accompany drug use and certain aspects of the biological basis of drug dependency. The case also introduces neurotransmitters and their mechanisms of action at a synapse, with dopamine being discussed as a primary example. The influence cocaine has on dopamine levels is also presented. The case was designed for students with little background in neurobiology.
The Coelacanth: An Odd Fish by Eric Ribbens, Western Illinois University, and Robert H. Grant, Saint Louis University Teaching Notes for “The Coelacanth”	This is a redesign of a case by Robert H. Grant, “A Strange Fish Indeed: The ‘Discovery’ of a Living Fossil,” published by the National Center for case Study Teaching in Science in 2005. The case follows the story of Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer and her discovery of the coelacanth, a fish of considerable evolutionary interest. It uses the story as a springboard to explore evolutionary concepts and the scientific method. It has been reformatted to use clickers, a PowerPoint presentation, and to further emphasize the role of Ms. Courtenay-Latimer. The case is designed for large introductory biology classes that use clickers (personal response systems) to manage and collect student input.
Anatomy & Physiology
A Spill at Parsenn Bowl: Knee Injury and Recovery Elaine S. Chapman, Illinois College Teaching Notes for “A Spill at Parsenn Bowl”	Based on a real incident, this case features an older woman who has been injured on a ski slope. Her classic knee injury, often referred to as the “Terrible Triad of O’Donahue,” is complicated by her age, the altitude (12,000 feet), and possible hypothermia. In a stepwise fashion, students are introduced to the evaluation of the injury, structure of the knee joint, complicating factors, treatment of the injury, rehabilitation, and the patient’s eventual recovery. The topic of the case is often of particular interest to college-aged student-athletes, many of whom have faced a similar injury. Developed for students in the first semester of a two-semester anatomy and physiology course, the case can be used as a focus for small group learning or for class discussion. It could also be adapted for a human biology course.
Facing the Pain: An Interrupted Case Study in Physiology by Ryan D. Doyle, Matthew J. Heslin, Michael B. Keller, and Philip Stephens, Villanova University, Villanova, PA Teaching Notes for “Facing the Pain”	This interrupted case study in cardiovascular and nerve physiology focuses on Lynn, a married woman with a young child whose husband is often away from home traveling on business. Lynn is anxious and short-tempered. She is also overweight and appears frustrated with her life. Recently, she has been feeling intense pain on the right side of her face. One day, she becomes disoriented while driving and crashes into a tree. Students research and analyze a variety of signs, symptoms, and medical data in order to solve the case.
The Case of the Sexually Arrested Orangutans Susan B. Chaplin and Laura J. Baumgartner, University of St. Thomas Teaching Notes for “The Case of the Sexually Arrested Orangutans”	This case examines the hormonal control of the development and maturation to adulthood and the role of stress hormones in that developmental process. The case was adapted from results summarized in Maggioncalda and Sapolsky’s (2002) article in Scientific American and presents evidence for why an unusual adaptation for reproduction in subordinate male primates may have evolved as a means of reducing stress. Students are presented with data from the published studies and asked to analyze and interpret the results to formulate hypotheses. Initially developed for an upper division endocrinology course, the case has been used in an upper division comparative anatomy-physiology course, and could be used in an animal behavior or behavioral ecology course.
Driving Can Be Dangerous to Your Health: An Interrupted Case Study in Physiology Phil Stephens, Villanova University Teaching Notes for “Driving Can Be Dangerous to Your Health”	In this interrupted case study, students read about an older woman named Barbara who becomes ill after driving with her husband 19 hours from Florida to visit their son’s family. Barbara experiences an asthma attack and then more serious breathing problems, which result in her admission to the hospital. Students are presented with a variety of signs, symptoms, and medical data relating to Barbara’s health, which they must interpret to solve this case in circulatory and respiratory physiology.
Take Two and Call Me in the Morning: A Case Study in Cell Structure and Function Peggy Brickman, University of Georgia, Athens, GA Teaching Notes for “Take Two and Call Me in the Morning”	This clicker case begins with a story about a college student who becomes sick. As they set out to identify the cause of the illness, students learn about, and then use, the basic differences between viruses, prokaryotes, and eukaryotes to decide which organism is causing the infection. The case consists of a handout that students partially complete before class as well as an in-class PowerPoint presentation with questions. The case could be used in any introductory biology course or as a review of cell structure in an anatomy and physiology course. Although designed for use with personal response systems (clickers) and PowerPoint, the case can be adapted for use without these technologies.
What’s in My Water Bottle? A Question of Environmental Estrogens Janna R. McLean, Colorado State University—Pueblo Teaching Notes for “What’s in My Water Bottle?”	In this interrupted case study, two students explore evidence suggesting that environmental estrogens leach out of some plastic containers and that these chemicals have a negative impact on the development of mammals. Students analyze data, consider the quality of the data, and then develop their own conclusions based on what is presented. They are also asked to consider their role as future scientists in teaching society about potentially harmful chemicals. This case study could be used in upper-level anatomy and physiology courses or in a developmental biology course.
Uretero What? A Systems-level View of a Pregnancy with Medical Complications Laura Y. Lorentzen, Kean University, and Youssef Kousa, Michigan State University Teaching Notes for “Uretero What?”	This case study follows a woman faced with a series of difficult medical decisions. Students apply systems-level physiology as they explore a pregnancy with medical complications and discuss situations involving life-changing decisions prompted by modern medical technologies. This case could be used in an advanced biology course at the high school level, or in undergraduate courses in general biology, human anatomy and physiology, human health, human sexuality, medical ethics, sociology, or women’s studies. The case study also would be applicable to first-year medical students in a course in medical physiology as well as students in nurse practitioner, midwifery, or physician’s assistant programs.
Keeping up with the Jones’s: A Case Study in Human Physiology Phil Stephens, Villanova University Teaching Notes for “Keeping up with the Jones’s”	This interrupted case study in cardiovascular physiology focuses on Suzie, a self-reliant young woman who is training hard for the upcoming figure skating season. But family dynamics combined with high aspirations of competing in the Olympic Games have negative consequences for her health. Students are presented with a variety of signs, symptoms, and medical data that they are asked to interpret by researching and answering a series of guided questions.
A Case of Iron Deficiency Anemia David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of Iron Deficiency Anemia” A Case of Pharyngitis David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of Pharyngitis” A Case of Thrombocytopenia David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of Thrombocytopenia” A Case of X-linked Agammaglobulinemia David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of X-linked Agammaglobulinemia”	This set of four case studies in anatomy and physiology explores various aspects of the hemolymphatic system. In each we are introduced to a person suffering from a particular disorder or disease. Students read the short case scenario, which provides a brief clinical history of the patient and a description of the relevant signs and symptoms, and then answer a set of directed questions designed to probe the students knowledge of the underlying anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the disease/disorder.
Mary Keeper’s Aching Head Brent J.F. Hill, University of Central Arkansas Teaching Notes for “Mary Keeper’s Aching Head”	In this problem-based learning case, students read about a 41-year-old woman who is suffering from recurring headaches. Working in small groups, the students analyze a variety of information and then formulate a diagnosis. The case was designed for use in the second semester of a two-semester anatomy and physiology class for undergraduates to teach them about the endocrine system.
Why Does Grandpa Ignore Grandma? A Case Study in Hearing Loss Benjamin F. Timson and Scott D. Zimmerman, Missouri State University Teaching Notes for “Why Does Grandpa Ignore Grandma?”	Carla, a first semester graduate student in audiology, has noticed that her grandfather appears to be having trouble hearing what her grandmother says. Other people in the family cant help but notice it too as it becomes a source of increasing aggravation and strife between Carlas grandparents. Students read the case and analyze data in order to understand the nature of Carlas grandfathers problem. The case was developed for a medical physiology course taken by postgraduate students in physical therapy and physician assistant professional programs and graduate students in a cell and molecular biology program. It could also be adapted for use in general education human biology or human aging courses or in a majors undergraduate physiology course.
Chemical Eric: Dealing with the Disintegration of Central Control Eric Ribbens, Western Illinois University Teaching Notes for “Chemical Eric”	This case is designed to teach introductory biology majors about the role of the pituitary in controlling hormones. It presents an actual case of a boy who begins to show the first signs of a pituitary tumor at the age of 11. The case chronicles his symptoms and medical conditions (and crises) through age 45. By examining the effects of pituitary disruption and tracing them back to their hormonal causes, students gain an understanding of the role of the pituitary in controlling a variety of hormones as well as the cascade of effects triggered by high-level pituitary hormones.
A Case of Cerebrovascular Accident David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of Cerebrovascular Accident” A Case of Spinal Cord Injury David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of Spinal Cord Injury” A Case of Neurocardiogenic Syncope David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of Neurocardiogenic Syncope”	This set of three case studies in human anatomy and physiology explores various aspects of the nervous system. In each we are introduced to a person suffering from a particular disorder or disease. Students read the short case scenario, which provides a brief clinical history of the patient and a description of the relevant signs and symptoms of the disease, and then answer a set of directed questions designed to probe the students knowledge of the underlying anatomy, physiology and pathology. For two of the cases, students are also prompted to make a diagnosis based upon the signs, symptoms and clinical tests provided.
The Campus Coffee Shop: Caffeine Conundrums Wendy Heck, North Carolina Central University, Andrea Novicki, Johnson C. Smith University, and Brian Rybarczyk, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill Teaching Notes for “The Campus Coffee Shop”	Since caffeine is a widely used substance, especially by college age students, this case on the effects of caffeine on the human body serves as a real-world connection to many students lives. The case is divided into sections covering background information on caffeine, cell biology and signal transduction, Parkinsons Disease, cardiovascular effects, and addiction/withdrawal. The case was designed so that a section can be used alone or in combination with other sections, as dictated by topic/curriculum needs. It would be appropriate for use in a variety of science and health related courses, including anatomy and physiology, disease related courses, genetics, cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and neuroscience.
Lewis and Clark Reloaded: The 3,041-Mile Bike Trail Mary Rose Grant, Saint Louis University Teaching Notes for “Lewis and Clark Reloaded”	This interrupted case provides students with an opportunity to review normal physiology of organ systems as well as the changes that occur during physical exertion. Through the storyline, students become diagnosticians, using investigative and analytical skills to piece together an understanding of the medical condition of a long-distance cyclist. The pivotal point in the case is learning that seemingly harmless and legally available substances can lead to potentially fatal outcomes affecting organ systems already taxed beyond normal limits. As the case unfolds, students may expand the discussion to include legal and ethical issues of using performance-enhancing drugs in endurance sports.
A Friend in Need Is a Friend Indeed: A Case Study on Human Respiratory Physiology William H. Cliff, Niagara University, and Ann W. Wright, Canisius College Teaching Notes for “A Friend in Need Is a Friend Indeed”	This directed case study was designed to help students strengthen their understanding of the transport of oxygen in the blood through an analysis of the pathophysiology of a common, real-world problem namely, carbon monoxide poisoning. The case was developed for use by undergraduates majoring in biology, nursing, and education who are enrolled in a two-semester course in human anatomy and physiology.
The Tired Swimmer: A Case Study on the Nervous System Allison Russo, Morgan Falk, and Phil Stephens, Villanova University Teaching Notes for “The Tired Swimmer”	Annie is on a college swimming scholarship. Recently she has been feeling tired and her times have been getting slower. She has also noticed that her vision is often blurred. Concerned, she goes to see her doctor over the mid-term break and is referred to a neurologist, who finds that Annie is suffering from something more than just fatigue. This interrupted case study takes students through a series of stages that describe Annies problems and symptoms. Students use their knowledge of nerve and muscle physiology to fit the pieces together and determine what is wrong with Annie.
Taking It on the Chin: A Case Study on the Nervous System Stephanie DeMarco, Caitlyn Woods, and Phil Stephens, Villanova University Teaching Notes for “Taking it on the Chin”	In this interrupted case study, students follow the story of Mr. Gower, who is having a root canal done by his dentist on a beautiful spring day. All goes well, but that night he feels tired and light headed, and the next morning his jaw is stiff and he has no appetite. Over the next several days, his health continues to deteriorate. The case presents information describing Mr. Gower’s problems and symptoms in stages, which the students analyze to determine what is wrong with Mr. Gower.
The Soccer Mom: A Case Study on the Nervous System Jennifer Bolognese, Misti Coronel, Anita Intorre, and Phil Stephens, Villanova University Teaching Notes for “The Soccer Mom”	Phyllis Jackson has fainted on the soccer field. She thinks shes just dehydrated, but her husband is worried. He has noticed that shes been having difficulty concentrating at work and is forgetful at times at home. At his suggestion, Phyllis goes to the doctor, where a series of tests reveal that she is suffering from a neurological disorder. In this interrupted case study, students are presented with Phylliss signs and symptoms, which they must interpret in order to diagnosis her problem.
"It was a hot August afternoon..." Anthony C. Steyermark, University of St. Thomas Teaching Notes for “It was a hot August afternoon...”	A farmer becomes concerned after discovering a number of dead animals on his small farm, including some ducks, several deer, and a coyote, all within a single week. Fearing that someone might be poisoning his land, he calls in a veterinary pathologist to investigate. The case was designed to teach students in an an upper-division comparative anatomy and physiology class about the central nervous system.
A Typical Cold? Brent J.F. Hill, University of Central Arkansas Teaching Notes for “A Typical Cold?”	In this problem-based learning case, a couple who has adopted a three-year-old toddler is concerned about the child’s health, in particular the fact that the boy wheezes when he breathes. Students work in groups to analyze a variety of information and formulate a diagnosis. The case was developed for a two-semester anatomy and physiology class for undergraduates to teach them about cell physiology and tissue anatomy.
The Hot Tub Mystery: The Story of a Very HOT Tub Herbert House, Elon University Teaching Notes for “The Hot Tub Mystery”	Roma and Clint Underhill are relaxing after a stressful day in their hot tub with some wine. But tragedy strikes, and the next morning their lifeless bodies are found in the water by their housekeeper. The paramedics who respond to her frantic 911 call pronounce the couple dead at the scene and call in the police to investigate. Developed for use in a lower-level undergraduate course on human physiology, students work through the various parts of this interrupted case to discover the cause of the Underhills’ deaths, and in the process learn about blood pressure regulation.
Anyone Who Had A Heart: A Case Study in Physiology Phil Stephens, Villanova University Teaching Notes for “Anyone Who Had A Heart”	After undergoing a fertility procedure, a 37-year-old woman and her husband are expecting twins. The delivery goes smoothly, but it soon becomes clear that while the baby boy appears normal, the baby girl has a heart problem and is cyanotic. In this interrupted case study, students are asked to diagnose the problem based on the babies’ signs and symptoms as well as their knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the heart and the changes that occur in the heart after birth.
Sweet Indigestion: A Directed Case Study on Carbohydrates Peggy Brickman, University of Georgia Teaching Notes for “Sweet Indigestion”	These days it seems like everyone is counting carbs. About 24 million Americans report they have cut carbohydrates from their diet, and 44 million more say they may try a low-carb diet in the next two years. But what do people really know about carbohydrates? This directed case study, designed for use in a large enrollment introductory course, teaches students how to recognize carbohydrates in the foods they eat and to differentiate between different classes of carbohydrates. Students learn how the body utilizes carbohydrates and discuss whether or not eliminating them from their diet can be healthful.
A Case of Seasonal Affective Disorder David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of Seasonal Affective Disorder” A Case of a Pheochromocytoma David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of a Pheochromocytoma” A Case of Diabetes Insipidus David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of Diabetes Insipidus”	These three short case studies explore topics in anatomy and physiology. In each we are introduced to a person suffering from a particular disorder or disease. Students read about the symptoms and then answer a set of directed questions designed to teach facts and principles using reference books, textbooks, the Internet, and each other as sources of information.
Its Like Pulling Teeth: A Case Study in Physiology Phil Stephens, Villanova University Teaching Notes for “Its Like Pulling Teeth”	In this interrupted case study, a middle-aged man is having his wisdom teeth surgically removed. He decides to have a general anesthetic, but is unaware of the reaction he will have to halothane. His skeletal muscles go rigid and his body temperature rapidly increases. Students use their knowledge of nerve, synaptic, and muscle function to complete flow diagrams, and consider how each step in the flow diagram could produce maintained muscle contraction.
Split My Brain: A Case Study of Seizure Disorder and Brain Function Julia Omarzu, Loras College Teaching Notes for “Split My Brain”	This case study involves a couple deciding whether or not their son should undergo brain surgery to treat a severe seizure disorder. In examining this dilemma, students apply knowledge of brain anatomy and function. They also learn about brain scanning techniques and discuss the plasticity of the brain. The case was written for an introductory psychology course, but could be adapted for any course that covers brain anatomy, neurological disorders, or rehabilitation therapies.
The Ice Hockey Injury: An Interrupted Case Study Phil Stephens, Villanova University Teaching Notes for “The Ice Hockey Injury”	The high school ice hockey team is playing the last of three games in one day. The game gets rough and Rick, the star player, is slammed against the boards. He is injured and is escorted from the ice. This interrupted case study follows Ricks health as it deteriorates over the next few hours. Students are presented with Ricks symptoms and are expected to use their knowledge of anatomy and physiology to diagnose the problem.
Football Fanaticism: An Integrated Physiology Case Study Dayton J. Ford, St Louis College of Pharmacy Teaching Notes for “Football Fanaticism”	A fight in a college town bar between the football player of one team and a drunken fan of a rival team results in a serious spinal cord injury. Students working in groups read the case and research the questions associated with it, which they then discuss in class. The case was designed to help pharmacy students understand the architecture of the central nervous system, its major motor/sensory tracts, the signs/symptoms of motor and sensory tract lesions, and the treatment of spinal cord injuries.
Woe to That Child: A Case of Cystic Fibrosis Dayton J. Ford, St. Louis College of Pharmacy Teaching Notes for “Woe to That Child”	The Horowitz’s son Alvin has had a chronic cough for almost a week, and he’s wheezing a lot more than they think is normal for a child with a cold, which is what their family pediatrician has told them Alvin has. But the pediatric pulmonologist on duty in the ER tells them their son is suffering from something much more serious than a cold. This case study on cystic fibrosis was developed for second-year pharmacy students to help them tie together elements of cell physiology, osmosis and tonicity, and membrane transport processes.
Bad Fish—General Biology Edition Bad Fish—Anatomy & Physiology Edition Bad Fish—Cell & Molecular Biology Edition James A. Hewlett, Finger Lakes Community College Teaching Notes for “Bad Fish”	The protagonist of this case study, Dr. Westwood, survives an accidental poisoning—not once, but twice. Students read about the incidences, applying what they learn in each part of the case to the later sections, and then design a drug to treat the neurotoxin poisoning described in the story. The General Biology Edition is designed for an introductory biology course. Its basic storyline and core objectives are carried over into an Anatomy & Physiology Edition and a Cell & Molecular Biology Edition, each with its own set of questions.
Eyes Without a Face: Stem Cell Research and Corneal Implants Kari Mergenhagen, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Eyes Without a Face”	Although blind since childhood as the result of an accident, Lucy has never given up hope that one day she might see again. So, when her ophthalmologist tells her about a study being conducted at the University Medical Center that might help her regain some sight, Lucy is eager to sign on. This case explores the use of adult stem cells and amniotic membranes to restore vision after traditional transplants have failed, and is appropriate for students of biology, physiology, and health-related fields.
Wake-Up Call Lisa M. Rubin and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Wake-Up Call”	The main character of this case is Denise, who we first meet in the early morning hours as she wakes up in a cold sweat, gasping for breath. But it’s her husband, Jeremy, who has been diagnosed with heart disease, not her. What’s going on? In this interrupted case study, in which the other main character is Denise’s heart, who we get to know through a series of “interior” monologues, students learn about the risk factors, symptoms, and consequences of a heart attack.
Left Out in the Cold: A Case Study in Thermoregulation Tom Cappaert, Central Michigan University Teaching Notes for “Left Out in the Cold”	While backpacking in the Canadian Rockies, Joel loses his way and finds that his experience hiking and camping in his home state of Florida hasn’t prepared him for springtime weather conditions in this part of the world. This case study allows students to review and integrate physiological responses to cold exposure. It is appropriate for use in upper-level physiology, exercise physiology, and other courses in which integration of physiological systems and clinical outcomes are a primary focus.
Lost in the Desert David Evans, Penn College/PSU Teaching Notes for “Lost in the Desert”	Students learn about the interconnectedness of the body, with a particular focus on the skin as one of the most important homeostatic organ systems, in this case study in which the protagonist sets out on a three-hour drive across the Arizona desert to meet his fiance in California - and never shows up. The case was designed to be used with students in a lower-level anatomy and physiology class who are interested in pursuing careers in nuring, occupational therapy, and other health related fields.
Shark Attack! Herbert House, Elon University Teaching Notes for “Shark Attack!”	This case is based on the real-life incident of a boy whose arm was bitten off by a bull shark while swimming off the coast of Florida in the summer of 2001. After the boy’s arm was retrieved from the shark’s mouth, it was surgically reattached. Studying the arm and reattachment surgery, students learn about regional human anatomy.
It Takes a Lot of Nerve Tangi Mitchell and Cheryl L. Watson, Central Connecticut State University Teaching Notes for “It Takes a Lot of Nerve”	In this two-part case study on the nervous system, students learn about neural pathways. The case scenarios are drawn from real life and require students to explain the physiological mechanisms at work. The first scenario is designed for freshmen level students while the second is for senior biology majors and graduate students.
A Bad Reaction: A Case Study in Immunology James A. Hewlett, Finger Lakes Community College Teaching Notes for “A Bad Reaction”	This case involves the transfer of a peanut allergy to a patient who received a combined kidney and liver transplant from a donor who had died from an allergic reaction to peanuts. In addition to illustrating the various roles of immune cells, the physiology of anaphylaxis, and the function of antibodies in immune physiology, the case explores concepts related to histocompatibilities, organ donation, and organ rejection. The case is appropritae for use in a course in human physiology, a combined course in human anatomy and physiology, or an introductory course in immunology.
Gender: In the Genes or in the Jeans? A Case Study on Sexual Differentiation William J. Hoese, California State University Fullerton, Judith Gibber, Columbia University, and Bonnie Wood, University of Maine Presque Isle Teaching Notes for “Gender: In the Genes or in the Jeans?”	This case explores the biology of human sexual differentiation and its social and ethical ramifications. In working through the case, students learn how scientists use laboratory experiments on animals and “experiments of nature,” or conditions that occur naturally in humans, to help them understand human biology.
Amber’s Secret Lisa M. Rubin and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Amber’s Secret”	This problem-based case focuses on the female menstrual cycle and early stages of pregnancy of an unwed teenager. Working in small groups, students identify the learning issues for each part of the story and research answers to their questions. They are then given more of the case to evaluate. The cycle of analysis, information seeking, and sharing is repeated for each stage of the case. The case can be used in numerous settings including general health, biology, and sociology classes or in more specialized courses such as physiology, endocrinology, nursing, medicine, human development, social services, or counseling.
Brain vs. Spinal Cord: A Directed Case Study in CNS Injury Patrick Field, Kean University, and Tom Cappaert, Central Michigan University Teaching Notes for “Brain vs. Spinal Cord”	In this case, students read about the injuries sustained by a young man hurt in a serious diving accident. To solve the case, they must determine the type of central nervous system injury described using their knowledge of the differences between symptoms and signs of brain and spinal cord injury.
Dem Bones: Forensic Resurrection of a Skeleton Alease Bruce, University of Massachusetts at Lowell Teaching Notes for “Dem Bones”	In this case study, a forensic anthropologist must determine the age and sex as well as look for signs of trauma to a skeleton found in a shallow grave in a state park. Students simulate the actual procedures used in a forensics lab and learn to identify bones, landmarks, and anatomical features associated with sex, age, height, and pathology. The case was developed for use in a freshman-level human anatomy and physiology course. It could also be used in biology, anatomy, and anthropology courses.
The 2000-Meter Row: A Case in Homeostasis Nathan Strong, New Hampshire Technical Institute Teaching Notes for “The 2000-Meter Row”	The physically demanding sport of competitive rowing is the backdrop for this case about homeostatis in which students follow the physiological changes that occur in an athlete competing in a 2000-meter race. The case was developed for use in a second-year anatomy and physiology course. It would also be appropriate in exercise and sports science classes.
“Into Thin Air” A Case Study in Physiology Jennifer Lundmark, California State University, Sacramento Teaching Notes for “Into Thin Air”	As an exhausted climbing expedition ascends a steep cliff, one climber in particular experiences severe difficulty breathing and quickly becomes the focus of this case study in which students are asked to assess the physiological changes that occur at high altitudes.
Anthropology
What Do We Tell the Sheriff? Determining Minimum Numbers of Individuals (MNI) for a Scatter of Human Bones Phoebe R. Stubblefield and Elizabeth A. Scharf, University of North Dakota Teaching Notes for “What Do We Tell the Sheriff?”	In this case study, students explore the issues involved in investigating and reporting on a scatter of skeletal remains to the police: Are these human remains? Does this find involve one or multiple individuals? How and why is data collection and interpretation important in a potential murder scene? The case teaches students about skeletal identification and the quantification of skeletal elements. Students generate NISP (Numbers of Identified Specimens) and MNI (Minimum Numbers of Individuals) values. They are also asked to consider proper professional and ethical behavior as they interpret their findings as well as the ramifications of reporting their findings to the police, reporters, and the public.
Man’s Best Friend? Using Animal Bones to Solve an Archaeological Mystery Elizabeth A. Scharf, University of North Dakota Teaching Notes for “Man’s Best Friend?”	In this case, students learn how archaeology operates as an historical science by collecting and analyzing material evidence to make claims about the past. Assuming the role of zooarchaeologists, they evaluate a hypothetical case in which “Dr. Jasper Eraillure” shocks the world by claiming a canid skull he has found at a Neanderthal site is actually that of a domestic dog. Students analyze modern skulls from wild and domestic canids, and develop a set of criteria for determining whether the “unknown” canid skull belonged to a domestic dog. They further explore the reasons behind the divergence between wild and domestic dog populations, and evaluate the potential impact of Dr. Eraillure’s assertions on our understanding of the past.
Dire Straights? Transsexualism and Gender Stereotypes Frank Monteleone, Houston Community College—Southwest Teaching Notes for “Dire Straights?”	This case study is a fictional account of a romantic interlude wherein a secret as to the gender history of one of the characters is revealed. The case is intended to offer students a greater understanding of gendered culture and to discuss diversity issues. Students are also introduced to the possible scientific basis for “transgenderedness” and ultimately transsexualism. The case was developed for a community college level introductory cultural anthropology class, but could also be used in introductory gender classes or in courses where diversity issues may arise, such as in some sociology classes.
The Case of Desiree’s Baby: The Genetics and Evolution of Human Skin Color Patricia Schneider, Queensborough Community College Teaching Notes for “The Case of Desiree’s Baby”	This case is based on Kate Chopin’s short story “Desiree’s Baby,” a tragic tale of race and gender in antebellum Louisiana first published in 1893. Students read the story and then answer a series of questions about the genetics and evolution of skin color. The case was developed for a general biology course organized around the general theme of evolution. It could also be used in anthropology and biology courses for non-majors.
The Missing Link Elizabeth Strasser, California State University, Sacramento Teaching Notes for “The Missing Link”	The setting for this case study is a paleontological dig in East Africa, where Sam, an American undergraduate student, has unearthed part of what appears to be an ancestral human skull. In the lab, students examine a number of primate skulls and are asked to make up a phylogeny based on their observations.
Of Mammoths and Men: A Case Study in Extinction Nancy A. Schiller, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Of Mammoths and Men”	The recent discovery of a mammoth frozen in the Siberian tundra is the backdrop for this case study, which explores the various theories for the extinction of the great Ice Age mammals and Homo neanderthalensis. Students research evidence for and against the different hypotheses and then discuss in class the merits of each.
The Dating Game: A Case Study in Human Evolution Shoshana Tobias, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Dating Game”	In this role-playing case study, students attempt to determine the identity of a variety of human fossils based on characteristics described during a “quiz show.”
Astronomy
To Boldly Go … Or Not: A Public Hearing Case Study Erik Zavrel, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “To Boldly Go … Or Not”	This fictional public forum case study is centered on the 2004 decision by President George Bush to set NASA’s primary goal as a return to the Moon, followed by a mission to Mars. The members on the expert panel and audience are fictitious but the views they express on the Vision for Space Exploration (VSE) are representative of those articulated by actual advocacy groups, scientists, engineers, space enthusiasts, and lay persons. The case is not simply about public policy, but touches upon the relative merits and deficiencies of manned space exploration and robotic space exploration, the consumer products and industries derived from the space program, the scientific rationale for a return to the Moon as well as what worthwhile space missions may be terminated as a result of the VSE.
The Zarkah Stone: The Park Forest Meteorite Case Teresa M. Schulz, Lansing Community College Teaching Notes for “The Zarkah Stone”	On the night of March 26, 2003, a brilliant fireball exploded and fragmented over south suburban Chicago, hammering houses and sidewalks with meteorites. Many people witnessed the event and collected the precious stones. This is the story about the meteorite that smashed through the roof and into the lives of the Zarkah family. Appropriate for an introductory astronomy or planetary science course, the case explores the physical and chemical characteristics of different types of meteorites as well as their different origins, in addition to the fascination and value they hold for the scientific community and collectors.
Mask of the Black God: The Pleiades in Navajo Cosmology Teresa M. Schulz, Lansing Community College Teaching Notes for “Mask of the Black God”	One Navajo legend attributes the creation of the primary stars and constellations to Black God. Today, a famous star cluster the Pleiades often appears on the traditional mask worn by chanters impersonating Black God during special ceremonies. In this case study, students learn about the Pleiades in Navajo cosmology while honing their observational and star map skills.
A Rose By Any Other Name: The Peculiar Case of Pluto Teresa M. Schulz, Lansing Community College Teaching Notes for “A Rose By Any Other Name”	This dilemma case study, developed for a general astronomy course, provides an introduction to our solar system by highlighting the peculiarities of Pluto. The main character, Dr. Maria Ocasio, is the chair of the Committee on Small Body Nomenclature of the International Astronomical Union (IAU), the organization charged with assigning permanent names to asteroids and comets. Dr. Ocasio, after reviewing the scientific facts and historical background on Pluto, is faced with the dilemma of deciding “What is Pluto” by answering the question What is a planet.
A Googol of Atoms? Stephen J. Shawl, University of Kansas Teaching Notes for “A Googol of Atoms?”	This directed case in estimation and very large numbers was written for a college-level introductory astronomy course although it could also be used in a variety of other courses in chemistry, planetary science, biology, and mathematics.
Atmospheric Science / Meteorology
In the Eye of the Storm: A Case Study in Natural Disasters Rachael A. Lancor, University of Wisconsin—Madison Teaching Notes for “In the Eye of the Storm”	This case study of Hurricane Katrina chronicles a college student’s adventures with the Hurricane Hunters, a group of people from the Air Force Reserve who fly into the middle of hurricanes to collect atmospheric data for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Students learn how to predict the path of the hurricane using satellite images and about physics concepts involved in hurricane formation, such as fluid dynamics and thermodynamics. Students also explore societal issues surrounding natural disasters. This case is intended for an introductory physics course, but has also been used for related courses, such as environmental geology.
Cancel the Cardinals Home Opener?!? Lessons in Melting and Evaporation Patrick S. Market, University of Missouri-Columbia Teaching Notes for “Cancel the Cardinals Home Opener?!?”	The St. Louis Cardinals are scheduled to play their home opener the next day and Megan Riley, a young meterologist who works for a private weather consulting firm, is responsible for developing the weather forecast. It’s starting to look like she may need to change her current forecast for rain to snow as much as one-half foot. Students work in small groups to analyze information presented in each part of this multi-part case and are asked to update their forecast: keep it as rain, or revise it to snow.
Chemistry / Biochemistry
Cooking Under Pressure: Applying the Ideal Gas Law in the Kitchen Ling Chen, Borough of Manhattan Community College, Jennifer Y. Anderson, Brookdale Community College, and Diane R. Wang, Cornell University Teaching Notes for “Cooking Under Pressure”	This case connects chemistry concepts with ordinary people’s lives. It covers several chemistry concepts, such as boiling point, chemical reaction rate, and ideal gas law, in addition to the conservation of energy. Designed for a non-majors’ general chemistry course, the case could be extended to other disciplines, including physics, nutrition, and microbiology.
The Chemistry of Curcumin, the Health Promoting Ingredient in Turmeric Brahmadeo Dewprashad, Borough of Manhattan Community College, The City University of New York Teaching Notes for “The Chemistry of Curcumin”	This case study was developed to engage students by making connections between core concepts in organic chemistry and the health promoting chemical, curcumin, found in turmeric. The case is in the form of a dialogue between a couple about the surprising color change observed in their turmeric-containing soup upon adding baking soda. Concepts taught by the case include keto-enol tautomerization, resonance theory, chelation, and pH dependant hydrolysis and ionization. Developed for a first-semester organic chemistry course, the case could be adapted for use in undergraduate biochemistry and food science courses.
Cats Have Nine Lives, But Only One Liver: The Effects of Acetaminophen Brahmadeo Dewprashad, The City University of New York Teaching Notes for “Cats Have Nine Lives, But Only One Liver”	In this case study, a college student gives her cat half of a Tylenol® tablet not knowing its potential harmful effects. The cat survives, but the incident motivates her to research the reaction mechanism underlying the liver toxicity of acetaminophen, the active ingredient of Tylenol®. The case outlines three possible reaction schemes that would explain why acetaminophen-containing products can be toxic to the liver. Students are required to write a detailed mechanism for each. The case also presents evidence from the literature that supports one of the reaction schemes and eliminates the other two. Students must identify the correct reaction scheme and mechanism based on this evidence. The case can be used in undergraduate organic chemistry, biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, and pharmacology courses.
Ethanol or Biodiesel? A Systems Analysis Decision Thomas R. Stabler and Frank J. Dinan, Canisius College Teaching Notes for “Ethanol or Biodiesel?”	This case study presents two students who have been asked to conduct a “systems analysis” study to determine whether ethanol derived from corn or biodiesel prepared from soybeans is the more energy efficient alternative fuel. The students must investigate the two systems very broadly to determine all energy inputs and outputs. When the corn to ethanol system turns out to be less energy-efficient, the students are asked to consider the political and economic consequences of this observation and the role that science plays in making policy decisions. The case is designed for general chemistry courses and non-science majors’ chemistry courses.
Get the Lead Out! An Interdisciplinary Case Study for Science Students Laurie LeBlanc, Cuyamaca College, Robert Mazalewski, UC Davis, Jonathan Cook, Cuyamaca College, and Jasmine King, Cuyamaca College Teaching Notes for “Get the Lead Out!”	This case study, developed for a general chemistry course, is intended to teach students the interdisciplinary nature of environmental science. Students take on the role of environmental chemists and, using atomic absorption spectroscopy, test for lead contamination in groundwater samples taken from an old mining district in Lake County, Colorado. After researching remediation methods, students propose practical solutions to local soil contamination.
Gas Cylinders and Safety: A Case Study in Chemistry Melinda Box, Wake Technical Community College Teaching Notes for “Gas Cylinders and Safety”	This case study, developed for an introductory chemistry course as part of a two-year dental hygiene curriculum, teaches students how to apply gas properties and gas storage identification systems to identify a mishandled or mislabeled gas cylinder.
Kermit to Kermette? Does the Herbicide Atrazine Feminize Male Frogs? Frank J. Dinan, Canisius College Teaching Notes for “Kermit to Kermette?”	This case study explores the unintended side effects of chemicals introduced into the environment, specifically organic compounds that can act as environmental estrogens, i.e., chemical castration agents that can interfere with the sexual development of embryonic males. The case was developed for a non-majors chemistry course and focuses on the science that underlies the controversy surrounding the sale of the herbicide atrazine in the U.S., together with the political and economic issues that impact this science.
Burning Down the House: A Case Study in Forensic Instrumental Analysis Adam M. Boyd and Randolph K. Larsen III, St. Marys College of Maryland Teaching Notes for “Burning Down the House”	In this lab-based case, arson investigator Marie Stanforth comes under suspicion when her ex-husband dies in a fire. Students read the case and then, in the role of forensic chemists working for the FBI, analyze charred samples recovered from the crime scene as well as a clothing swatch taken from the principal suspect, comparing what they find in the samples to accelerant standards whose spectra are already known. Once they have determined whether or not the fire was arson, they must then determine if the allegations against Marie are credible. This case study was designed for an instrumental methods course, but could also be adapted for a non-science major course.
Biological Terrorism: The Anthrax Scare of 2001 Kathleen A. Cornely, Providence College Teaching Notes for “Biological Terrorism”	In the weeks following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, anthrax-laced envelopes were mailed to individuals in government and the news media by an as-yet-unidentified bioterrorist. Thousands were treated for exposure, and five people were killed. At the same time, scientists solved the last remaining pieces of the anthrax puzzle, and the mechanism of infection of the anthrax toxin is now well understood. Developed for a second-semester biochemistry course, this case presents students with a wealth of biochemical, microbiological, and immunological material to analyze while exploring important societal issues related to national preparedness against bioterrorist attacks, funding for biodefense research, and the use and misuse of antibiotic therapy.
A Can of Bull? Do Energy Drinks Really Provide a Source of Energy? Merle Heidemann and Gerald Urquhart, Michigan State University Teaching Notes for “A Can of Bull?”	This case study, which is based on a biochemical analysis of the components of energy drinks, is designed for students at various levels to learn about large biomolecules, nutrition, and product analysis. Students are asked to analyze several popular energy drinks on the market, which many students purchase at fairly high prices, and determine whether these products nutritionally match their marketing claims. The case can be used as a review of basic biochemistry and nutrition for upper level students in physiology, biochemistry, or nutrition courses, or to introduce this information in introductory level courses in these disciplines.
PCBs in the Last Frontier: A Case Study on the Scientific Method Michael Tessmer, Southwestern College Teaching Notes for “PCBs in the Last Frontier”	This interrupted case study is based on current research involving the global transport of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Students are asked to propose several hypotheses and experiments in an attempt to determine how PCBs are transferred globally. As the case unfolds, it becomes clear that the transport mechanism is more complicated than scientists first thought. The case requires minimal background knowledge and is suitable for both major and non-major courses in biology, chemistry, and environmental science.
An Adventure in Stereochemistry: Alice in Mirror Image Land Frank J. Dinan, Canisius College, and Gordon T. Yee, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Teaching Notes for “An Adventure in Stereochemistry”	This case study is based on an article that considered the problems that would arise if a person were to cross over into a mirror-image environment. Some of the stereochemistry problems posed in the original article are woven into this tale of a drowsy undergraduate studying for an exam in organic chemistry who finds herself in a place where spearmint gum tastes like caraway seed.
Accidental Drowning or Foul Play? Monika Konaklieva, American University Teaching Notes for “Accidental Drowning or Foul Play?”	This case was developed for use in the first semester of a sophomore organic chemistry laboratory to illustrate how a combination of techniques is usually required in the identification of chemical compounds. It involves a murder mystery with a forensic twist. Students are told that two bodies have recently been recovered from two different lakes. Due to a mix-up at the morgue, the coroners office is unable to determine which body came from which lake. The students task is to develop a methodology to solve this mystery as well as determine whether the deaths were the result of murder or mishap.
The Case of the Tainted Taco Shells - General Edition The Case of the Tainted Taco Shells - Advanced Edition Ann Taylor, Wabash College Teaching Notes for “The Case of the ‘Tainted’ Taco Shells”	This case discusses some of the issues associated with the use of genetically modified plants, including ecological risks, resistance, and allergenicity. The General Edition emphasizes the basic biochemistry and scientific ethics issues associated with genetically modified foods. The Advanced Edition probes the same issues but includes more advanced questions regarding the biochemistry of how genetically modified plants work.
Bilirubin: E-/Z-, But Not Easy Frank J. Dinan, Canisius College Teaching Notes for “Bilirubin: E-/Z-, But Not Easy”	In this case, two students meet a professor who surprises them by telling them that a biochemically important molecule’s structure has been incorrectly represented in the published literature - in an article in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, a major biochemistry textbook, and even The Merck Index. The students are challenged to find the nature of the structural errors and correct them. In addition to demonstrating that the technical literature is not without its flaws, the case reviews important concepts related to geometric isomerism and tautomerism.
A Rigorous Investigation Claudia Bode, University of Kansas, and Allison Jablonski, Lynchburg College Teaching Notes for “A Rigorous Investigation”	In this case study, students investigate the cause of death in an incident that occurs late at night in a research lab. The goal of this directed case study is to make the abstract concepts involved in cellular respiration more accessible to students. Developed for an introductory biology class, the case could easily be adapted for a more advanced biochemistry class.
Thiamin Deficiency: A Directed Case Study Preeti Dhar, SUNY New Paltz Teaching Notes for “Thiamin Deficiency”	In this directed case study developed for a biochemistry class, students read about the differences in the dietary preferences and practices for preparing and consuming rice among the three major communities of Malaysia—the local Malays and the immigrant Tamils and Chinese—and then answer a series of close-ended questions about the causes and consequences of thiamin deficiency.
The Chemistry of Cooley’s Anemia Christopher T. Bailey, Wells College, and Mohammad Mahroof-Tahir, St. Cloud State University Teaching Notes for “The Chemistry of Cooley’s Anemia”	In this case, two young parents learn that their child is suffering from the genetic disorder thalassemia. Treatment requires a lifetime commitment to whole blood transfusion and chelation therapy, both of which must be administered on a daily to weekly basis. Students read the case, answer a series of questions, and then decide how they would treat the child if they were the parents. The case was developed to introduce students to the role of metal ions and coordination chemistry in biological systems, and would be appropriate for courses in biochemistry, molecular biology, bioinorganic chemistry, and bioethics, among others.
Thinking Inside the Box Christopher T. Bailey, Wells College Teaching Notes for “Thinking Inside the Box”	In this particular take on the classic “Black Box Experiment,” students working in groups are given sealed boxes containing objects that they must make indirect observations about and then report their observations to the class in a simulated conference setting. An effective lead-in exercise to a discussion of the scientific method, it can also be used in a general chemistry course to teach students about atomic structure and how experimental evidence can be used to infer structure.
As Light Meets Matter—Art Under Scrutiny Eleonora Del Federico, Pratt Institute, Steven Diver, University at Buffalo, Monika Konaklieva, American University, and Richard Ludescher, Rutgers University Teaching Notes for “As Light Meets Matter”	In this dilemma case, the central character, a museum curator, must decide whether or not to show a painting as a hitherto “undiscovered” Cezanne. The stylistic analysis suggests it is for real, but data obtained using different spectroscopic techniques is inconclusive. Students study the data and then make a decision as to whether they believe the painting is authentic or a fake. Written for a general chemistry course for non-majors, the case could be used in a variety of other courses including general chemistry for science majors, introduction to spectroscopy, instrumental analysis, and conservation science. It could also be adapted for use in other non-majors science courses, with the focus of discussion on how scientific data can be used to authenticate or de-authenticate a work of art.
The Van Deemter Equation: A Three-Act Play Christa Colyer, Wake Forest University Teaching Notes for “The Van Deemter Equation”	This three-act play, developed for a upper-level undergraduate instrumental analysis course, actively engages students in an understanding of the abstract, and for many students, difficult to grasp concepts of the van Deemter equation, important in the field of chemical separations. Students play the roles of stationary and mobile phases and solute molecules and are asked to consider a series of questions that explore the reasons for their actions.
Is a Mars Sample Return Mission Too Risky? Troy D. Wood, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Is a Mars Sample Return Mission Too Risky”	Following a public hearing format, this case study allows students to explore the scientific and public policy issues surrounding the advisability of a return mission to Mars for further sampling and, more generally, the question of whether or not there is life on that planet. The case was developed for a non-science majors course called “Great Discoveries in Science” and serves to illustrate the scientific method and the importance of interdisciplinary efforts in scientific research.
To Spray or Not to Spray: A Debate Over Malaria and DDT Frank J. Dinan and Joseph F. Bieron, Canisius College Teaching Notes for “To Spray or Not To Spray”	In this case study, students grapple with the complex issues surrounding the use of DDT to control malaria. In their examination of the issue, students consider risk/benefit analysis and the precautionary principle, two techniques used when making policy decisions involving the impact of science and technology on society.
Filthy Lucre: A Case Study Involving the Chemical Detection of Cocaine-Contaminated Currency Ed Acheson, Millikin University Teaching Notes for “Filthy Lucre”	This case uses a lawsuit involving the contamination of paper currency with cocaine to introduce students to experimental design, sampling, and the interpretation of scientific data. The case includes lab work involving the use of GC/MS techniques and instrumentation.
Should Bill Buy “Sammy”? A Case Study Introducing Basic Chemistry Concepts Jessie W. Klein, Middlesex Community College Teaching Notes for “Should Bill Buy ‘Sammy’?”	Students are shown the relevance of chemistry in daily decision-making by taking a look at the popular dietary supplement, s-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), which is widely used in Europe for depression, arthritis, and liver disease and is now available in the United States.
Baffled by the Baby Bottle: A Case Study in Chemistry Michael A. Jeannot, St. Cloud State University Teaching Notes for “Baffled by the Baby Bottle”	This dilemma case uses an article about the safety of polycarbonate baby bottles to develop critical thinking and reasoning skills and acquaint students with the fundamentals of polymer chemistry.
Avogadro Goes to Court Joseph F. Bieron and Frank J. Dinan, Canisius College Teaching Notes for “Avogadro Goes to Court”	This case study was inspired by a successful lawsuit brought by students against a professor at Pace University who had assigned them the task of calculating the cost of a single aluminum atom in a roll of aluminum foil. The case deals with the concepts of Avogadro’s number and the mole, and so would be relevant to nearly all introductory level science courses.
The Benign Hamburger Graham Peaslee, Hope College, Juliette Lantz, Siena College, and Mary M. Walczak, St. Olaf College Teaching Notes for “The Benign Hamburger”	In this dilemma case study, in which a restaurant chain must decide whether to use irradiated beef to protect its customers from E. coli, students are introduced to nuclear applications aside from those involving nuclear power generation and weapons.
Alien Evolution: The Return of the Cambrian Explosion Shoshana Tobias, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Alien Evolution”	In this case, which combines problem-based learning and role-playing, students research the environmental conditions of the Cambrian period and the types of organisms that developed during that time as they speculate about possible cases for the “Cambrian Explosion."
The Petition: A Global Warming Case Study Bruce Allen and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Petition”	The goal of this dilemma case study is to teach students about the various aspects of global warming. Students read graphs and interpret data, and consider the political, economic, and ethical issues surrounding the controversy.
Computer Science
The “Living” Room: A Case Study in Artificial Intelligence, Collaborative Systems, and Language Understanding Stephanie E. August, Loyola Marymount University Los Angeles Teaching Notes for “The ‘Living’ Room”	This case study analyzes the reasoning processes and types of information that we need to embed in collaborative software systems in order for these systems to demonstrate intelligent behavior and allow us to interact with them in a natural way. The central character of the case, Kate, is a college student who lives in an “intelligent” dorm room that converses with her as a friend would. Developed to introduce the ideas of collaboration and natural language understanding in an upper-division course in artificial intelligence, the case can be adapted for non-technical audiences for use in developing critical thinking skills.
March 7, 2017: The Day the Microprocessors Died Sohum Sohoni, Oklahoma State University, and Matt Reiten, GMA Industries, Inc. Teaching Notes for “March 7, 2017”	Originally designed for a junior level introductory course for computer engineering students, this icebreaker case study illustrates our increasing reliance on technology, particularly highlighting the importance and ubiquity of microprocessors. The discussion involves a number of new technologies and lays the groundwork for future discussions on good system design and integration of secure processors for embedded systems. The story describes a failure of a central system (much like the Internet of today) that occurs in the future, with some degree of mystery as to the cause.
A Walk Through Mike’s Code: A Case Study in Software Technical Reviews David R. Luginbuhl, Western Carolina University Teaching Notes for “A Walk Through Mike’s Code”	This case introduces the concept of a software review. The central character, a programmer named Mike, thinks he—and not his code—is the focus of the review. The lead reviewers, Beverly and Paul, are programmers responsible for developing other parts of the program, and it quickly becomes apparent that there are professional and personal issues at play. Developed for an upper division software engineering course, the case reinforces the idea that software engineering is about teamwork while teaching students about unit-level software verification and validation.
To Test or Not to Test the Software: A Case Study on Ethics in Computing Junaid Ahmed Zubairi, SUNY at Fredonia Teaching Notes for “To Test ot Not to Test the Software”	In 1991 faulty computer instructions caused a massive shutdown of phone systems in several major cities in the U.S. including Washington DC, Pittsburgh, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. The instructions were part of a revised version of software that was not tested fully because the changes were considered too small. Developed as part of the ethics module for a computer science course for non-majors, this case emphasizes good software development techniques including full compliance with the rules.
Ecology / Environment
Mystery in Alaska: Why Have All the Sea Lions Gone? Frank J. Dinan, Thomas R. Stabler, and Renee A. Larson, Canisius College Teaching Notes for “Mystery in Alaska”	This interrupted case study highlights the importance of energy considerations within food chains by examining the population decline of Steller sea lions along the western Alaskan coast. A ban on commercial fishing of pollock in the 1970s caused a shift in the availability of the sea lions’ prey. Sea lions have an overall negative net energy balance when consuming pollock, but an overall positive net energy balance when consuming the fattier, easier to catch and digest herring. Could an increase in pollock and a decrease in herring be responsible for sea lion decline? Originally designed for an environmental science course, the case could easily be adapted for an introductory level chemistry or biology course by stressing quantitative, energy balance aspects.
Making It Fit: Using Excel to Analyze Biological Systems by Robert Leaf and Brian Murphy, Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences Department, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Teaching Notes for “Making It Fit”	In this case, students read about a biologist who needs to determine how to analyze age-at-length data, a common situation in fisheries biology. The fictional Dr. Latimer is tasked with fitting non-linear models to the data, and the case develops as he draws parallels between linear and non-linear models. After learning the terminology and concepts through a series of exercises, students use Excel’s built-in Solver algorithm to fit models to the data. Intended for use in a fisheries biology, ecology, or management class, the case is targeted to junior and senior level undergraduate students who have some experience using spreadsheets on microcomputers and some knowledge of ichthyology.
The Great Patagonia Land Grab: A Case Study on International Biodiversity, Conservation and Environmental Politics Courtney Quinn and John Quinn, University of Nebraska—Lincoln Teaching Notes for “The Great Patagonia Land Grab”	This PowerPoint-driven case study (~2.4 MB) was developed for an undergraduate, non-majors course in conservation biology. The case explores the controversy surrounding land purchases in the Patagonia region of Chile and Argentina. According to local indigenous peoples, wealthy individuals are purchasing their ancestral land and then forcing them to leave. Individual landowners and international environmental groups wish to preserve the pristine ecosystems that remain in Patagonia. This case serves as an introduction to stakeholder controversy, the international dimensions of environmental policy, public versus private ownership for environmental protection, and conflict resolution.
Rated MPG for Confusion: Using Gas Mileage to Learn Graphing and Data Analysis Skills by Claudia Bode, University of Kansas, Alan Gleue, Lawrence High School, and Carolyn Pearson, Bonner Springs High School Teaching Notes for “Rated MPG for Confusion”	This case study follows a family’s dilemma about how to save money on gasoline. Should they keep their SUV and trade in their Corolla for a hybrid sedan? Going from 28 (Corolla) to 48 (Hybrid) miles per gallon (mpg) should really save money on gas. That’s a change of 20 mpg! Or, should they keep their Corolla and trade in their SUV for a minivan? The SUV gets about 13 mpg and the Minivan gets 17 mpg (a 4 mpg improvement). As they work through the case, students learn how to analyze fuel efficiency in terms of “gallons per miles” driven instead of miles per gallon (MPG), and gain graphing and data analysis skills. An extension activity also relates fuel efficiency to green house gas emissions.
The Wealth of Water: The Value of an Essential Resource by Melanie K. Rathburn and Karina J. Baum, Boston University Teaching Notes for “The Wealth of Water”	Many students take water availability for granted. This case study is designed to encourage students to think about water as a limited natural resource. The story begins as two college students travel to Bolivia and learn about the Cochabamba water revolt. The case teaches students about the limited nature of freshwater and the impact that access to clean water has on all socioeconomic demographics. By critically evaluating opposing views on water privatization and calculating and analyzing current data related to water consumption, students realize the role they can play in solving the water crisis. Designed for a non-majors course in global ecology, the case could also be used in other non-majors as well as majors courses in biology, environmental science, environmental policy, ethics, and international relations, among others.
The Dead Zone: Ecology and Oceanography in the Gulf of Mexico Kathleen Archer, Trinity College, and Lauren Sahl, Maine Maritime Academy Teaching Notes for “The Dead Zone”	This interrupted case study focuses on the seasonal hypoxic area in the Gulf of Mexico known as the Dead Zone. It follows Sue, a college student, whose father is a commercial fisherman affected by the summertime lack of fish in his usual fishing grounds. In her quest to determine why the fish disappear, Sue learns about both the biological and physical forces that produce, maintain, and eventually dissipate the hypoxic zone. Students are introduced to the marine food web, the aquatic microbial loop, the impact of exogenous nutrients, and the physical forces that effect oxygen content and water stratification. The case could be used in introductory biology or ecology courses or in an oceanography course.
Counting Sheep: Bighorn Sheep and Mountain Lions in the American West Elizabeth Clark, Washington University in St. Louis Teaching Notes for “Counting Sheep”	In this case study, students hear arguments on opposing sides of a debate over wildlife management and must integrate ethical and scientific perspectives to formulate their own opinions. Students are often accustomed to hearing about conflicts between human and environmental interests, but this case introduces a new kind of conflict. Here the conflict is between an endangered species and its charismatic predator: the bighorn sheep and the mountain lion. The case focuses on the scientific rationale for biodiversity conservation and the wildlife management techniques used to achieve it.
Fish as Fertilizer: The Impacts of Salmon on Coastal Ecosystems Mark L. Kuhlmann, Hartwick College Teaching Notes for “Fish as Fertilizer”	In this case study, students examine data from a number of published studies of the effects of Pacific salmon on freshwater and riparian ecosystems. The case focuses on the interesting phenomenon of spawning salmon acting as nutrient conveyor belts, transporting nutrients from the ocean upstream into freshwater spawning areas and, in some cases, even onto land, reversing the more-typical downstream movement of nutrients. As students work at analyzing and interpreting graphical data, they will also increase their understanding of the principles of biogeochemical cycling and gain an appreciation for the interconnectedness of different types of ecosystems.
AH-CHOO! A Case Study on Climate Change and Allergies Juanita Constible, Miami University, Luke Sandro, Springboro High School, Richard E. Lee, Jr., Miami University Teaching Notes for “AH-CHOO!”	As the carbon dioxide concentration of our atmosphere increases and our climate warms, the hay fever season seems to be getting longer and more severe. In this case study, students assume the roles of public relations specialists contracted to communicate the link between climate change and pollen allergies. The activity focuses on the importance of scientific skills to careers outside science, and is most suitable for a lower-level introductory biology or human health course.
The Klamath Basin Water Crisis: Water Supply and Demand MeghanMarie Fowler-Finn, Washington University in St. Louis Teaching Notes for “The Klamath Basin Water Crisis”	In this case study, students examine global water shortage problems in the context of the current Klamath Basin water crisis. Two main perspectives are addressed, agriculture and the environment, along with multiple other perspectives including Native Americans, hydroelectric dams, and the fishing industry. Students learn about and discuss competing interests for water and are asked to analyze and critique scientific data, maps, and graphs. This case study was developed for a social-sciences-track environmental studies course. It could be used in an environmental science, ethics, or policy course as well as water management or agriculture classes.
Sealing the Deal: The Grey Seal Problem in the U.S. Northeast Matthew S. Kaufman, Washington University in St. Louis Teaching Notes for “Sealing the Deal”	This case study uses a PowerPoint-driven approach combined with role-playing to explore the issues surrounding the grey seal population off the coast of New England, specifically Chatham, Massachusetts. After gathering information, the students take the part of Chatham City council members and are asked to make a recommendation to Senator Jack Kenny (a fictional individual) on how to amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972. Originally developed for a course in biodiversity conservation, the case could also be used in introductory ecology, environmental management, and environmental ethics courses.
Disappearing Marine Iguanas: A Case of Population Collapse Conrad Toepfer, Brescia University Teaching Notes for “Disappearing Marine Iguanas”	In this interrupted case study students apply the scientific method to probe possible reasons behind declining marine iguana populations in the Galápagos Islands. Initially students are given rudimentary information and encouraged to generate wide-ranging hypotheses. Students are then given further information to help them refine their initial hypotheses into single, testable statements. As the case progresses, students shift to an examination of experimental methods and data interpretation. Over the course of the case, they utilize both inductive and deductive reasoning in developing their conclusions about the factors influencing marine iguana populations.
The Case of the Ivory-Billed Woodpecker: The Scientific Process and How It Relates to Everyday Life Kathrin Stanger-Hall, University of Georgia at Athens, Jennifer Merriam, SUNY Orange, and Ruth Ann Greuling, Northern New Mexico College Teaching Notes for “The Case of the Ivory-Billed Woodpecker”	Based on the disputed rediscovery of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker in April 2005, this interrupted case study tells the story of Brad Murky, a student and research assistant who must decide whether the current evidence is sufficient for him to accept the bird’s existence. Brad and his sister debate the issue through a series of emails leaving him to wonder whether the press conference to announce the rediscovery of the bird was scheduled in haste. Designed for an introductory biology course, this case would also work well in an ecology, environmental science, ornithology or science and society course.
The Art of a Deal: A Kyoto Protocol Simulation Richard Cowlishaw, Southwestern College, Charles Hunter, Southwestern College, Jason Coy, College of Charleston, and Michael Tessmer, Southwestern College Teaching Notes for “The Art of a Deal”	This case is a classroom simulation of the types of negotiations that went into the Kyoto Protocol agreement on limiting global greenhouse gas emissions. It was developed for an environmental science course for first-year college students with minimal science backgrounds. Groups of students represent various developed and developing countries as they negotiate an agreement to limit greenhouse gas emissions. One of the main objectives is to show that a global problem requires a global solution, but this can be difficult when confounded by national interests. This objective makes the case potentially appropriate for other courses that deal with conflict resolution such as public policy courses, international relations, and certain business courses.
Ecotourism: Who Benefits? Linda Markowitz and Cathy Santanello, Southern IL University Edwardsville Teaching Notes for “Ecotourism”	In this interrupted case, students assess ecotourism in Costa Rica by considering the viewpoints of a displaced land owner, banana plantation worker, environmentalist, state official, U.S. trade representative, and national park employee. Working in small groups, students evaluate the scenario and develop a strategy that can provide balance between the protagonists of the case and the delicate ecosystem. The case was developed for a study abroad course in Costa Rica but could be applied to traditional courses in sociology, international business, political science, bioethics, or public administration and policy analysis.
On a Wing and a Prayer: A Wetland Mitigation Dilemma Susan M. Galatowitsch and Barbara A. Peichel, University of Minnesota Teaching Notes for “On a Wing and a Prayer”	The essential elements of this dilemma case are based on a real mitigation problem. A biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has to decide whether to improve a wetland adversely impacted by toxins or restore another site instead. He is relying on the collective judgment of an interagency team. Working in small groups, students weigh the potential risks and opportunities of each site, and make a decision as to which has the better chance to succeed at mitigating the damage. The case was developed for advanced courses in restoration ecology, conservation biology, and wetland ecology, but also works well in an introductory environmental science course.
Marketing Mostly Intangible Goods: The Case of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta Jorge A. Santiago-Blay, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution Teaching Notes for “Marketing Mostly Intangible Goods”	This case study illustrates some of the common social and economic problems facing botanical gardens and arboreta today. The case describes a conversation between Angie and Suzie, two long-time staff members at an unnamed botanical garden. The women are discussing the economic difficulties the garden is experiencing. Like so many others, this botanical garden has been losing funds. Students read the case and in small groups discuss the value of botanical gardens and arboreta as well as their mission and operation. They then prepare an oral presentation as well as a written outline of a grant proposal seeking economic support for a botanical garden or arboretum of their choosing.
Kermit to Kermette? Does the Herbicide Atrazine Feminize Male Frogs? Frank J. Dinan, Canisius College Teaching Notes for “Kermit to Kermette?”	This case study explores the unintended side effects of chemicals introduced into the environment, specifically organic compounds that can act as environmental estrogens, i.e., chemical castration agents that can interfere with the sexual development of embryonic males. The case was developed for a non-majors chemistry course and focuses on the science that underlies the controversy surrounding the sale of the herbicide atrazine in the U.S., together with the political and economic issues that impact this science.
Can Suminoe Oysters Save Chesapeake Bay? Valerie Nieman, North Carolina A&T State University, and Zhi-Jun Liu, University of North Carolina–Greensboro Teaching Notes for “Can Suminoe Oysters Save Chesapeake Bay?”	This dilemma case explores the controversy associated with introducing non-native oysters to the Chesapeake Bay as a means of improving its ecological and economic health. Developed for use in an interdisciplinary doctoral program in Energy and Environmental Studies, it could be adapted for undergraduate courses ranging from ecology to biology to political science to geography. The case introduces students to the various stakeholders and their positions from the point of view of a senator who must cast the deciding vote on whether or not to introduce Suminoe oysters (Crassostrea ariakensis) into the bay. Students read the case, then work in small groups to develop a stakeholder position, which they later role-play in class in a simulated public hearing.
Living Downstream: Atrazine and Coliform Bacteria Effects on Water Quality—A Debate Case Thomas A. Davis, Loras College Teaching Notes for “Living Downstream”	In this case, developed for a course in Issues in Environmental Biology, students learn that water samples collected from a local river show elevated levels of fecal bacteria and atrazine, one of the most commonly used herbicides in the U.S. The river flows through a farm. A hearing has been called by the county to investigate the cause of the contamination, its possible effects on aquatic life in the river, and what can be done to prevent a recurrence. In the ensuing debate, students must analyze and interpret data as they present the viewpoints of various stakeholders, ranging from the landowners right to apply atrazine to control weeds to the responsibility of fisheries biologists and water quality specialists to protect the environment.
Oak Clearcutting: To Cut or Not to Cut? A Debate Case Thomas A. Davis, Loras College Teaching Notes for “Oak Clearcutting”	The topic of this debate case, developed for a course in “Issues in Environmental Biology,” is clearcutting, a controversial method of harvesting and regenerating trees in which all trees are cleared from a site. Students debate the issue, assuming the roles of various stakeholders including landowners, loggers, state foresters, soil conservation specialists, deer control specialists, and tree farm owners. After the debate, each student in the class must write an opinion paper on whether to clearcut or not and give reasons that support their decision.
But It’s Just a Bottle of Water... Lindsey May, Jessica Kotke, and Charles R. Bomar, University of Wisconsin–Stout Teaching Notes for “But It’s Just a Bottle of Water...”	Designed for an introductory non-majors environmental science course, this case explores the environmental effects associated with the production, consumption, and recycling of bottled water. In addition, students learn about state and federal regulations associated with the extraction of ground water and its potential impact on the environment, identify potential safety hazards with drinking water, both chemical and biological; become aware of the mosaic of state recycling laws that exist and how states circumvent the recycling process; and examine the economic and ecological costs of drinking bottled water.
Rising Temperatures, Differing Viewpoints: A Case Study on the Politics of Information Christopher Hollister, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Rising Temperatures, Differing Viewpoints”	In this case students work in small groups to analyze and critically evaluate the often political nature of news stories. The case was developed from two newspaper articles published in different newspapers New York Times and Wall Street Journal about the release of an Environmental Protection Agency report on the state of the environment. While the New York Times article discusses White House editing of the report, which eliminated several references to the causes and dangers of global warming, the Wall Street Journal article focuses more on the reports evidence of environmental improvements. The case was developed for an undergraduate information literacy course. Its subject matter also makes it suitable for use in undergraduate level courses in environmental studies, journalism, or political science.
Pesticides: Can We Do Without Them? Laurie A. Parendes, Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, and Scott H. Burris, University of Missouri–Columbia Teaching Notes for “Pesticides”	By simulating a public hearing, this case study requires that students sift through and organize information on pesticide use presented to them from the perspective of different stakeholders. The case asks a fundamental question Can we do without pesticides? and gives students an opportunity to explore the ecological, ethical, economic, social, and political issues surrounding that question. Developed for an environmental issues course, the case would be appropriate for any introductory course that addresses human-environment interactions.
PCBs in the Last Frontier: A Case Study on the Scientific Method Michael Tessmer, Southwestern College Teaching Notes for “PCBs in the Last Frontier”	This interrupted case study is based on current research involving the global transport of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Students are asked to propose several hypotheses and experiments in an attempt to determine how PCBs are transferred globally. As the case unfolds, it becomes clear that the transport mechanism is more complicated than scientists first thought. The case requires minimal background knowledge and is suitable for major and non-major courses in biology, chemistry, and environmental science.
On a Clear Day You Can See Forever David W. Kelley, University of St. Thomas, and Rebecca Helgesen, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Teaching Notes for “On a Clear Day You Can See Forever”	In this case, developed for an introductory environmental studies course, students grapple with the issue of air pollution, specifically the causes and effects of haze and smog as ubiquitous, persistent air quality problems that plague urban and rural areas alike. In analyzing local conditions in Minnesota, students explore the wider environmental, political, social, and human health implications of air pollution.
My Brother’s Keeper: A Case Study in Evolutionary Biology and Animal Behavior Kari Benson, Lynchburg College Teaching Notes for “My Brother’s Keeper”	In this interrupted case, students work in teams to interpret behavioral data with respect to evolutionary biology, specifically the behavior of alarm calling in a certain type of ground squirrel, which was first reported by Paul Sherman in Science in 1977. The case is appropriate for use in animal behavior, ecology, evolutionary biology, or introductory biology courses.
*Is Guaiacum sanctum* Effective Against Arthritis? An Ethnobotany Case** Eric Ribbens, Barbra Burdett, and Angela Green, Western Illinois University Teaching Notes for “Is Guaiacum sanctum Effective”	Dr. Beth Tonoany, a tropical population ecologist, is studying an unusual tree, Guaiacum sanctum, in the tropical forests of Central America. Interestingly, several local Ticos have told her that they use the tree for medicinal purposes. Students read the case and then answer questions designed to explore the process of screening and testing the medicinal value of plants identified as having potential health benefits.
The Fish Kill Mystery Erica F. Kosal, North Carolina Wesleyan College Teaching Notes for “The Fish Kill Mystery”	In this case, students speculate on what may have caused a major fish kill in an estuary in North Carolina. In the process they explore how land runoff and excess nutrients affect aquatic communities and learn about the complex life cycle of the dinoflagellate Pfiesteria. The case is appropriate for an introductory environmental science course, a general biology course that covers ecology, or a general zoology course.
Cancer Cure or Conservation Pauline A. Lizotte, Valencia Community College, and Gretchen E. Knapp, Illinois State University Teaching Notes for “Cancer Cure or Conservation”	This case is based on the controversies surrounding harvesting of the Pacific yew from 1989 to 1997 to develop paclitaxel (Taxol), a revolutionary anti-cancer drug. The case was designed to expose students to basic conservation biology concepts by examining competing needs among scientists and other stakeholders in a real-life science-and-society scenario. Developed for a undergraduate introductory biology course for non-majors, the case could also be used in an environmental science course or in a course on the impact of science and technology on society.
First in Flight, Last in Wetlands Preservation? John Petersen and Nancy London, Oberlin College Teaching Notes for “First in Flight, Last in Wetlands Preservation?”	Developed for an introductory environmental studies course, this case study explores the ecological, economic, and legislative issues associated with land development and wetland loss. Students role-play the points of view of four different stakeholders and then write a report that provides specific recommendations for the mayor of a city considering an expansion of the metropolitan airport that will result in the loss of wetlands.
Improving on Nature? Dennis Kingery, Metropolitan Community College Teaching Notes for “Improving on Nature?”	In 1958, black bass were introduced into Lake Atitlan in the highlands of western Guatemala as a way to attract tourism and boost the local economy, but unforeseen complications resulted in an ecological disaster. Developed for an introductory course in biology, this case study first casts students in the role of the local population at that time and asks them to judge the proposal to introduce the new species of fish. The students then review the ensuing events from a historical perspective based on additional information they receive from the instructor in a progressive disclosure format.
Rabbit Calicivirus Disease: Magic Bullet or Pandora’s Box? A Case Study on Biological Controls Gary M. Fortier, Delaware Valley College Teaching Notes for “Rabbit Calicivirus Disease”	The characters in this dilemma case, representing the scientific community and government, must make a decision about whether or not to release a virulent pathogen into the environment in order to control the rapidly expanding population of European rabbits in New Zealand. As they work through the case, students grapple with the complex issues associated with introduced species and biological controls.
Fecal Coliforms in Antarctica Stephen Nold, University of Wisconsin-Stout Teaching Notes for “Fecal Coliforms in Antarctica”	In this interrupted case study, students explore the environmental consequences of Antarctic research as they design experiments to assess the impact of disposing untreated sewage from a research station into the ocean. Students review experimental methods to measure coliform bacteria, examine data, and decide what actions, if any, should be taken. Developed for a general microbiology course, the case could also be used in non-majors courses in science literacy, in which case the instructor would emphasize the process of data collection and analysis.
Watch Your Step: Understanding the Impact of Your Personal Consumption on the Environment Philip Camill, Carleton College Teaching Notes for “Watch Your Step”	This case makes use of the concept of the “ecological footprint," developed by Wackernagel and colleagues to quantify the amount of land area required to sustain the lifestyle of a population of any size. Students calculate their consumption of energy and materials to determine their personal ecological footprint and in the process learn about concepts of sustainability, ecological efficiency, and energy flow up food chains as well as the moral and ethical dimensions of how our lifestyles impact the Earth. The case includes an Excel spreadsheet for students to track their personal consumption of resources. Developed for an introductory biology course, the case could aalso be used in upper level courses such as ecology, conservation biology, evolution, diversity, and the biology of social issues, or in a non-majors biology course.
Threats to Biodiversity: A Case Study of Hawaiian Birds Sarah K. Huber, University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and Paula P. Lemons, Duke University Teaching Notes for “Threats to Biodiversity”	This case study analyzes the impact of introduced species on the bird populations of Hawaii. Students learn about what makes a certain introduced species more likely than another to become established in a new area; how introduced species can directly and indirectly affect endemic species; and why certain endemic species are particularly vulnerable to introduced species. Developed for an introductory biology course, the case could also be used in in upper level courses such as ecology, conservation biology, evolution, diversity, and the biology of social issues, or in a non-majors biology course.
The River Dammed: The Proposed Removal of the Lower Snake River Dams Alan Paul Price, University of Wisconsin–Washington County Teaching Notes for “The River Dammed”	In this dilemma case, Congresswoman Madeline Gibson must cast her vote on the fate of the lower Snake River dams. The stakeholders in this decision represent government agencies, small businesses, large industries, farmers, local tribes, environmentalists, and sports fishermen, and include among them many of her own family members. The case illustrates the conflicts that can arise when environmental concerns force people to reconsider long-standing policies with significant benefits and often entrenched supporters. Developed for an introductory-level environmental geology course, the case could also be used in environmental as well as biology courses.
Search for the Missing Sea Otters: An Ecological Detective Story Mary E. Allen and Mark L. Kuhlmann, Hartwick College Teaching Notes for “Search for the Missing Sea Otters”	Using a progressive disclosure format, this case study teaches students how to apply ecological principles to a real-life ecological problem--the decline in sea otter populations in Alaska. Students interpret data from graphs and tables and practice developing testable hypotheses as they work in groups to solve the mystery of the “missing” sea otters.
The Effects of Coyote Removal in Texas: A Case Study in Conservation Biology Margaret Carroll, Framingham State College Teaching Notes for “The Effects of Coyote Removal in Texas”	This interrupted case study presents published data on the effect of coyote removal in Texas. It was designed to help students in introductory level biology courses understand trophic level relationships and the role of keystone species. Students interpret data presented graphically and predict how changes at one trophic level may affect populations and communities at other trophic levels.
Exotics Darlene Panvini, Vanderbilt University Teaching Notes for “Exotics”	This case examines the biological, ecological, social, political, and economic factors surrounding exotic species as well as the role of resource managers in shaping public policy on environmental issues. In addition to conservation ecology courses, this case would be appropriate for a non-majors science course, a bioethics course, or a majors biology course such as ecology.
Eating PCBs from Lake Ontario: Is There an Effect or Not? A News Release Case Eric Ribbens, Western Illinois University Teaching Notes for “Eating PCBs from Lake Ontario”	This case is based on an actual news release reporting on research into the effects of eating Lake Ontario fish contaminated with PCBs. Developed to teach students about statistical analysis and experimental design, the case has been used in a senior-level biostatistics course as well as part of a one-week survey of statistics for a biological methods course. The case could also be used as a component of a course examining how the media reports science or in a course examining the effects of environmental contaminants.
To Spray or Not to Spray: A Debate Over Malaria and DDT Frank J. Dinan and Joseph F. Bieron, Canisius College Teaching Notes for “To Spray or Not To Spray”	In this case study, students grapple with the complex issues surrounding the use of DDT to control malaria. In their examination of the issue, students consider risk/benefit analysis and the precautionary principle, two techniques used when making policy decisions involving the impact of science and technology on society.
Too Many Deer! A Case Study in Managing Urban Deer Herds Eric Ribbens, Western Illinois University Teaching Notes for “Too Many Deer!”	A town meeting is the setting for this role-playing case study in which students explore the topics of overpopulation, bioethics, and management of urban wildlife.
Breathing Easy About New Air Pollution Standards Kathryn Rowberg, Purdue University Calumet Teaching Notes for “Breathing Easy About New Air Pollution Standards”	A town meeting is the backdrop for a role-playing case about ground-level ozone air pollution. The case consists of a flier and scripts drawn from public comment records on the current government mandate to reduce ground-level ozone by limiting nitrogen oxide emissions. Students play the parts of stakeholders and develop recommendations for reducing emissions.
Is Iron Fertilization Good for the Sea? LeLeng To, Goucher College Teaching Notes for “Is Iron Fertilization Good for the Sea?”	This case explores how human activities contribute to greenhouse effects and global warming and is appropriate for introductory biology, ecology, environmental biology, microbiology, and environmental microbiology classes as well as courses dealing with environmental policy.
Endangered? The Scenic St. Croix River: A Case Study in Water Stewardship Pamela Locke Davis, University of Minnesota Teaching Notes for “Endangered? The Scenic St. Croix River”	Controversy over management of the St. Croix River is the setting for this case study, which illustrates water resource concepts and the difficulties that can arise when making decisions about natural resources.
The Deforestation of the Amazon: A Case Study in Understanding Ecosystems and Their Value Phil Camill, Carleton College Teaching Notes for “The Deforestation of the Amazon”	In this case, students examine tropical deforestation in the Amazon from the perspective of three dominant stakeholders in the region: a peasant farmer, a logger, and an environmentalist. As part of the exercise, students perform a cost-benefit analysis of clearing a plot of tropical forest in the Amazon from the perspective of one of these stakeholder groups. Developed for a course in global change biology, this case could also be used in courses on general ecology, environmental science, environmental ethics, environmental policy, and environmental/ecological economics.
The Galapagos Nancy A. Schiller and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Galapagos”	Using problem-based learning and role-playing, students analyze the geological origins of the Galapagos Islands, their colonization, species formation, and threats to their biodiversity in this story of a graduate student caught between local fishermen and government officials fighting for control of the islands natural resources.
Salton, A Sea of Controversy Kristin B. Vessey, Bowling Green State University Teaching Notes for “Salton, A Sea of Controversy”	The Salton Sea is an “accidental” lake that receives used irrigation water from the Colorado River. Humans have profoundly altered the area’s ecosystems. The sea is important for wildlife and recreation but is now saltier than the ocean. How might it be saved? This case examines the Salton Sea’s problems and uncertain future.
The Bear Facts: Grizzly Recovery in the Bitterroot Ecosystem Grace A. Wang, Pennsylvania State University Teaching Notes for “The Bear Facts”	In this decision case, students consider the pros and cons of reintroducing grizzly bears into the northwestern United States as they learn about natural resource policy and the wildlife management decision-making process.
The Wolf, the Moose, and the Fir Tree: Who Controls Whom on Isle Royale? A Case Study of Trophic Interactions Gary Fortier, Delaware Valley College Teaching Notes for “The Wolf, the Moose, and the Fir Tree”	In this analysis case, students study predator-prey dynamics in the Isle Royale National Park ecosystem, drawing on data and findings reported in the scientific literature.
The Petition: A Global Warming Case Study Bruce Allen and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Petition”	The goal of this dilemma case study is to teach students about the various aspects of global warming. Students read graphs and interpret data, and consider the political, economic, and ethical issues surrounding the controversy.
Dialogues as Case Studies : Endangered Species Act Student papers by Andrew Abramowitz and Helena Bokobza	Students explore the issues surrounding the controversial Endangered Species Act in a series of “dialogue” papers over the issue of whether Atlantic Salmon in rivers in the State of Maine should be protected.
Evolutionary Biology
What Is a Species? Speciation and the Maggot Fly Joan Sharp, Simon Fraser University Teaching Notes for “What Is a Species?”	This clicker case is modified from Martin Kelly’s case study “As the Worm Turns: Speciation and the Apple Maggot Fly,” published on the National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science website. Classroom discussion of well understood cases of incipient speciation, such as the apple and hawthorn maggot fly Rhagoletis pomonella, can be an excellent tool for engaging students and teaching them about the mechanisms of speciation. Students learn about speciation, and then are presented with a case study in which the natural history of hawthorn and apple maggot flies is described. Students use various species concepts to decide if apple and hawthorn maggot flies should be considered separate species and decide what evidence is relevant to each species concept.
A Tale of Three Lice: A Case Study on Phylogeny, Speciation, and Hominin Evolution by Erin Barley and Joan Sharp, Simon Fraser University Teaching Notes for “A Tale of Three Lice”	When did hominins lose their body hair, and when did they begin wearing clothing? This case takes a novel approach to answering these questions by examining the surprising phylogeny of human head, body, and pubic lice. Students are led through the scientific process as they are asked to think about hypotheses, predictions, results, and conclusions. Clicker response systems are used to involve students in the process and to generate small group discussion. The case illustrates another important aspect of the scientific process: sometimes studies provide relevant data that don’t provide definitive answers. Recent phylogenetic research on ape lice has provided some interesting data, but the questions remain unanswered at present. The case integrates topics including phylogeny, speciation, and hominin evolution.
Not Necessarily on Purpose: Domestication and Speciation in the Canidae Family Thomas Horvath, SUNY College at Oneonta Teaching Notes for “Not Necessarily on Purpose”	In this clicker case, students learn about natural selection concepts and interpret phylogenies as they apply to the Canidae family. The case is based on the idea that the domestication of the dog was not likely an intentional event in human history. Rather, the dog as we know it was likely a result of natural selection events. Then, later intentional selective breeding events formed the many different breeds of dog. Most students are familiar with dogs and may be more open to the ideas of evolution and speciation when applied to this animal rather than to humans.
Darwin’s Finches and Natural Selection Cheryl Heinz, Benedictine University and Eric Ribbens, Western Illinois University Teaching Notes for “Darwin’s Finches and Natural Selection”	In this clicker case, students learn about natural selection through the research of Peter and Rosemary Grant and colleagues on the finches of the Galapagos Islands. Students are presented with data in the form of graphs and asked to determine what is happening to a population of finches as the changing environment produces changes in the shape of the finches’ beaks. This case is suitable for any size course in introductory biology, ecology, or evolution, and does not require any pre-requisite knowledge of evolution or natural selection. Although designed for use with personal response systems (clickers) and PowerPoint, the case can be adapted for use without these technologies.
Exaggerated Traits and Breeding Success in Widowbirds: A Case of Sexual Selection and Evolution J. Phil Gibson, University of Oklahoma Teaching Notes for “Exaggerated Traits and Breeding Success in Widowbirds”	Sexual selection has lead to the evolution of interesting traits and behaviors in many animal species. In widowbirds, males undergo a dramatic change in plumage coloration and produce exceptionally long tail feathers during the breeding season. This change in appearance has facets of both intrasexual and intersexual selection. As students work through this interrupted case, they develop hypotheses and propose corresponding experiments. They are then presented with data from actual experiments on sexual selection in widowbirds that they must analyze and interpret. Developed for introductory-level biology students, the case could be adapted for upper-division ecology and evolution courses.
Chimpanzee Droppings Lead Scientists to Evolutionary Discovery Erica F. Kosal, North Carolina Wesleyan College Teaching Notes for “Chimpanzee Droppings Lead Scientists to Evolutionary Discovery”	This interrupted case study focuses on the research of Dr. Beatrice Hahn, who investigates DNA sequences in chimpanzee droppings in order to explore the origins of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Students first consider the types of data that can be gained through collecting chimpanzee feces and studying the behavior of these animals. Students then apply this information to learn more about microevolution when they compare DNA sequences. Finally, students learn about ELISA tests and consider the role of basic and applied science. This case study is appropriate for an introductory biology course made up of non-majors, majors, or both.
And Now What, Ms. Ranger? The Search for the Intelligent Designer Clyde Freeman Herreid, University at Buffalo, State University of New York Teaching Notes for “And Now What, Ms. Ranger?”	Intelligent Design (ID) continues to be a hot political and educational topic in some parts of the country. This discussion case study uses the dramatic setting of a public school board as it considers whether district science teachers should be made to read a statement to their classes identifying ID as a competing theory to evolution that is worthy of scientific consideration. The relevant statement is in fact the one that was at the center of the 2004 controversy in Dover, Pennsylvania. This case would be appropriate in general biology or advanced courses where the focus is on evolution.
Equal Time for Intelligent Design? An Intimate Debate Case Clyde Freeman Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Equal Time for Intelligent Design?”	Whether Intelligent Design (ID) should be taught in a science classroom is a serious problem. This case study tackles the issue head-on by using intimate debate, a pedagogical structure in which small student groups are subdivided into opposing student pairs that take turns arguing each side of the issue. There is no audience for these concurrent mini-debates and the session concludes with groups reaching consensus. This case study would be appropriate in general biology or advanced courses where the focus is on evolution.
I’m Looking Over a White-Striped Clover: A Case of Natural Selection Susan Evarts, University of St. Thomas, Alison Krufka, Rowan University, and Chester Wilson, University of St. Thomas Teaching Notes for “I’m Looking Over a White-Striped Clover”	This case is an exploration of the process of natural selection using white clover (Trifolium repens) as an example. In general, two forms of white clover can be found around the world in various habitats. One type is able to produce cyanide in its leaves, while the other is not. This variation within the clover species, along with the fact that cyanide production is paired with the production of a white stripe on the leaf, is used to teach the process of evolution through natural selection. Students use the scientific method to explore these concepts. As an introduction to evolutionary concepts in biology, the case would be appropriate for both high school and college biology courses.
The Story of Dinosaur Evolution Jeffrey Scott Coker and Jimmie D. Agnew, Elon University	In this case, students write their own stories based on information taken from a review article by Paul Sereno on the evolution of dinosaurs in Science magazine. Students learn to distinguish between ornithischians, sauropodomorphs, and theropods on the basis of physical characteristics; trace the ancestry of individual dinosaur species from the common ancestor; interpret a complex evolutionary tree which includes extinctions, speciation events, and changes in the number of taxa over time; and write their own Story of Dinosaur Evolution. The case was designed for use in non-majors introductory science courses, but could be used in majors’ courses as well.
The Evolution of Creationism: Critically Appraising Intelligent Design Robin Pals-Rylaarsdam, Trinity Christian College Teaching Notes for “The Evolution of Creationism”	This PBL-formatted case study about the claims and criticisms of “Intelligent Design” (ID) was written for freshman biology majors at a Christian liberal arts college. In light of recent developments in school districts and state education boards across the country, this case would also be useful for education majors. Students read about the actions of proponents of ID as they work for its inclusion in the high school science curriculum. In the process, students learn about the nature of science and the importance of evolution in the field of biology. More advanced students are given the task of critically evaluating one specific (and much cited) claim made by ID supporters that the irreducible complexity of the bacterial flagellum suggests that it cannot be the product of evolution.
Why Sex Is Good Clyde Freeman Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Why Sex Is Good”	This interrupted case is based on a 2005 article in Nature that deals with the issue of sexual vs. asexual reproduction and their relative merits—a question that has bedeviled biologists for over 100 years. Written by three scientists from the Imperial College London, it is a recent attempt to nail down the driving force giving sexual reproduction a raison d’être. The article serves as the final stage of this case focusing on why sex is good (at least in some circumstances). Written for a general biology class where the question of evolution is considered, the case would also be appropriate for use in an evolution or ecology course.
An Antipodal Mystery Clyde Freeman Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “An Antipodal Mystery”	The discovery of the platypus had the scientific world in an uproar and kept it tantalized for decades. Here was the strangest animal ever seen. How was one to classify it? It had fur. So, was it a mammal? But then what to make of its duck-like bill? And how did it produce and suckle its young? This interrupted case, based on the book by Ann Moyal entitled Platypus: The Extraordinary Story of How a Curious Creature Baffled the World, focuses on classification and evolution and models the scientific process, with scientists arguing, debating, collecting more information, and revising their opinions as more data become available.
A Strange Fish Indeed: The Discovery of a Living Fossil Robert H. Grant, Saint Louis University Teaching Notes for “A Strange Fish Indeed”	Through a series of fictionalized diary entries, this case recounts the 1939 discovery by Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer (and identification by J.L.B. Smith) of a living coelacanth, a fish believed to be extinct for over 70 million years. Developed for use in a freshman biology course as an introduction to the nature and methods of scientific inquiry, the case could also be modified for use in a number of upper-level biology courses such as ichthyology, evolutionary biology, and conservation ecology.
Conversations with Fireflies: A Case Study of Mimicry and Defense Lisa Carloye, Elon University Teaching Notes for “Conversations with Fireflies”	This case explores the aggressive mimicry behavior of the femme fatale firefly - female fireflies in the genus Photuris that mimic the flash pattern of females in the genus Photinus in order to lure Photinus males to their death. The case consists of a story featuring entries in an old field notebook that are based on the research of J.E. Lloyd, originally published in Science in 1965, as well as a series of handouts that the instructor presents to the students for analysis and discussion in class in a progressive disclosure format.
My Brother’s Keeper: A Case Study in Evolutionary Biology and Animal Behavior Kari Benson, Lynchburg College Teaching Notes for “My Brother’s Keeper”	In this interrupted case, students work in teams to interpret behavioral data with respect to evolutionary biology, specifically the behavior of alarm calling in a certain type of ground squirrel, which was first reported by Paul Sherman in Science in 1977. The case is appropriate for use in animal behavior, ecology, evolutionary biology, or introductory biology courses.
As the Worm Turns: Speciation and the Apple Maggot Fly Martin G. Kelly, Buffalo State College Teaching Notes for “As the Worm Turns”	At what point in evolutionary development does a group of individuals become two distinct species? This case addresses that fundamental question by asking students to decide whether apple maggot flies are distinct as a species from hawthorn maggot flies.In making their decision, students examine the different models of speciation and consider the primary forces that effect evolutionary change.
The Rocky Mountain Locust: Extinction and the American Experience Charles R. Bomar, University of Wisconsin–Stout Teaching Notes for “The Rocky Mountain Locust”	This case explores the conservation and social issues associated with the destruction of vast tracts of farmland in the Great Plains in the late 1800s caused by massive swarms of the Rocky Mountain Locust, Melanoplus spretus. The case was developed for a freshman non-majors environmental science course. Components of it could also be used in an ecology, general biology, public policy, history, or political science course.
The Case of Desiree’s Baby: The Genetics and Evolution of Human Skin Color Patricia Schneider, Queensborough Community College Teaching Notes for “The Case of Desiree’s Baby”	This case is based on Kate Chopin’s short story “Desiree’s Baby,” a tragic tale of race and gender in antebellum Louisiana first published in 1893. Students read the story and then answer a series of questions about the genetics and evolution of skin color. The case was developed for a general biology course organized around the general theme of evolution. It could also be used in anthropology and biology courses for non-majors.
Si el Norte Fuera el Sur: A Case of Squirrel Monkey Identities Karin Gastreich, Duke University Teaching Notes for “Si el Norte Fuera el Sur”	In this case study, students are given the task of developing a recovery plan to protect a recently discovered population of Central American squirrel monkeys on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. In the process they must determine whether the population is a separate species or related to another species of monkeys in the area.
Little Mito: The Story of Where He Came From Stephanie Vail and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Little Mito”	Fanciful story about the origin of the eukaryotic cell. Written for college and high school introductory biology classes, students learn about the structure and functions of the cell.
Nanobacteria: Are They or Aren’t They Alive? Merri Lynn Casem, California State University, Fullerton Teaching Notes for “Nanobacteria”	This case study draws upon two recently published conflicting research reports on the status of nanobacteria as living organisms to explore basic concepts related to the biological definition of life and the process of scientific investigation.
Something’s Fishy in Paxton Lake: Speciation in Sticklebacks Joan Sharp, Simon Fraser University Teaching Notes for “Something’s Fishy in Paxton Lake”	In this interrupted case study, students explore the mechanisms of speciation while working in groups to design a series of experiments to determine whether two populations of sticklebacks in Paxton Lake in British Columbia represent separate species or not. The case was designed for use in the final week of a general biology course organized around the general theme of evolutionary mechanisms and the history of life on earth.
Mom Always Liked You Best: Examining the Hypothesis of Parental Favoritism Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Mom Always Liked You Best”	This case study is based on a journal article on the parenting behavior of American coots. Working through the case, students develop hypotheses and design experiments to test their hypotheses as they are given pieces of the case in an interrupted case format. A “prologue” to the case describes the interrupted case format in detail.
Trouble in Paradise: A Case of Speciation James A. Hewlett, Finger Lakes Community College Teaching Notes for “Trouble in Paradise”	In this case study, students apply principles they have learned in class to create their own story explaining the evolutionary history of a previously unknown species of rodent discovered on an island in the West Indies.
The Missing Link Elizabeth Strasser, California State University, Sacramento Teaching Notes for “The Missing Link”	The setting for this case study is a paleontological dig in East Africa, where Sam, an American undergraduate student, has unearthed part of what appears to be an ancestral human skull. In the lab, students examine a number of primate skulls and are asked to make up a phylogeny based on their observations.
Of Mammoths and Men: A Case Study in Extinction Nancy A. Schiller, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Of Mammoths and Men”	The recent discovery of a mammoth frozen in the Siberian tundra is the backdrop for this case study, which explores the various theories for the extinction of the great Ice Age mammals and Homo neanderthalensis. Students research evidence for and against the different hypotheses and then discuss in class the merits of each.
Should Dinosaurs be “Cloned” from Ancient DNA? Constance M. Soja and Deborah Huerta, Colgate University Teaching Notes for “Should Dinosaurs be ‘Cloned’ from Ancient DNA?”	Using cooperative learning and role-playing, students explore the scientific, technical, environmental, and ethical issues related to the possibility of “cloning” dinosaurs from DNA extracted from fossilized dinosaur remains.
The Galapagos Nancy A. Schiller and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Galapagos”	Using problem-based learning and role-playing, students analyze the geological origins of the Galapagos Islands, their colonization, species formation, and threats to their biodiversity in this story of a student caught between local fishermen and government officials fighting for control of the islands natural resources.
The Dating Game: A Case Study in Human Evolution Shoshana Tobias, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Dating Game”	In this role-playing case study, students attempt to determine the identity of a variety of human fossils based on characteristics described during a “quiz show.”
Seven Skeletons and a Feather: The Mysteries of Archaeopteryx Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Seven Skeletons and a Feather”	This problem-based learning case uses Archaeopteryx, the most famous fossil in the world, to show the vital role that fossils play in understanding evolutionary history and to explore the different theories for the origin of flight and the ongoing debate over a bird-dinosaur connection.
Alien Evolution: The Return of the Cambrian Explosion Shoshana Tobias, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Alien Evolution”	In this case, which combines problem-based learning and role-playing, students research the environmental conditions of the Cambrian period and the types of organisms that developed during that time as they speculate about possible cases for the “Cambrian Explosion.”
Food Science and Technology
Would You Supersize My Cancer Please? A Case Study Exploring Chemicals in the News Ashley Coffelt and Mark M. Richter, Missouri State University Teaching Notes for “Would You Supersize My Cancer Please?”	The recent discovery of acrylamide in both fried and baked foods like French fries and potato chips has caused alarm. Acrylamide is both a known carcinogen in animals when administered in high doses and a neurotoxin when humans are exposed to large amounts in the workplace. However, the link between acrylamide in food and human health is much less clear. In working through the case, students compare the accuracy of news headlines, articles, and web pages with the information presented in scientific journals. This case was designed for non-science major courses and can also be used in seminars.
Certified Cultured Beef: Raising Beef Without the Cow? Bryan Hains, Dawn Hains, and Mark Balschweid, Purdue University Teaching Notes for “Certified Cultured Beef?”	In this case study, students are introduced to concepts and techniques in modern biotechnology, as well as the possible implications of this emerging science, by considering the possibility of in vitro cultured meat. Intended for use in a college-level meat science, food science, or human nutrition course, the case could also be used in courses in environmental science, agribusiness, agriculture law and policy, biomedical, animal philosophy/well-being, and high school AP food science.
Out of the Frying Pan and Into the Grease Fire: A Case Study in Food Science Ingolf Gruen, University of Missouri Teaching Notes for “Out of the Frying Pan and Into the Grease Fire”	Late on a Saturday night, a fire in the kitchen of a popular restaurant results in close to half a million dollars in damages; fortunately there is no loss of life or serious injury. Fire department officials think that a grease fire was the most likely cause of the blaze, but the investigation is still ongoing. Students assume the role of the fire chief heading up the investigation as they gather facts for the insurance report they must write about the fire. The case was developed for a course in food chemistry taken primarily by food science and dietetics students. It could also be used in a hotel and restaurant management program.
Irradiation: Is It Consumer-Friendly? R.C. (Swamy) Anantheswaran, Pennsylvania State University Teaching Notes for “Irradiation: Is It Consumer-Friendly?”	This case introduces students to consumer perceptions and beliefs on scientific topics, and teaches them how the food industry evaluates processing technologies from a business perspective.
The Benign Hamburger Graham Peaslee, Hope College, Juliette Lantz, Siena College, and Mary M. Walczak, St. Olaf College Teaching Notes for “The Benign Hamburger”	In this dilemma case study, in which a restaurant chain must decide whether to use irradiated beef to protect its customers from E. coli, students are introduced to nuclear applications aside from those involving nuclear power generation and weapons.
Frankenfoods? The Debate Over Genetically Modified Crops Bill Rhodes, Clemson University, Maha M. Alkhazindar, Cairo University, and Nancy A. Schiller, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Frankenfoods”	This discussion case, in which a university research laboratory is vandalized by environmental activists opposed to genetic engineering, focuses on the science and ethics of genetically modified crops. Students consider both the risks and benefits of biotechnology and explore the positions of various stakeholders including environmentalists, conservationists, agricultural businesses, research scientists, and farmers. Originally written for a vegetable crops course, the case would be appropriate for a wide variety of courses in which biotechnology is discussed.
Forensic Science
A Headache to Die For: A Case Study in Forensic Science Wayne Shew, Birmingham-Southern College Teaching Notes for “A Headache to Die For”	This case, based on an actual case of product tampering that occurred in Seattle in 1986, was designed for use in an introductory course in forensic science for non-science majors. By working through the case, students gain an understanding of the variety of strands of evidence that have to be woven together in order to develop a case against someone who has committed a crime, specifically a murder. It also touches on the importance of communication between different law enforcement agencies in solving crimes. In addition, students consider how probability can play a role in crime investigations and learn what latent fingerprints are and how an investigator collects them and uses them in an investigation.
General Cases
Osmosis Is Serious Business! Troy R. Nash, Presbyterian College, Clinton, SC Teaching Notes for “Osmosis Is Serious Business!”	This directed case study involves two “stories,” each one concerned with some aspect of osmosis in living cells. Part I is centered around the effects of a hypertonic environment on plant cells, while Part II focuses on the effects of a hypotonic environment on animal cells. After reading the parts, students working in small groups evaluate the information and answer the corresponding questions. This case was designed for use in a Gen Ed/non-majors biology course, but could be adapted for use in a majors’ introductory biology course or a high school biology class.
Salem’s Secrets: A Case Study on Hypothesis Testing and Data Analysis Susan M. Nava-Whitehead, Becker College, and Joan-Beth Gow, Anna Maria College Teaching Notes for “Salem’s Secrets”	This case study examines the Salem witch trials that took place in Salem, Massachusetts, in the late 1600s. It is designed to provide students with an opportunity to analyze and critique data and to help them understand the scientific method. Originally developed for a non-majors general biology course, the case could be used in a variety of other courses such as psychology, microbiology, sociology, biostatistics, and American history by focusing on particular aspects of the case. Likewise, this case provides an excellent opportunity for teaching across the curriculum.
Life—The Final Frontier: A Case Study on the Characteristics of Life William Rogers, Ball State University and Thomas Horvath, SUNY College at Oneonta Teaching Notes for “Life—The Final Frontier”	This is a clicker case designed for introductory biology courses (college-level or high school) and comes with a Power Point slide show along with embedded clicker questions. The case centers around students defining the characteristics of living organisms and applying these to living, nonliving, and previously living objects. In addition to the slides, students generate a list of life characteristics for use in the case. In the fictional scenario, the President of the United States must decide whether to announce that NASA has discovered extraterrestrial life. However, NASA is unsure as to how to define their discovery. The case can be run as a mini introduction to the topic or as a full lecture period exercise.
What Is Native Fluency? The Ambiguous Nature of Bilingualism and Its Ramifications for Writing Instruction Susan Behrens and Cindy Mercer, Marymount Manhattan College Teaching Notes for “What Is Native Fluency?”	The focus of this case study is the way differing views on native fluency and bilingualism have an impact on writing instruction in colleges. In the case, students read about the high school and college experiences of a young woman who moved to the United States from the Dominican Republic at age nine with a good deal of fluent, informal spoken English, but little skill in reading and writing formal, standard English. Students follow Maria as she wrestles with her identity as an English user and, along the way, encounter high school teachers and college professors wrestling with a lack of information about how students gain mastery of a language and literacy.
Inactive Brains: An Interrupted Case Study David K. Spierer, Long Island University–Brooklyn, Sandra Williams, University of South Alabama–Springhill, and Jim Lyttle, Long Island University–Brooklyn Teaching Notes for “Inactive Brains”	Two speakers have been have been invited to a town hall meeting to help decide a hotly contested issue. A grant has been awarded to the school district with the stipulation that the money be dedicated to only one program. School officials wish to use the funds to improve the science curriculum, but district parents favor an investment in physical education to improve the health of their children. Since the grant money cannot be divided, students are forced to grapple with the role of science in education, the growing problem of childhood obesity, and related issues of public policy.
Cell Phone Use and Cancer: A Case Study to Explore the Scientific Method Wilma V. Colon Parrilla, University of Puerto Rico Teaching Notes for “Cell Phone Use and Cancer”	In this case study, students analyze a particular piece of scientific research, first by analyzing news articles reporting on the research and then by reading the original research article. In working through the case, students identify the basic elements of a scientific research study; evaluate the study and offer suggestions for improvement; analyze the appropriateness of the headlines of news articles in relation to their content; and compare the accuracy of information offered to the public in a news article with the information presented in a scientific paper. Designed for an introductory course in biological sciences for non-majors, the case could be used in any course that includes the study of the scientific method as well as in a scientific journalism course.
A Word to the Wise? Advising Freshmen Jessica Dudek, Nigel Marriner, and Clyde Freeman Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “A Word to the Wise?”	Freshmen frequently struggle with major decisions both inside and outside of school. Even if they have required advisement sessions, they do not always know what questions to ask and what information to share with an advisor. This is true even for many science students who think they have certain career goals and a clearly delineated set of requirements. This case was designed to sharpen freshmen Honors students understanding of the advisement process. It could also be used early in the semester in a general science course as an icebreaker, especially in courses where case studies will be used.
A Rush to Judgment? A Case of Research Ethics and Design Sheryl R. Ginn, Wingate University, and Elizabeth Meinz, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Teaching Notes for “A Rush to Judgment?”	This case describes a study conducted by students in which a number of ethical issues arise including the treatment of research participants and the supervision of student research assistants by faculty. By examining the way in which the study was conducted, students also begin to explore the basic principles of good experimental design. The case was developed for a sophomore-level research methods course as an introduction to research ethics and design. It could also be used in an introductory psychology course or other introductory-level science courses to illustrate the research process in science.
The Raelians: Visionary Science or Quackery? A Case Study Exploring the Scientific Method and Human Cloning Scott D. Zimmerman, University of Wisconsin–Stout Teaching Notes for “The Raelians”	The topics of human cloning and pseudoscience are introduced in this case through the story of Claude Vorilhon, a French auto racing journalist who makes some unusual claims regarding the influence of extraterrestrials on human history and purpose. The case describes Vorilhons establishment of a company, Clonaid, whose goal is to produce the first human clone. Students read about the companys claims of success and consider the evidence as well as the ethics involved.
Extrasensory Perception—Pseudoscience? A Battle at the Edge of Science Sarah G. Stonefoot and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Extrasensory PerceptionPseudoscience?”	The overall purpose of this case study is to teach students to be skeptical of scientific claims, particularly those that are sensational and fall outside the boundaries of normal scientific explanation. Students read the case and then evaluate information to determine whether they believe there is enough scientific evidence to confirm the existence of extrasensory perception. The case was developed for for use in an introductory science or psychology course, but would also be appropriate for courses in human biology in which the nervous system is explored.
The Case of the Dividing Cell: Mitosis and Meiosis in the Cellular Court Clyde Freeman Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Case of the Dividing Cell”	The Honorable Judge Cellular is presiding over the case of The State vs.Egg Cell Number 6624223. As the prosecuting attorney calls each witness to the stand and the courtroom drama unfolds, students learn about the stages of mitosis and meiosis and their particular characteristics, and how cell division in prokaryotes differs from that in eukaryotes. The case is suited to an introductory biology course and would also work well in high school biology classes.
Prayer Study: Science or Not? Kathy Gallucci, Elon University Teaching Notes for “Prayer Study”	In this case, students read a news article about a study of the effects of intercessory prayer on cardiac patients published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. After reading the case and discussing the questions in small groups, students evaluate the study for its scientific validity and defend their reasoning. The case was developed to teach non-science majors in an introductory biology course about the scientific method.
A Recipe for Invention: Scientist Biographies Traci E. Morris and Susannah Gal, Binghamton University	In this case study, designed to help break down stereotypes about scientists, students research the personal and professional lives of researchers in their field. The case was designed for use in high school to upper level graduate courses in a variety of scientific disciplines, including molecular biology, biochemistry, geology, chemistry, psychology, mathematics, computer science, engineering, and anthropology. In the teaching notes, the authors provide lists of scientists for each of these disciplines as well as suggestions for classroom activties that can be used in various combinations to build on the students’ biographical research.
Anthrax Attack! A Case on Bioterrorism Kari A. Mergenhagen, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Anthrax Attack!”	This case study presents a fictitious bio-terrorist plan to release anthrax in the United States. Students are assigned character roles and, through research, role-playing, and teamwork, develop a plan to minimize or avert the attack. The case is appropriate for courses designed for health professionals, general biology courses, and social science courses.
Thinking Inside the Box Christopher T. Bailey, Wells College Teaching Notes for “Thinking Inside the Box”	In this particular take on the classic “Black Box Experiment,” students working in groups are given sealed boxes containing objects that they must make indirect observations about and then report their observations to the class in a simulated conference setting. An effective lead-in exercise to a discussion of the scientific method, it can also be used in a general chemistry course to teach students about atomic structure and how experimental evidence can be used to infer structure.
Love Potion #10 Susan Holt, New York State Biology Mentor Network Teaching Notes for “Love Potion #10”	In this case, students are asked to consider whether there is evidence to adequately support a series of scientific claims made in an advertisement for pheromones. The case teaches students about the scientific method and the process of science. The case was designed for use in advanced, average, and below average high school (grades 9-12) biology classes. It could also be used in AP Biology or in an introductory college biology course.
Mother’s Milk Cures Cancer? Researchers Deliberate Over Whether to Publish Linda Tichenor, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville Teaching Notes for “Mother’s Milk Cures Cancer?”	This case study on the immune system, cell cycle regulation, and cancer biology explores the role that serendipity plays in new discoveries in science, how scientific research is funded, and the personal and professional implications of unexpectedly finding one’s self on the “cutting-edge.”
Nanobacteria: Are They or Aren’t They Alive? Merri Lynn Casem, California State University, Fullerton Teaching Notes for “Nanobacteria”	This case study draws upon two recently published conflicting research reports on the status of nanobacteria as living organisms to explore basic concepts related to the biological definition of life and the process of scientific investigation.
A Case in Point: From Active Learning to the Job Market Mary Walczak, St. Olaf College, and Juliette Lantz, Drew University Teaching Notes for “A Case in Point”	This case uses the example of an employer deciding between several recent graduates’ resumes to demonstrate how students can use their course work to get a job after college.
Geography / GIS
The Fate and Transport of Toxic Releases: A GIS Case Study David Kelley, University of St. Thomas Teaching Notes for “The Fate and Transport of Toxic Releases”	The release of toxins into the environment and the federal governments tracking of that using the Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) compiled by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are the focus of this case study, which uses GIS to explore the potential impacts of the release of such substances. The case was developed for an introductory environmental studies course. It would also be appropriate for use in an introductory GIS course or cartography course where some analysis is required, an introductory chemistry course for non-majors (with some more prep work on partitioning coefficients and fate and transport), or a basic soils course where remediation techniques are emphasized. The case study requires ESRIs ArcView 3.3 software in a computer lab setting, although it can easily be adapted for use with ArcGIS 9.x.
A Lake Runs Through It . . . Or Is It a River? Or Something Else? Christine A. Lai, Daemen College, and Julio C. Rivera, Jr., Carthage College Teaching Notes for “A Lake Runs Through It . . .”	In the late 1990s, the town of Tempe, Arizona, proposed developing the dry riverbed of the Salt River into a lake that would become a recreational and economic focal point for the city as well as a potential tourist destination. The project presented a number of challenges and issues. In this case study, students learn about, and then use, a marketing strategy analysis framework known as SWOT to analyze the project in terms of market opportunities and threats and organizational strengths and weaknesses. The case was developed for use in a course in economic geography, but could be adapted to courses in environmental science and urban planning/geography, for example.
Snowboarding in New York State: A GIS Case Study Jeffrey C. Brunskill and Christopher A. Badurek, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Snowboarding in New York State”	In this case, developed for a course on maps and mapping, a land developer is interested in purchasing an existing New York State ski area and converting it into a resort that caters to snowboarders. Students play the role of consultants hired to analyze eight resorts and determine the most suitable site for investment based on a variety of spatial variables such as a population, income, education, transportation networks, and annual snowfall. The students task is to outline the criteria to use in determining the optimal site, analyze the available datasets, and present a proposal based on their findings.
Geology
A Question of Responsibility: Whose Asbestos Caused Her Lung Disease? Joy M. Branlund, Southwestern Illinois College, Granite City, IL Teaching Notes for “A Question of Responsibility”	Most students are aware that asbestos is a health hazard, but don’t know that “asbestos” refers to a variety of minerals with both useful and harmful properties. In this case, students answer questions they have about asbestos in the context of an asbestos-related personal injury lawsuit. They learn about different asbestos types and uses, as well as how people are exposed to and harmed by asbestos. Students apply what they learn to the lawsuit presented in the case, as well as in a follow-up activity in which they weigh the risks of leaving asbestos in public buildings against the risks of removing it.
The River Dammed:The Proposed Removal of the Lower Snake River Dams Alan Paul Price, University of Wisconsin–Washington County Teaching Notes for “The River Dammed”	In this dilemma case, Congresswoman Madeline Gibson must cast her vote on the fate of the lower Snake River dams. The stakeholders in this decision represent government agencies, small businesses, large industries, farmers, local tribes, environmentalists, and sports fishermen, and include among them many of her own family members. The case illustrates the conflicts that can arise when environmental concerns force people to reconsider long-standing policies with significant benefits and often entrenched supporters. Developed for an introductory-level environmental geology course, the case could be used in environmental as well as biology courses.
Is a Mars Sample Return Mission Too Risky? Troy D. Wood, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Is a Mars Sample Return Mission Too Risky”	Following a public hearing format, this case study allows students to explore the scientific and public policy issues surrounding the advisability of a return mission to Mars for further sampling and, more generally, the question of whether or not there is life on that planet. The case was developed for a non-science majors course called “Great Discoveries in Science” and serves to illustrate the scientific method and the importance of interdisciplinary efforts in scientific research.
Into the Abyss: The Case of the Collapsing Sinkhole David L. Ozsvath, University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point Teaching Notes for “Into the Abyss”	Designed for use with small groups in an introductory geology class, this case allows students to determine the relationship between sinkhole development and groundwater levels. Students then apply this knowledge to a lawsuit filed when a driver of a minivan lost his life after his car plunged into a sinkhole.
Should Dinosaurs be “Cloned” from Ancient DNA? Constance M. Soja and Deborah Huerta, Colgate University Teaching Notes for “Should Dinosaurs be ‘Cloned’ from Ancient DNA?”	Using cooperative learning and role-playing, students explore the scientific, technical, environmental, and ethical issues related to the possibility of “cloning” dinosaurs from DNA extracted from fossilized dinosaur remains
The Slippery Slope of Litigating Geologic Hazards: California’s Portuguese Bend Landslide David Ozsvath, University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point Teaching Notes for “The Slippery Slope of Litigating Geologic Hazards”	This case, based on a lawsuit brought against the County of Los Angeles by homeowners suing over damage to their homes in the wake of the Portuguese Bend Landslide, illustrates the difficulties involved with litigation resulting from natural hazards as it teaches some principles of landslide movement.
The Petition: A Global Warming Case Study Bruce Allen and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Petition”	The goal of this dilemma case study is to teach students about the various aspects of global warming. Students read graphs and interpret data, and consider the political, economic, and ethical issues surrounding the controversy.
Life on Mars: A Dilemma Case Study in Planetary Geology Bruce C. Allen and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Life on Mars”	This dilemma case chronicles the 1996 revelation by NASA of evidence of life on Mars and explores the ethics of announcing scientific discoveries to the public prematurely.
Limnology
A Killer Lake Thomas Horvath, SUNY College at Oneonta Teaching Notes for “A Killer Lake”	In 1986, Lake Nyos, a volcanic lake located in Cameroon, Africa, released a huge amount of carbon dioxide gas, killing over 1,700 people and countless livestock and other animals in the area. This case, intended for use in a limnology or an aquatic biology course, explores that event, introducing students to concepts related to lake formation, thermal stratification, and dissolved gases. Students interpret graphs containing temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and conductivity data for the lake, and then synthesize these different types of limnological data to understand what happened.
Mathematics / Statistics
Rated MPG for Confusion: Using Gas Mileage to Learn Graphing and Data Analysis Skills by Claudia Bode, University of Kansas, Alan Gleue, Lawrence High School, and Carolyn Pearson, Bonner Springs High School Teaching Notes for “Rated MPG for Confusion”	This case study follows a family’s dilemma about how to save money on gasoline. Should they keep their SUV and trade in their Corolla for a hybrid sedan? Going from 28 (Corolla) to 48 (Hybrid) miles per gallon (mpg) should really save money on gas. That’s a change of 20 mpg! Or, should they keep their Corolla and trade in their SUV for a minivan? The SUV gets about 13 mpg and the Minivan gets 17 mpg (a 4 mpg improvement). As they work through the case, students learn how to analyze fuel efficiency in terms of “gallons per miles” driven instead of miles per gallon (MPG), and gain graphing and data analysis skills. An extension activity also relates fuel efficiency to green house gas emissions.
Lady Tasting Coffee: A Case Study in Experimental Design by Jacinth Maynard, Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania, and Mary Puterbaugh Mulcahy and Daniel Kermick, University at Pittsburgh at Bradford Teaching Notes for “Lady Tasting Coffee”	In the 1920s, biologist and statistician Ronald Fisher met a lady who claimed she could taste whether a cup of tea was prepared by adding milk before or after the tea. Fisher’s essay about the tea party may be one of the first cases published to teach the process of science. The present case is a modernized version of Fisher’s story and concerns the ability of a woman to distinguish between cups of coffee with milk added first or second. The case is enhanced by a mock event in which students distinguish between 2% and skim milk, brands of bottled water, or brands of soda. The case study objectives are to teach students concepts of experimental design, especially randomization, replication, and the probability of obtaining extreme results by chance.
Experimental Design and Statistical Analysis: Bt Corn, Lignin, and ANOVAs Eric Ribbens, Western Illinois University Teaching Notes for “Experimental Design and Statistical Analysis: Bt Corn, Lignin, and ANOVAs”	This case is based on a research paper about the lignin content of genetically modified corn published in the American Journal of Botany. Students are asked to analyze and discuss the paper, focusing on questions related to experimental design and interpretation and a critique of the statistical data presented. Developed for a plant ecology course and a biostatistics course, the case could be used in courses on plant anatomy, plant physiology, soil ecology, agriculture, or genetics.
Eating PCBs from Lake Ontario: Is There an Effect or Not? A News Release Case Eric Ribbens, Western Illinois University Teaching Notes for “Eating PCBs from Lake Ontario”	This case is based on an actual news release reporting on research into the effects of eating Lake Ontario fish contaminated with PCBs. Developed to teach students about statistical analysis and experimental design, the case has been used in a senior-level biostatistics course as well as part of a one-week survey of statistics for a biological methods course. The case could also be used as a component of a course examining how the media reports science or in a course examining the effects of environmental contaminants.
Chuck A. Luck Wagers a Buck: Probabilistic Reasoning and the Gambler’s Ruin Christopher M. Rump, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Chuck A. Luck Wagers a Buck”	This directed case study, based on a question asked in a newspaper column about a popular carnival game of chance, was developed for an undergraduate course introducing probabilistic models. Students answer questions that explore both correct and incorrect probabilistic arguments as they apply to the game.
Markov vs. Markov: Divorce by the Numbers Christopher M. Rump, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Markov vs. Markov”	Students build a Markov chain probability model of marriage and divorce using statistics--the chance of divorcing in a given year and the chance of divorcing eventually--taken from a recent article on the subject with the goal of learning to look at statistics with a critical eye and questioning mind.
Medical Ethics
Sex and Vaccination Erik Zavrel and Clyde Freeman Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Sex and Vaccination”	This case study focuses on the controversy surrounding the decision by Texas Governor Rick Perry to mandate the compulsory vaccination of girls in the Texas public school system against the human papillomavirus (HPV) prior to entering the sixth grade. The interrupted case method is particularly appropriate for this subject, with successive sections providing a general overview of the disease, the reasons for and against such a mandatory vaccination program, and a disclosure of what ultimately transpired in Texas. Designed for an ethics or public policy course, the case could easily be adapted to emphasize biological and medical topics.
Treating Ed: A Medical Ethics Case Study Eric Ribbens, Western Illinois University Teaching Notes for “Treating Ed”	Ed is dying. How should his wishes for medical treatment be carried out? As the case unfolds, students explore the rights and responsibilities of doctors, patients, and patient representatives regarding difficult medical decisions. Specifically, students consider the ramifications of Advance Directives and Durable Powers of Attorney. The case was written for an introductory biology course, but could easily be used in or modified for a human anatomy and physiology, introductory nursing, or medical ethics course.
Saving Superman: Ethics and Stem Cell Research Doug Post and Doug Knutson, The Ohio State University Teaching Notes for “Saving Superman”	This case, based on another case in our collection, explores the political and ethical issues associated with stem cell research. Students read the case describing Christopher Reeve’s accident and injuries and his advocacy for stem cell research along with background readings on stem cells and the ethics of stem cell research. They are then assigned to one of four stakeholder groups and asked to develop a position on whether or not the U.S. Senate should expand stem cell research with a focus on the ethics underlying the issue, which they then present in class in a simulated public hearing.
The Plan: Ethics and Physician Assisted Suicide Doug Post and Doug Knutson, The Ohio State University	This case study on physician-assisted suicide is used in a medical ethics course. The case itself is a short article published in 1991 in the New England Journal of Medicine in which Dr. Timothy E. Quill described his care for a patient suffering from acute leukemia, including how he prescribed a lethal dose of barbiturates, knowing the woman intended to commit suicide. As a consequence of the articles publication, a grand jury was convened to consider a charge of manslaughter against Dr. Quill. Students read the case and then, as part of a classroom-simulated trial, discuss physician-assisted suicide in terms of fundamental medical ethics principals.
To Tell the Truth: Delivering Bad News to Patients Doug Knutson and Doug Post, The Ohio State University Teaching Notes for “To Tell the Truth”	This case was developed to teach first-year medical students about medical ethics as they apply to patient communication and the giving of bad news. Students receive an introductory lecture covering the basics of giving bad news and then are asked to apply what they’ve learned to a real life medical situation they read about. The case describes a man who, recently retired, is looking forward to a cruise trip with his wife, but he hasn’t been feeling well. Medical tests show he has colon cancer. Students, assuming the role of the physician, must decide when and how to break the bad news.
Shannon and Jake: An Application of Medical Ethics Principles Doug Knutson and Doug Post, The Ohio State University Teaching Notes for “Shannon and Jake”	This case was developed to teach first-year medical students the basics of medical ethics. It describes a situation in which a family physician is treating a teenage patient for a sexually transmitted disease. Based on information she gives him, he is concerned not only for her health and welfare, but also for the health and welfare of others. Students read the case and discuss the choices the doctor might make using the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. Students then develop a rationale for the physician acting according to one of the ethical principles identified, and prepare a debate for the class supporting the rationale.
Medicine / Health
Blake’s Illness: A Case of “Wild Life” Management Cathy Santanello, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Teaching Notes for “Blake’s Illness”	Blake is sick. With his background in the sciences and a little help from the Internet, he should be able to do a self-diagnosis. Or can he? As this case study progresses, we follow the course of Blake’s illness and the eventual diagnosis of his disorder. This case works well as an interrupted case that can be assigned to individual students or student teams. It was written for a School of Pharmacy microbiology course, but could easily be used in a medical microbiology or infectious diseases course.
Speak Up! Mini Cases in Language Antoinette R. Miller, Clayton State University Teaching Notes for “Speak Up!”	This series of mini cases focuses on language deficits (aphasias) and their likely organic causes (problems in specific brain areas). Students read one of the six cases, which are based on actual cases reported in the literature, and connect the symptoms described in the case to a specific aphasia and the affected brain area(s). The cases could be used in a variety of courses, including physiological psychology, neuroscience, cognitive psychology, cognitive science, sensation and perception, and cognitive neuropsychology/neuroscience.
The Mystery of the Blue Death: A Case Study in Epidemiology and the History of Science Susan Bandoni Muench, SUNY Geneseo Teaching Notes for “The Mystery of the Blue Death”	This historical case study describes the story of John Snow’s discovery of water-borne transmission of cholera in 19th-century London. Designed for use in a Global Health class, the case explores cholera outbreaks and their causes as well as models of disease. In addition, the case provides a framework for discussing the nature of science, particularly non-experimental tests of hypotheses, the cultural context of science, and populational thinking. The case could be used in a variety of other contexts, including courses in microbiology and introductory biology for either majors or non-majors. Because it addresses the nature of science, it is also appropriate for courses in the history, philosophy, or sociology of science.
“I Can See Clearly Now…”—Mini Cases in Perception Antoinette R. Miller, Clayton State University, Morrow, GA Teaching Notes for “I Can See Clearly Now …”	This series of mini cases focuses on the cortical areas associated with vision and visual perception. Each case depicts a breakdown in visual perception that may be traced to damage in an area or areas of the visual system and is based upon an actual case or cases reported in the literature. The cases could be used in a variety of courses, including physiological psychology, neuroscience, cognitive psychology, cognitive science, sensation and perception, and cognitive neuropsychology/neuroscience.
But I’m Too Young! A Case Study of Ovarian Cancer Nancy Rice, Western Kentucky University, and Bruno Borsari, Winona State University Teaching Notes for “But I’m Too Young! A Case Study of Ovarian Cancer”	In this clicker case, students are introduced to Abby, a college student who has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. As they follow Abby’s plight, students learn about basic cellular and genetic mechanisms that are responsible for cancer formation, gaining a general understanding of how cells become cancerous through genetic mutations, how cancers can spread throughout the body by metastasizing, and how modern medicine is currently treating patients diagnosed with cancer through surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Although designed for use with personal response systems (clickers) and PowerPoint, the case can be adapted for use without these technologies.
A Case Study Involving Influenza and the Influenza Vaccine John Bennett, Carroll College Teaching Notes for “A Case Study Involving Influenza and the Influenza Vaccine”	This interrupted case study presents a discussion about the benefits of the influenza vaccine between Mary, a nursing student, and her coworker, Karen. Karen is not convinced by Mary’s arguments in favor of vaccination, and she counters with several common rationalizations for not getting the vaccine. Students work in small groups to evaluate the arguments for and against vaccination from the perspective of each woman. In addressing the questions associated with the case, students learn about the general biology of viral infections, treatment of infections, and immunity. The case was designed for use in an entry-level course in microbiology for nursing students or a first-year biology course for majors.
Mini Cases in Movement Disorders Antoinette R. Miller, Clayton State University, Morrow, GA Teaching Notes for “Mini Cases in Movement Disorders”	This collection of six short cases focuses on brain areas and neurotransmitters involved in the control of movement. Students are divided into working groups and given one or more of the case descriptions. Each scenario depicts a breakdown in the motor system that can be traced (at least in part) to some brain area or areas. Useful for a variety of courses, including physiological psychology and neurobiology, these cases are intended to give students an opportunity to apply knowledge gained from readings and lectures to real-life situations inspired by patient cases described in the literature.
Immunological Malfunction? Karen A. Pinco, Westfield State College, MA Teaching Notes for “Immunological Malfunction?”	This problem-based case study was developed to complement the study of the immune system and to emphasize the crosstalk that occurs at the cellular level between B and T cells for proper immune system function. In reading the story of a young couple trying to understand the cause of their infant boy’s constant bacterial infections, students will review the different classes of antibodies, their specific functions, and how they arise through isotope switching. Additionally, students will apply their knowledge of basic genetics as they examine how X-linked disorders are passed along and the role of genetic counselors in medicine.
The Case of a Tropical Disease and Its Treatment: Science, Society, and Economics Cathy Santanello and Jennifer Rehg, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville Teaching Notes for “The Case of a Tropical Disease and Its Treatment”	Designed for a Costa Rican study abroad course, but appropriate for traditional science courses as well, this case highlights the epidemiological and socioeconomic factors associated with Chagas disease. Adrian is a banana plantation worker who develops a mysterious illness. By reading his story, students learn about infectious diseases, pathogens, and vectors endemic to this area of Central America. Students are asked to diagnose Adrian’s illness and consider his dilemma with respect to treatment options. Students also examine alternate approaches to treating this illness that plagues thousands of Central and South American citizens.
When Drug Sales and Science Collide Elizabeth McCain, Muhlenberg College, Karin Grimnes, Alma College, and Cindy Trussell, Kodiak College–UAA Teaching Notes for “When Drug Sales and Science Collide”	When Jeff, a fictionalized drug representative, is placed on the Vioxx® account in 2001, he struggles to reconcile three original documents: a Merck marketing pamphlet, a graph from a scientific journal, and a confidential internal bulletin. While Jeff is pulled between sales and science, students interpret scientific data, grow to appreciate the importance of large sample sizes, consider ethical issues related to the pharmaceutical industry, and gain some understanding of why Vioxx, a wonder drug, was pulled off the market. This interrupted case is appropriate for advanced high school students, first year college science students or non-science students.
Breast Cancer Risk: Using Real Medical Histories to Rank Genetic and Environmental Influences Michèle Shuster, New Mexico State University and Karen Peterson, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Teaching Notes for “Breast Cancer Risk”	This case study takes a combined directed and discussion approach to explore risk factors for breast cancer. After a preparatory reading assignment, students assess various medical histories derived from actual women with breast cancer and rank their overall risk for breast cancer and make recommendations for risk reduction. The task is complicated by the different and often combined sources of risk (e.g., reproductive history, hormone replacement therapy and family history). Originally written for an introductory course, the case study could easily be adapted for upper divisions to explore the biological and biochemical basis underlying various risk factors.
The Unfortunate Nurse: A Case Study of Dengue Fever and Social Policy Karen M. Aguirre, Coastal Carolina University, Conway, SC Teaching Notes for “The Unfortunate Nurse”	Based on an actual incident in which dengue virus was transmitted by an accidental needlestick, this case study introduces students to “emerging pathogens” and other concepts in parasitology, immunology, epidemiology, public policy, and science writing. Students also read a primary paper and learn about two modern techniques widely used in medical and research settings (i.e., EIA and Taqman RT-PCR). The case is suitable for biology, general education biology, cell biology, microbiology, immunology, and science and public policy courses.
Streams of Coal or Streams of Death? A Toxicology Case Study Linda Niedziela, Elon University Teaching Notes for “Streams of Coal or Streams of Death?”	Mary Beth was raised in Western Pennsylvania, an area where thousands of abandoned coal mines have led to extensive contamination of streams and associated ground waters. Aquatic life has clearly suffered, but the health effects on people living along the waterways have not been so clear. In working through this interrupted case study, students consider the biological consequences for Mary Beth’s family by analyzing selected research articles. Originally developed for an upper level toxicology course, it would also be appropriate for a cancer biology course and could easily be adapted for a course in science and society or environmental studies.
The Medicinal Use of Marijuana: An Intimate Debate Case Clyde Freeman Herreid and Kristie DuRei, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Medicinal Use of Marijuana”	Whether marijuana should be legalized for medicinal purposes has been hotly contested for decades. The claims, counter-claims, issues, and judgments involved in this high profile controversy make it an excellent candidate for “intimate debate.” While similar to traditional debating formats and ground-rules, the method of intimate debate has important differences. There is no audience, each student argues each side of the issue seated across from their opponents in pairs, and the session concludes with opposing teams reaching consensus. This case, developed for the intimate debate format, is suitable for any class where medical and social issues of science are discussed; depending upon the sophistication that the instructor expects, it can be used in any classroom setting from high school to professional schools such as nursing and pharmacy.
Emily and Dr. Haskins: Classroom Expectations, Pragmatics, and Clinical Acumen Susan Behrens and Linda Carozza, Marymount Manhattan College Teaching Notes for “Emily and Dr. Haskins”	This case study on clinical practice, preparation, and acumen follows the story of Emily, an intelligent, hard working, and motivated student who yet encounters difficulties in the clinical fieldwork component of her senior seminar. A follow-up section of the case switches to the perspective of Dr. Haskins, Emilys supervisor in the clinic, who sees in Emily a student ill-prepared to deal with clients. Students read the case study and discuss a series of open-ended questions which explore various aspects of performing and supervising clinical fieldwork. The case can be used in introductory survey courses in the allied health field or education, with advanced students about to start their fieldwork, or with students finishing graduate work and about to become supervisors themselves.
MDR Tuberculosis: A Case Study for Non-Science Majors Focused on Social Justice Katayoun Chamany, Eugene Lang College of the New School University Teaching Notes for “MDR Tuberculosis”	In this case on multi-drug resistant (MDR) tuberculosis students consider ways in which to preserve health as a human right without subjecting already marginalized communities susceptible to the disease to further discrimination. Students learn about the science behind TB diagnostics and current treatment protocols as well as the political and social history of TB outbreaks and the development of MDR TB. The case makes use of video clips, news stories, public health press releases and reports, and other secondary and primary literature.
The Case of Baby Joe: Chronic Infections in an Infant Kristen L.W. Walton, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill Teaching Notes for “The Case of Baby Joe”	This interrupted case study follows the declining health of an infant who suffers from recurrent infections and finally is diagnosed with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). The case was developed for use in an undergraduate upper-level immunology course to supplement discussion of B and T cell development and the generation of antibody diversity. It could also be modified for use in a genetics class, with emphasis on the molecular aspects of RAG-mediated recombination and the inheritance patterns of the disease, or a pathophysiology class, with emphasis on the physiology underlying the symptoms.
Amanda’s Absence: Should Vioxx Be Kept Off the Market? Dan Johnson, Wake Forest University Teaching Notes for “Amanda’s Absence”	When chronic pain forces a top student to withdraw from college, biology instructor Dr. Sharpe learns that medications (in this case, Vioxx) may be removed from the market for many reasons, including safety concerns. As the case unfolds, students learn how the FDA balances drug safety against medical needs. As written, the case is appropriate for a non-majors course. It could also be adapted for use in a more advanced course in cell biology, pharmacology, or biochemistry, or modified to explore statistical analysis, specific analytical methods used for risk/benefit analysis, or bioethical issues.
The 1st New Disease of the 21st Century Otto Sanchez, University of Ontario Institute of Technology Teaching Notes for “The 1st New Disease of the 21st Century”	This case study uses a PowerPoint-driven approach combined with role-playing to present the epidemiology and pathophysiology of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Students learn about the etiology and pathophysiology of the disease, then argue different health professional perspectives on a plan of action for dealing with its consequences. Developed for a pathophysiology course for undergraduates, the case could also be used in a microbiology course or in a course in public or international health.
The Case of Eric, Lou Gehrig’s Disease, and Stem Cell Research Elizabeth R. McCain, Muhlenberg College Teaching Notes for “The Case of Eric, Lou Gehrig’s Disease, and Stem Cell Research”	Thirty-one-year-old Eric has begun to show signs of the debilitating and fatal neuromuscular disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Students follow Eric as he is examined by his physician and then a specialist, undergoes a series of tests, and eventually is given the devastating prognosis. He is also given the news that a group of prominent scientists has begun human trials with embryonic stem cell therapy, which may offer a possible cure for his condition, and that he can participate in the experiment if he wishes. Students research and then prepare oral presentations on the perspectives of a variety of experts Eric might wish to consult as he weighs the science and ethics of his decision.
A Case of Seasonal Affective Disorder David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of Seasonal Affective Disorder” A Case of a Pheochromocytoma David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of a Pheochromocytoma” A Case of Diabetes Insipidus David F. Dean, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “A Case of Diabetes Insipidus”	These three short medical case studies explore topics in anatomy and physiology. In each we are introduced to a person suffering from a particular disorder or disease. Students read about the symptoms and then answer a set of directed questions designed to teach facts and principles using reference books, textbooks, the Internet, and each other as sources of information.
Split My Brain: A Case Study of Seizure Disorder and Brain Function Julia Omarzu, Loras College Teaching Notes for “Split My Brain”	This case study involves a couple deciding whether or not their son should undergo brain surgery to treat a severe seizure disorder. In examining this dilemma, students apply knowledge of brain anatomy and function. They also learn about brain scanning techniques and discuss the plasticity of the brain. The case was written for an introductory psychology course, but could be adapted for any course that covers brain anatomy, neurological disorders, or rehabilitation therapies.
Sometimes Less is Better: The Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism Angela Wisniewski, University at Buffalo, Thuy Nguyen, University of Southern California, and David Newberger, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Sometimes Less is Better”	Ed Cramer is a 47-year-old mechanical engineer who is being treated for venous thromboembolism. He was 45 when he first developed a blood clot, in the lower part of his left leg, and had to be hospitalized for five days. A year later he developed a second blood clot, which almost killed him. This case study, appropriate for graduate-level courses in medicine and pharmacy, explores the physiology and treatment of venous thromboembolism, a condition that kills 60,000 people each year in the United States.
A Need for Needles: Acupuncture—Does it Really Work? Sarah G. Stonefoot and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “A Need for Needles”	In this case students evaluate information about the use of acupuncture and consider the possibilities of alternative therapies at the same time questioning their effectiveness. To complete the case, students collect information from Internet sources and journal publications, with an emphasis on carefully evaluating the credibility of information they collect.
Not Just Another Day at the Beach: Decision-making and the Treatment of Malignant Melanoma Karen T. Lee, University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown Teaching Notes for “Not Just Another Day at the Beach”	Students read about a case of melanoma that occurred over 10 years ago and then discuss issues faced by cancer patients and their families in making difficult medical decisions. Because the case presented is 10 years old, changes in the way intractable cancers like melanoma are diagnosed and treated can also be explored.
The 2000-Meter Row: A Case Study in Performance Anxiety Douglas Post, Ohio State University Teaching Notes for “The 2000-Meter Row”	This case is based on another case in our collection, “The 2000-Meter Row: A Case in Homeostasis,” which emphasized the metabolic, respiratory, and cardiac responses of a young athlete competing in a championship rowing event. In this modified version, the same event is viewed in a new light to explore the psychological ramifications of the stressful competition.
Kate-Tastrophy: A Case Study in Brain Death Rosemary Martin, Australian National University Teaching Notes for “Kate-Tastrophy”	In this interrupted case, students examine the concept of unconsciousness and develop an understanding of how clinicians diagnose death. Developed for a freshman course in human biology, the case focuses on brain death but raises related issues, including organ donation. With some modifications, the case could be used in a neurobiology or psychology course, or in a philosophy or ethics course.
The Case of the Crying Baby: Surgical vs. Medical Management Kari Mergenhagen, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Case of the Crying Baby”	The parents of a six-week-old baby girl know there is something seriously wrong with their child, but it takes a number of frustrating visits to the pediatrician before they finally get a correct diagnosis. Once they do, the parents must decide whether they want to seek a surgical solution or rely on a course of medical treatment for their daughter. Best suited for classes in pharmacology, nursing, or medicine, this case could also be used in a basic biology or anatomy course.
Abracadabra: Magic Johnson and Anti-HIV Treatments Brian J. Rybarczyk, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill Teaching Notes for “Abracadabra”	This case introduces students to HIV, its life cycle, treatment, and problems associated with treatment options. The case, which incorporates critical thinking skills, active learning, self-directed study, and peer-to-peer learning, was developed for use in an undergraduate upper-level biology course entitled “The Molecular Basis of Disease.” It could also be used in an immunology class, a molecular evolution class, or a general biology class to introduce viruses.
A Healthy Retirement? Ann Henninger, Wartburg College Teaching Notes for “A Healthy Retirement?”	Nancy has been looking forward to her retirement and a chance to entertain and travel with her husband Jim. But she hasn’t been feeling well. She’s often tired, and recently she’s been experiencing a burning sensation in her lower chest as well as nausea and difficulty breathing. This case was designed for an introductory human biology, anatomy and physiology, or health and wellness course. Its overall purpose is to identify some healthy and not-so-healthy lifestyle choices and the consequences of those choices. It also serves to demonstrate that men and women suffering from the same disease often experience different symptoms.
The Chemistry of Cooley’s Anemia Christopher T. Bailey, Wells College, and Mohammad Mahroof-Tahir, St. Cloud State University Teaching Notes for “The Chemistry of Cooley’s Anemia”	In this case, two young parents learn that their child is suffering from the genetic disorder thalassemia. Treatment requires a lifetime commitment to whole blood transfusion and chelation therapy, both of which must be administered on a daily to weekly basis. Students read the case, answer a series of questions, and then decide how they would treat the child if they were the parents. The case was developed to introduce students to the role of metal ions and coordination chemistry in biological systems, and would be appropriate for courses in biochemistry, molecular biology, bioinorganic chemistry, and bioethics, among others.
Eyes Without a Face: Stem Cell Research and Corneal Implants Kari Mergenhagen, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Eyes Without a Face”	Although Lucy was blinded in an accident as a very young child, she has never given up hope that one day she might see again. So, when her ophthalmologist tells her about a study being conducted at the University Medical Center that might help her regain some sight, she’s eager to sign on. This case, which explores the use of adult stem cells and amniotic membranes to restore vision after traditional transplants have failed, is appropriate for students of biology, physiology, and health-related fields.
Woe to That Child: A Case of Cystic Fibrosis Dayton J. Ford, St. Louis College of Pharmacy Teaching Notes for “Woe to That Child”	The Horowitz’s son Alvin has had a chronic cough and diarrhea for almost a week, and he’s wheezing a lot more than they think is normal for a child with a cold, which is what their family pediatrician has told them Alvin has. But the pediatric pulmonologist on duty in the emergency room where they take Alvin tells them their son is suffering from something much more serious than a cold. This case study on cystic fibrosis was developed for second-year pharmacy students to help them tie together elements of cell physiology, osmosis and tonicity, and membrane transport processes.
How a Cancer Trial Ended in Betrayal Ye Chen-Izu, University of Maryland School of Medicine Teaching Notes for “How a Cancer Trial Ended in Betrayal”	In this case study, students learn about the complexities and issues associated with clinical trials. After reading a newspaper story about a fraudulently conducted clinical trial involving a treatment for skin cancer, students simulate their own small-scale “clinical trial” in class. The simulation involves a secret breaching of a blind test and manipulation of data to favor a positive effect for a particular proprietary drug. As part of the simulation, students examine “before” and "after” photographs of skin lesions from “patients.”
Not an Old Person’s Disease Jennifer Miskowski and Anne Galbraith, University of Wisconsin—La Crosse Teaching Notes for “Not an Old Person’s Disease”	Judy, 20 years old, fair-haired and fair-skinned, covets the kind of suntan her friend Mariah seems to be able to get effortlessly while all Judy has to show for the hours she spends broiling in the sun is a bad sunburn. While sunbathing one day Judy notices that a mole on her leg has started to itch. Not only that, it looks different. She goes to her doctor, who recommends a biopsy to determine if the mole is malignant ot benign. The overall goal of this case is to introduce students to the genetic basis of cancer development while teaching them about melanoma.
Sometimes it is All in the Genes Anne Galbraith and David Howard, University of Wisconsin—La Crosse Teaching Notes for “Sometimes it is All in the Genes”	This case introduces students to the scientific and ethical issues surrounding the genetic disorder, cystic fibrosis. Nancy, five months pregnant, agrees to a routine genetic test that indicates she carries the mutation for the fatal disease. She convinces her husband to get tested and discovers that he too is a carrier. Knowing there is a 25 percent chance their unborn child may have the disease, they must decide what to do.
Wake-Up Call Lisa A. Rubin and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Wake-Up Call”	The main character of this case is Denise, who we first meet in the early morning hours as she wakes up in a cold sweat, gasping for breath. But it’s her husband, Jeremy, who has been diagnosed with heart disease, not her. What’s going on? In this interrupted case study, in which the other main character is Denise’s heart, who we get to know through a series of “interior” monologues, students learn about the risk factors, symptoms, and consequences of a heart attack.
Genetic Testing and Breast Cancer: Is a Little Knowledge a Dangerous Thing? Charlotte R. Zales, Moravian College, and Joseph C. Colosi, DeSales University Teaching Notes for “Genetic Testing and Breast Cancer”	In this dilemma case, the central character, Kathy, must decide whether or not to be tested for known mutations in the breast cancer genes. Students assume the roles of members of Kathy’s book club and, using a jigsaw technique, explore the advantages and disadvantages of genetic testing.
Stem Cells: Promises to Keep? Lauren E. Yaich, University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Teaching Notes for “Stem Cells”	Samantha and her husband Brad have two children, conceived with the help of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments. After viewing a TV program on stem cells and their potential medical uses, Samantha is convinced that they should donate the remaining frozen embryos they have to medical research, an idea Brad strongly objects to. The case teaches about stem cells and their medical applications as well as the ethical dilemmas posed by their use.
Is It a Lemon or a Lyme? A Case Study on the Decision to Vaccinate or Not Kate Rittenhouse-Olson, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Is It a Lemon or a Lyme?”	This multi-part dilemma case was designed for a junior level immunology course. It could also be used in a microbiology or bacteriology course where the emphasis is on treatment as well as disease. Although the case revolves around a particular microbe that causes Lyme disease, the central question is “Should a person get vaccinated given the associated risks and benefits?”
Selecting the Perfect Baby: The Ethics of “Embryo Design” Julia Omarzu, Loras College Teaching Notes for “Selecting the Perfect Baby”	This dilemma case, originally developed for a course in developmental psychology, is based on the true story of Jack and Lisa Nash, whose daughter Molly was born with a rare genetic disorder, Fanconi anemia. By having another child with specific genetic markers, the Nashes hoped to cure Molly using stem cells from the new baby’s umbilical cord blood. Students learn about developmental disorders and consider the ethical issues of genetic manipulation and fertility treatments.
A Bad Reaction: A Case Study in Immunology James A. Hewlett, Finger Lakes Community College Teaching Notes for “A Bad Reaction”	This case involves the transfer of a peanut allergy to a patient who received a combined kidney and liver transplant from a donor who had died from an allergic reaction to peanuts. In addition to illustrating the various roles of immune cells, the physiology of anaphylaxis, and the function of antibodies in immune physiology, the case explores concepts related to histocompatibilities, organ donation, and organ rejection. The case is appropritae for use in a course in human physiology, a combined course in human anatomy and physiology, or an introductory course in immunology.
Morgan: A Case of Diabetes Lisa Rubin and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Morgan: A Case of Diabetes”	The overall objective of this case is to teach students about the causes and effects of Type 2 diabetes by working through the various options available to a young Native American woman suffering from the disease. This case can be used in a variety of settings, including nutrition classrooms, herbal drug courses, physiology courses, medical schools, nursing schools, pharmacy schools, diabetes workshops, and even weight loss clinics.
Andrea: The Death of a Diabetic Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Andrea: The Death of a Diabetic”	In chronicling the life and death of a woman who developed diabetes as a teenager, this case study explores such basic science topics as metabolism, hormones, cell receptors, eye anatomy, and immunology as well as issues in nutrition, exercise, stem cell research, transplantation, drug delivery systems, genetic engineering, and health care.
Does a One-Size Drug Dose Fit All? Kathleen Boje, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Does a One-Size Drug Dose Fit All?”	The purpose of this case study is to make students aware that some patients may require individualized drug dosing regimens based on a variety of patient variables. It was developed for an introductory pharmaceutical sciences course but would be suitable for other students with a biological, biomedical, health sciences, or chemistry/medicinal chemistry background.
Osteoporosis: Marissa, Jeremy and Eleanor Lisa Rubin, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Osteoporosis”	This directed case study focuses on the physiology of bone homeostasis and methods of prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. One of the overall purposes of the case is to show students that osteoporosis is not simply a disease that afflicts elderly women. Three scenarios ar presented profiling three people: Marissa, a petite 15-year-old who has just learned that her 55-year-old grandmother has osteoporosis; Jeremey, a lanky 19-year-old college sophomore who recently has become interested in weight-lifting and is thinking about using steroids to bulk up; and Eleanor, a 45-year-old woman considering hormone replacement therapy mainly to prevent osteroporosis. The case is appropriate for use in an introductory nutrition course, a physiology course, a pathophysiology course, or a general education course focusing on the human body and disease.
Amber’s Secret Lisa M. Rubin and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Amber’s Secret”	This problem-based case focuses on the female menstrual cycle and early stages of pregnancy of an unwed teenager. Working in small groups, students identify the learning issues for each part of the story and research answers to their questions. They are then given more of the case to evaluate. The cycle of analysis, information seeking, and sharing is repeated for each stage of the case. The case can be used in numerous settings including general health, biology, and sociology classes or in more specialized courses such as physiology, endocrinology, nursing, medicine, human development, social services, or counseling.
The Case of the Newborn Nightmare Andrea Wade, Broome Community College Teaching Notes for “The Case of the Newborn Nightmare”	Three newborns left in the care of Dr. Matthew Mitchell have developed a mysterious rash. Under increasing pressure from hospital administrators and distressed parents, he must diagnose and treat the afflicted infants. Students are given discrete pieces of information in this interrupted case study and asked to find additional information outside of class to solve the mystery. The case was developed for use in a clinically oriented microbiology course for nursing, allied health, and pre-medical students.
All That Glitters May Not Be Gold: A Troublesome Case of Transgenic Rice Gerald F. Combs, Jr., Cornell University Teaching Notes for “All That Glitters May Not Be Gold”	In this decision case, a congressional staffer must weigh a number of competing concerns and issues, including popular reactions to genetically modified organisms, in deciding how to present information to her boss, an influential congressman drafting legislation to support agricultural research. The case explores the social and biological issues surrounding micronutrient malnutrition, including deficiencies of several vitamins and essential minerals, especially iron, iodine, and vitamin A, which affect at least one-third of the world’s population, primarily in developing nations.
A Case Study of Memory Loss in Mice Michael S. Hudecki, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “A Case Study of Memory Loss in Mice”	This discussion case explores the scientific process involved in implementing an animal model in the study of Alzheimer’s disease. Students read a short paragraph describing a study in which the brains of “trained” mice were injected with beta-amyloid fragments, which subsequently caused them to forget their tasks. The paragraph is a very short New York Times story reporting on an experimental study originally published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Based on the short description provided, students are asked to identify relevant components of the scientific method (problem, method, results, and conclusions). The case is suitable for a wide variety of science majors and non-majors courses.
To Vaccinate or Not to Vaccinate: That is the Question Caren Shapiro, D’Youville College Teaching Notes for “To Vaccinate or Not to Vaccinate”	This case study explores the issues surrounding the necessity and consequences of vaccination. The case was prompted by a newspaper story about a couple who refused on religious grounds to have their son vaccinated even though vaccination is a requirement for admission to the public schools.
Dr. Collins and the Case of the Mysterious Infection Paula P. Lemons and Sarah Huber, Duke University Teaching Notes for “Dr. Collins”	In this case, Dr. Collins must diagnose and prescribe treatment for a young patient with a serious infection. Students receive pieces of the case in a progressive disclosure format and answer questions about bacterial infection, antibiotics, and antibiotic resistance.
The 2000-Meter Row: A Case in Homeostasis Nathan Strong, New Hampshire Technical Institute Teaching Notes for “The 2000-Meter Row”	The physically demanding sport of competitive rowing is the backdrop for this case about homeostatis in which students follow the physiological changes that occur in an athlete competing in a 2000-meter race. The case was developed for use in a second-year anatomy and physiology course. It would also be appropriate in exercise and sports science classes.
Ellen’s Choice: Can Alternative/Complementary Medicine Make a Difference? Elizabeth Harper, Pacific College of Oriental Medicine Teaching Notes for “Ellen’s Choice”	This case encourages students to explore various aspects of alternative and complementary medicine that might be helpful in treating a woman who is suffering from scoliosis. The case was developed for use in a variety of settings, ranging from an introductory anatomy and physiology course to a general health class where there is an interest in alternative/complementary medicine.
The Case of Ruth James: A Woman in Excellent Health Christine M. Catney, University of Iowa Teaching Notes for “The Case of Ruth James”	In this case designed for pharmacy students, an elderly woman apparently “in excellent health” suddenly becomes ill and health care practitioners must determine the cause.
The Haemophilus Vaccine: A Victory for Immunologic Engineering Arne Tärnvik, Umeå University, Sweden Teaching Notes for “The Haemophilus Vaccine”	This case study focuses on a young mother whose child attends a day care center where there has been an outbreak of bacterial menigitis. The case explores the need for health care workers to provide relevant medical information and advice to patients, parents, and the community.
A Difficult Pregnancy: A Nurse Practitioner Looks for Answers Karol Rejman, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “A Difficult Pregnancy”	This case, developed for graduate family nurse practitioner students, presents some of the patient management issues that health care workers face.
Sickle Cell Anemia Debra Stamper, King’s College Teaching Notes for “Sickle Cell Anemia”	In this case study on sickle cell anemia, students are introduced to some of the key investigators responsible for determining the molecular basis of the disease and learn about the functioning of erythrocytes as well as the notion that changes in the environment can influence the functioning of cells.
A Right to Her Genes Susannah Gal, State University of New York at Binghamton, and Jessie W. Klein, Middlesex Community College Teaching Notes for “A Right to Her Genes”	In this true story, students examine the case of a woman with a family predisposition to cancer who is considering genetic testing, study various aspects of DNA testing, and determine how to counsel the woman.
Is That Pill You’re Taking Safe? A Case Study About the Drug Development Process Janis G. Hammer, Delaware Valley College Teaching Notes for “Is That Pill You’re Taking Safe?”	This dilemma cased is based on the actual development, FDA approval, and market withdrawal of dexfenfluramine, a drug used in the late nineties in combination with phentermine for weight loss.
“Into Thin Air” A Case Study in Physiology Jennifer Lundmark, California State University, Sacramento Teaching Notes for “Into Thin Air”	As an exhausted climbing expedition ascends a steep cliff, one climber in particular experiences severe difficulty breathing and quickly becomes the focus of this case study in which students are asked to assess the physiological changes that occur at high altitudes.
Childbed Fever: A Nineteenth-Century Mystery Christa Colyer, Wake Forest University Teaching Notes for “Childbed Fever”	This case, which teaches students about the scientific method, provides a brief, factual account of the pioneering work of Ignaz Semmelweis and his efforts to remedy the problem of childbed fever in mid-19th century Europe.
Needles and Pins: A Case Study in the Management of Occupational Exposure to Percutaneous Injuries Lynn D. Austin, Western Kentucky University Teaching Notes for “Needles and Pins”	This case, designed for medical students, dental students, and dental hygiene students, covers the steps involved in preventing and responding to accidental needlesticks.
A Search for the Right Answer: Fetal Tissue Research and Parkinson’s Disease Anne Fourtner, Charles Fourtner, and Clyde Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “A Search for the Right Answer”	In this role-playing case study on Parkinson’s disease, students learn about brain injury and brain repair mechanisms, the physical and psychological effects of a degenerative disease on a patient and her family, the ethical questions surrounding the use of fetal tissue in research programs, and the sociological implications of an aging population.
Kim Davis - Can A Genetic Disease Be Cured? A Mother’s Dilemma Michael S. Hudecki, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Kim Davis - Can A Genetic Disease Be Cured?”	In this discussion case, parents must decide whether or not to enroll their sons in an experimental treatment program designed to alleviate the symptoms of muscular dystrophy. The case explores the genetics and physiology of the disease as well as the issues involved with pharmaceutical research.
Directed Case Study: The Death of Baby Pierre - A Genetic Mystery Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo	This directed case study on a genetic disorder was developed for an exam on genetics in a course in general biology.
AIDS and the Duesberg Phenomenon: A Problem-Based Learning Case Study Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo	This case, taught using problem-based learning, examines a controversy over HIV and its relationship to AIDS.
"Bad Blood:” A Case Study of the Tuskegee Syphilis Project Ann W. Fourtner, Charles R. Fourtner, and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Bad Blood”	The ethics of human experimentation are explored in this case about the infamous syphilis studies performed at the Tuskegee Institute from the 1930s to the 1960s.
Microbiology
ELVIS Meltdown! Microbiology Concepts of Culture, Growth, and Metabolism Richard C. Stewart, Ann C. Smith and Patricia A. Shields, University of Maryland—College Park, MD Teaching Notes for “ELVIS Meltdown!”	In this interrupted case study, students assume the role of a microbiologist working at a chemical company that makes polyurethane. When a collection unit designed to pick up extraterrestrial (ET) samples (nicknamed ELVIS) returns to earth, much of the polyurethane material had been degraded. Using discreet bits of information given in several parts, the students are asked to analyze the samples and to “isolate and characterize” the ET microbes that may be responsible for the polyurethane degradation. The case was developed for an introductory general microbiology course for biology and non-biology majors.
An End to Ulcers? A Case Study in the Scientific Method Kristina Hannam, State University of New York—Geneseo, and Rodney Hagley, University of North Carolina—Wilmington Teaching Notes for “An End to Ulcers?”	This clicker case leads students through a demonstration of the scientific method by following the story of two Australian biomedical scientists’ discovery of the cause of human gastric ulcers. During the course of the case, students have the opportunity to see how the researchers followed up an unusual observation by applying the steps of the scientific method in support of their new hypothesis for the cause of this disease. Students practice the scientific method themselves by proposing their own hypotheses, identifying methods for testing the hypotheses, and predicting the results of experimental tests. Developed for a large introductory biology course, this case could also be used in an undergraduate microbiology course for pre-nursing majors to introduce the contemporary theory that many chronic medical conditions have an infectious origin. Although designed for use with personal response systems (clickers) and PowerPoint, the case can be adapted for use without these technologies.
Closing the Gap: Antiretroviral Therapy for the Developing World Robin Pals-Rylaarsdam, Trinity Christian College Teaching Notes for “Closing the Gap”	In this problem-based learning/role playing case, students apply their knowledge of the biology of HIV/AIDS and antiretroviral therapy to developing foreign aid policy for the HIV/AIDS crisis in sub-Saharan Africa. The case was developed for a non-majors course in human biology. It has also been used in a microbiology course for pre-nursing students and in an upper-level microbiology course for biology majors.
Between the Living and the Dead Kari Mergenhagen, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Between the Living and the Dead”	As Jen pores over her introductory biology textbook, she falls asleep and enters a nightmarish world in which bacteria and viruses dwarf human beings. This engagingly written case explores the differences between viruses and bacteria while teaching about the basic components and “life” cycle of a T-even bacteriophage. The case includes a follow-up assignment in which students explore the risks and potential benefits of using bacteriophage to control bacterial disease. The case is appropriate for general biology and microbiology college courses as well as AP biology high school classes.
Fecal Coliforms in Antarctica Stephen Nold, University of Wisconsin-Stout Teaching Notes for “Fecal Coliforms in Antarctica”	In this interrupted case study, students explore the environmental consequences of Antarctic research as they design experiments to assess the impact of disposing untreated sewage from a research station into the ocean. Students review experimental methods to measure coliform bacteria, examine data, and decide what actions, if any, should be taken. Developed for a general microbiology course, the case could also be used in non-majors courses in science literacy, in which case the instructor would emphasize the process of data collection and analysis.
Nanobacteria: Are They or Aren’t They Alive? Merri Lynn Casem, California State University, Fullerton Teaching Notes for “Nanobacteria”	This case study draws upon two recently published conflicting research reports on the status of nanobacteria as living organisms to explore basic concepts related to the biological definition of life and the process of scientific investigation.
The Case of the Newborn Nightmare Andrea Wade, Broome Community College Teaching Notes for “The Case of the Newborn Nightmare”	Three newborns left in the care of Dr. Matthew Mitchell have developed a mysterious rash. Under increasing pressure from hospital administrators and distressed parents, he must diagnose and treat the afflicted infants. Students are given discrete pieces of information in this interrupted case study and asked to find additional information in textbooks and in lab to solve the mystery. The case was developed for use in a clinically oriented microbiology course for nursing, allied health, and pre-medical students.
To Vaccinate or Not to Vaccinate: That is the Question Caren Shapiro, D’Youville College Teaching Notes for “To Vaccinate or Not to Vaccinate”	This case study explores the issues surrounding the necessity and consequences of vaccination. The case was prompted by a newspaper story about a couple who refused on religious grounds to have their son vaccinated even though vaccination is a requirement for admission to the public schools.
Dr. Collins and the Case of the Mysterious Infection Paula P. Lemons and Sarah Huber, Duke University Teaching Notes for “Dr. Collins”	In the case, Dr. Collins must diagnose and prescribe treatment for a young patient with a serious infection. Students receive pieces of the case containing additional information in a progressive disclosure format and are asked to answer questions about bacterial infection, antibiotics, and antibiotic resistance.
Is Iron Fertilization Good for the Sea? LeLeng To, Goucher College Teaching Notes for “Is Iron Fertilization Good for the Sea?”	This case explores how human activities contribute to greenhouse effects and global warming and is appropriate for introductory biology, ecology, environmental biology, microbiology, and environmental microbiology classes as well as courses dealing with environmental policy.
*Microbial Pie, or What Did* You Feed the Neighbors?** Theresa Hornstein, Lake Superior College Teaching Notes for “Microbial Pie, or What Did You Feed the Neighbors?”	This case uses a story of microbial contamination, combined with lab experiments, to teach skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and experimental design and analysis.
AIDS and the Duesberg Phenomenon: A Problem-Based Learning Case Study Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo	This case, taught using problem-based learning, examines a controversy over HIV and its relationship to AIDS.
The Benign Hamburger Graham Peaslee, Hope College, Juliette Lantz, Siena College, and Mary M. Walczak, St. Olaf College Teaching Notes for “The Benign Hamburger”	In this dilemma case study, in which a restaurant chain must decide whether to use irradiated beef to protect its customers from E. coli, students are introduced to nuclear applications aside from those involving nuclear power generation and weapons.
Molecular Biology / Genetics
You Are Not the Mother of Your Children Stephen R. Cronin, Ave Maria University Teaching Notes for “You Are Not the Mother of Your Children”	This case is based on a true story of a woman whose children were almost taken from her because her DNA profile indicated that she was not the mother of her children. The interrupted case study follows the woman, her lawyer, and a research biologist as they try to determine why her DNA profile does not match her children’s profiles. In the course of learning about this very unusual case, students review the normal process of reproduction and genetic transmission in humans, form and evaluate hypotheses about the case, and are challenged to think about the possible implications of abnormal transmission of genes.
Why Is Patrick Paralyzed? Maureen Knabb, West Chester University Teaching Notes for “Why Is Patrick Paralyzed?”	This clicker case introduces students to a rare genetic disease in which an enzyme is deficient in a critical metabolic pathway—the first step in aerobic respiration. This case challenges students to make connections between energy production, enzymes, and metabolic diseases. Students are exposed to a real life story that serves as a basis for discussing the uses of energy-rich molecules and the importance of complex metabolic pathways catalyzed by protein enzymes. Overall, students should appreciate the importance of each step in a metabolic pathway and the side effects as well as treatments that can emerge from discovering the underlying enzyme deficiency.
The Physiology of a Neurodegenerative Disease: Huntington’s Disease Christine M. Fleet, Emory and Henry College Teaching Notes for “The Physiology of a Neurodegenerative Disease”	In this case, a young woman learns that her uncle has been diagnosed with Huntington’s disease (HD). She talks with her fellow graduate students to try to better understand the physiology of the disorder, along with the medical and personal implications for the patient and his caregivers. Students review scientific papers to help them address a series of guided questions about the symptoms and care; the roles of membrane potential, neurotransmitters and cell death; and experimental approaches to understanding HD. The case encourages students to integrate ideas from a range of biology disciplines to develop a conceptual framework for what is currently known about HD. Originally written for an upper-level college physiology course, this case could also be appropriate for classes on cell biology, molecular biology or genetics.
The Case of the Druid Dracula: Clicker Case Version Norris Armstrong, University of Georgia, Terry Platt, University of Rochester, and Peggy Brickman, University of Georgia Teaching Notes for “The Case of the Druid Dracula”	This is a modified version of another case in the collection, “The Case of the Druid Dracula,” that uses PowerPoint and clicker questions. The story revolves around an actual murder committed in Wales that displayed indications of the occult. Students learn about DNA structure and replication and how scientists have adapted this process for use in experimentation and forensic analysis (Polymerase Chain Reaction and DNA fingerprinting). The students then use this knowledge to identify possible suspects in the crime.
Colon Cancer: A Case of Genetic Bad Luck? Anne M. Casper, Duke University Teaching Notes for “Colon Cancer”	In this case, developed for an introductory genetics class, students meet a woman whose family has a history of colon cancer. Students create a pedigree based on information from the case and discuss what it means to be genetically predisposed to cancer. Using bioinformatics tools from the NCBI database, students identify and examine the mutation in the woman’s APC gene that results in genetic predisposition to colon cancer. Finally, they investigate the biological function of the APC protein to understand why this mutation contributes to the development of cancer and determine whether APC is a proto-oncogene, tumor suppressor gene, or genome stability gene.
Cross-Dressing or Crossing-Over? Sex Testing of Women Athletes Maureen Knabb, West Chester University and Joan Sharp, Simon Fraser University Teaching Notes for “Cross-Dressing or Crossing-Over?”	This clicker case introduces students to the concepts of meiosis and crossing-over within the context of gender testing in female athletes. The “frame” for the case is the story of track athlete Santhi Soundararajan, whose sex was called into question by officials at the 2006 Asian Games. Through Santhi’s story and the lecture material and questions presented in class, students learn about the importance of meiosis in gamete formation, fertilization, and sex determination. Developed for a one-semester, large lecture, introductory biology class for both majors and non-majors, the case would also be appropriate in an anatomy and physiology or endocrinology course. Although designed for use with personal response systems (clickers) and PowerPoint, the case can be adapted for use without these technologies.
Living With Her Genes: Early Onset Familial Alzheimer’s Disease Lynne H. Gildensoph, The College of St. Catherine, Alice M. Stanford, University of the Virgin Islands, and Deborah D. Wygal, The College of St. Catherine Teaching Notes for “Living With Her Genes”	When a 30-year-old genetic counselor learns that her 38-year-old sister has developed early onset familial Alzheimer’s disease (EOFAD), a dominantly inherited disorder that afflicted her father and led to his death at age 42, she struggles with whether to undergo genetic testing and whether to have children. This interrupted case study in four parts examines the impact of genetic testing on both the individual and her family when there is no treatment or cure for a disease. The case covers principles of Mendelian inheritance as well as genetic and reproductive technologies such as gene tests, pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, and in vitro fertilization. It can be used in introductory biology courses for both majors and non-majors as well as adapted for more advanced courses in genetics and molecular biology.
Those Old Kentucky Blues: An Interrupted Case Study Celeste A. Leander, University of British Columbia, and Robert J. Huskey, University of Virginia Teaching Notes for “Those Old Kentucky Blues”	This interrupted case study begins with the construction of a pedigree following an initial encounter with a clan of “blue people.” After constructing a pedigree, students decide whether the condition (methemoglobinemia) is a heritable trait. Students are then exposed to a different perspective of this condition and have to re-evaluate the inheritance pattern. This case study was written for a first year honors course in general biology. It could be modified for most general science majors’ biology, genetics, biochemistry, and cell biology courses.
My Dog is Broken! A Case Study in Cell Signaling Lynn Diener, Edgewood College, Madison, WI Teaching Notes for “My Dog is Broken”	Cell signaling is one of the more difficult concepts for students to understand in their study of cell biology. To help students better understand the process of cell signaling— from reception to cellular response—a fairly simple signal pathway is used as an example in this case study in which students read a series of instant messages and emails between two friends trying to determine what is causing erectile dysfunction in a prize winning dog. The case was developed for use in an introductory biology course, but could also be used in a cell biology course.
Giving Birth to Someone Else’s Children? A Case of Disputed Maternity Jessica Hutchison, Cameron University Teaching Notes for “Giving Birth to Someone Else’s Children?”	Most students have heard about situations in which the paternity of a child is questioned, but maternity? This case was designed for introductory biology students and asks them to develop hypotheses to explain how a mother cannot be genetically related to two of her three sons. Through an interrupted, progressive disclosure format, students reject hypotheses and form new ones as data is revealed. This case involves concepts in genetics, inheritance and the formation of pedigrees. At the conclusion, students are asked to think about the moral, ethical and legal implications of the mother’s rare condition.
A Sickeningly Sweet Baby Boy: A Case Study on Recessive Inheritance in Inbred Populations Jacqueline Washington, Nyack College, and Anne Zayaitz, Kutztown University Teaching Notes for “A Sickeningly Sweet Baby Boy”	When a newborn develops symptoms eerily similar to those of an older sibling who died shortly after birth, his Mennonite parents are understandably alarmed. They soon discover that their son has Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD), a recessively inherited metabolic disorder. This case explores the genetics of the disease and the ultimate dilemma of treatment options. Developed for an introductory nonmajors biology course, the case can also be used in other science or health related courses such as human genetics and biochemistry.
Do You Really Know What You’re Eating? A Case Study on Genetically Modified Foods Wayne Shew, Birmingham-Southern College, and Mary Celeste Reese, Mississippi State University Teaching Notes for “Do You Really Know What You’re Eating?”	Starting from a fictional “news” report about an apparent allergic reaction to a taco tainted by genetically modified corn, students consider some of the techniques and procedures used in modern molecular genetics and microbiology as well as some of the issues associated with genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Originally designed for role-play and PowerPoint assignments, suggestions for a shortened version are also provided. Suitable for a general microbiology course, the case could also be used in an introductory molecular biology course with appropriate modifications. Various levels of coverage of the topic of recombinant DNA are possible.
Tazswana’s Story: How Alternative mRNA Splicing Leads to Genetic Disease and Cure S. Catherine Silver Key, North Carolina Central University Teaching Notes for “Tazswanas Story”	While students easily grasp the concepts of gene mutation, their effect on protein function, and their association with disease states, the concept of RNA processing is often foreign and less easily understood. In this directed case study, students read about a little girl with β-thalassemia, a life-threatening disease. Through a series of increasingly complex activities, they learn how alternative pre-mRNA processing (splicing) has caused her disease and how gene therapy that targets the process may provide a cure. The case was developed for a junior-level genetics course, but could be modified for use in a cell, molecular genetics, or molecular biology course.
The Case of the Druid Dracula Peggy Brickman, University of Georgia Teaching Notes for “The Case of the Druid Dracula”	This case is based on a lurid crime featured on the BBC program Crimewatch in December 2001 that was solved thanks to forensic DNA analysis. Students learn how the structure of DNA and the mechanism used by cells to duplicate DNA were critical to the forensic analysis. They then determine the statistical validity of the forensic data in the same way a prosecutor would prepare the case for a courtroom. Written for an introductory biology course of 300+ students, the teaching notes for the case describe how students work in permanent small groups in a lecture hall setting using hand-held response systems (aka “clickers”) to collaboratively solve the case in class.
In Sickness and in Health: A Trip to the Genetic Counselor Barry Chess, Pasadena City College Teaching Notes for “In Sickness and in Health”	In this interrupted case study, Greg and Olga, a young couple planning a family, have decided to see a genetic counselor because of a family history of genetic disease. Students construct a pedigree from the information presented in the case, then on the basis of that determine if the couple are carriers for any recessive genetic diseases, and the likelihood of their passing those diseases on to their offspring. Students learn about the inheritance of single gene dominant, recessive, and sex-linked disorders as well as the significance of carrier frequency. Originally developed for use in a non-science major general biology course, the case has also been used in a non-science major human genetics course.
Which Little Piggy Went to Market? Bioinformatics and Meat Science Debra A. Meuler, Cardinal Stritch University Teaching Notes for “Which Little Piggy Went to Market?”	In this case, a scientist is contacted by a friend from a meat processing plant who is looking for a test that would enable him to determine the sex of the animals that contributed to a particular batch of meat. He needs to know because meat from uncastrated males (boars) imparts an unpleasant odor (boar taint) to pork products, something he wants to avoid. Developed for use in an introductory biology class, the case introduces students to basic genetics concepts, DNA structure, the technique of PCR, genetic databases, and the use of positive and negative controls during scientific investigations. The case could also be used in high school classes, especially as a tool for learning about (or reviewing) the scientific process as it requires students to develop hypotheses, design experiments, and analyze and interpret data.
“SNPs and snails and puppy dog tails, and that’s what people are made of ...”—A Case Study on Genome Privacy Debby Walser-Kuntz, Sarah Deel, and Susan Singer, Carleton College Teaching Notes for “SNPs and snails, etc. ”	In this case on genome privacy, students work together to research one of six assigned lobbying groups’ views in this area and then present their groups’ position before a mock meeting of a U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee as they consider voting on the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act. In working through the case, students learn about single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), common molecular biology techniques, and current legislation governing genome privacy. The case was developed for use in an introductory biology course entitled “Genes, Evolution, and Development.” It could be readily adapted for a genetics or molecular biology course.
The Case of the Tainted Taco Shells - General Edition The Case of the Tainted Taco Shells - Advanced Edition Ann Taylor, Wabash College Teaching Notes for “The Case of the ‘Tainted’ Taco Shells”	This case discusses some of the issues associated with the use of genetically modified plants, including ecological risks, resistance, and allergenicity. The General Edition emphasizes the basic biochemistry and scientific ethics issues associated with genetically modified foods. The Advanced Edition probes the same issues but includes more advanced questions regarding the biochemistry of how genetically modified plants work.
Two Peas in a Pod? A Case of Questionable Twins Paul Welsh, Singapore American School Teaching Notes for “Two Peas in a Pod?”	Based on an actual event, this case study focuses on some of the problems associated with reproductive technologies. It tells the story of the “Joneses,” who after in vitro fertilization treatment, discover that their fraternal twins are less similar than one would expect two brothers to be. Students work in teams to unravel the mystery using DNA profiling. Related issues that can be explored include the right to medical information, the implications of human error, and racism.
Salamander Superpowers: A Question of Regeneration Sarah Stonefoot, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Salamander Superpowers”	This case, developed for a course in human biology, provides students with a context for discussing stem cells and cloning by exploring regeneration in salamanders and the ethical as well as scientific and health-related issues of applying what scientists know about that natural process to humans. Students read the case and then answer questions about cell differentiation and regeneration as they explore the pros and cons of providing natural regeneration in humans versus stem cell transplants for wound and organ repair.
Bad Fish—General Biology Edition Bad Fish—Anatomy & Physiology Edition Bad Fish—Cell & Molecular Biology Edition James A. Hewlett, Finger Lakes Community College Teaching Notes for “Bad Fish”	The protagonist of this case study, Dr. Westwood, survives an accidental poisoning--not once, but twice. Students read about the incidences, applying what they learn in each part of the case to the later sections, and then design a drug to treat the neurotoxin poisoning described in the story. The General Biology Edition is designed for an introductory biology course. Its basic storyline and core objectives are carried over into an Anatomy & Physiology Edition and a Cell & Molecular Biology Edition, each with its own set of questions.
Abracadabra: Magic Johnson and Anti-HIV Treatments Brian J. Rybarczyk, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill Teaching Notes for “Abracadabra”	This case introduces students to HIV, its life cycle, treatments for HIV infection, and problems associated with treatment options. The case, which incorporates critical thinking skills, active learning, self-directed study, and peer-to-peer learning, was developed for use in an undergraduate upper-level biology course entitled "Molecular Basis of Disease.” It could also be used in an immunology class, a molecular evolution class, or a general biology class to introduce viruses.
Saving Superman: A Look into Stem Cell Research Lisa M. Rubin, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Saving Superman”	Using a combination of directed case method and role-playing in which students learn about their roles using the jigsaw technique, this case study teaches about the main concepts of stem cell research and therapy and the political and ethical issues surrounding these subjects. The case begins by describing the riding accident that left actor Christopher Reeve paralyzed from the shoulders down and ends by posing a final open-ended question that encourages student debate and discussion.
Cloning Man’s Best Friend Eric Przykuta, Lancaster Middle School Teaching Notes for “Cloning Man’s Best Friend”	The Cleaver family of television fame faces a dilemma—whether or not to clone their recently deceased dog Spot. Written for a high school introductory biology class, the case provides students with an opportunity to discuss animal cloning and its ethical implications. Students role-play the viewpoints of the father and mother, Jack and Grace Cleaver, and their son Ralphy as well as the dog Spot and debate the various positions on cloning.
Experimental Design and Statistical Analysis: Bt Corn, Lignin, and ANOVAs Eric Ribbens, Western Illinois University Teaching Notes for “Experimental Design and Statistical Analysis: Bt Corn, Lignin, and ANOVAs”	This case is based on a research paper about the lignin content of genetically modified corn published in the American Journal of Botany. Students are asked to analyze and discuss the paper, focusing on questions related to experimental design and interpretation and a critique of the statistical data presented. Developed for a plant ecology course and a biostatistics course, the case could be used in courses on plant anatomy, plant physiology, soil ecology, agriculture, or genetics.
Not An Old Person’s Disease Jennifer Miskowski and Anne Galbraith, University of Wisconsin—La Crosse Teaching Notes for “Not an Old Person’s Disease”	Judy, 20 years old, fair-haired and fair-skinned, covets the kind of suntan her friend Mariah seems to be able to get effortlessly while all Judy has to show for the hours she spends broiling in the sun is a bad sunburn. While sunbathing one day Judy notices that a mole on her leg has started to itch. Not only that, it looks different. She goes to her doctor, who recommends a biopsy to determine if the mole is malignant or benign. The overall goal of this case is to introduce students to the genetic basis of cancer development while teaching them about melanoma.
Sometimes it is All in the Genes Anne Galbraith and David Howard, University of Wisconsin—La Crosse Teaching Notes for “Sometimes it is All in the Genes”	This case introduces students to the scientific and ethical issues surrounding the genetic disorder, cystic fibrosis. Nancy, five months pregnant, agrees to a routine genetic test that indicates she carries the mutation for the fatal disease. She convinces her husband to get tested and discovers that he too is a carrier. Knowing there is a 25 percent chance their unborn child may have the disease, they must decide what to do.
Genetic Testing and Breast Cancer: Is a Little Knowledge a Dangerous Thing? Charlotte R. Zales, Moravian College, and Joseph C. Colosi, DeSales University Teaching Notes for “Genetic Testing and Breast Cancer”	In this dilemma case, the central character, Kathy, must decide whether or not to be tested for known mutations in the breast cancer genes. Students assume the roles of members of Kathy’s book club and, using a jigsaw technique, explore the advantages and disadvantages of genetic testing.
Stem Cells: Promises to Keep? Lauren E. Yaich, University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Teaching Notes for “Stem Cells”	Samantha and her husband Brad have two children, conceived with the help of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments. After viewing a TV program on stem cells and their potential medical uses, Samantha is convinced that they should donate the remaining frozen embryos they have to medical research, an idea Brad strongly objects to. The case teaches about stem cells and their medical applications as well as the ethical dilemmas posed by their use.
Bringing Back Baby Jason: To Clone or Not to Clone Jennifer Hayes-Klosteridis, University of Maryland, College Park Teaching Notes for “Bringing Back Baby Jason”	This dilemma case, designed for use in an undergraduate genetics course, explores the basic genetic concepts underlying the cloning process as well as the ethical, medical, political, economic, and religious issues surrounding human cloning. While the case presents a fictitious scenario, it is based on the story of Charleston attorney and former state delegate Mark Hunt and his wife Tracey, who privately funded human cloning after the death of their infant son Andrew.
Selecting the Perfect Baby: The Ethics of “Embryo Design” Julia Omarzu, Loras College Teaching Notes for “Selecting the Perfect Baby”	This dilemma case, originally developed for a course in developmental psychology, is based on the true story of Jack and Lisa Nash, whose daughter Molly was born with a rare genetic disorder, Fanconi anemia. By having another child with specific genetic markers, the Nashes hoped to cure Molly using stem cells from the new baby’s umbilical cord blood. Students learn about developmental disorders and consider the ethical issues of genetic manipulation and fertility treatments.
Gender: In the Genes or in the Jeans? A Case Study on Sexual Differentiation William J. Hoese, California State University Fullerton, Judith Gibber, Columbia University, and Bonnie Wood, University of Maine Presque Isle Teaching Notes for “Gender: In the Genes or in the Jeans?”	This case explores the biology of human sexual differentiation and its social and ethical ramifications. In working through the case, students learn how scientists use laboratory experiments on animals and “experiments of nature,” or conditions that occur naturally in humans, to help them understand human biology.
Sonic Hedgehog: Genetic Abnormalities and Tissue Donations By Lauren E. Yaich, University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Teaching Notes for “Sonic Hedgehog”	In this case study about a baby born with the genetic condition holoprosencephaly, students explore the “Sonic hedgehog” gene, signal transduction, and the ethics of body and tissue donation. The assignment involves students writing an informed consent document that explains the science behind this congenital abnormality. Designed an upper-level undergraduate biology course, the case could also be used in a cell biology, developmental biology, neurobiology, or other related upper-level course.
The “Lady” of Charleston: A Case of Wrongful Gender Assignment? Kim R. Finer, Kent State University/Stark Campus Teaching Notes for “Lady of Charleston”	This case uses the real story of Dawn Langley Simmons, who may have been misidentified as male at birth, to illustrate the developmental basis of human sexual dimorphism and how gender misidentification may occur. Students also consider the emotional, legal, and societal implications of gender misassignment and reassignment. The case could be used in a number of courses including physiology, endocrinology, developmental biology, general biology, and psychology.
Niños Desaparecidos: A Case Study About Genetics and Human Rights Katayoun Chamany, Eugene Lang College, New School University Teaching Notes for “Niños Desaparecidos”	This case is based on the experience of 50 children who were displaced during Argentina’s “dirty war” of the 1970s, underwent DNA and protein analysis, and subsequently were reunited with their biological families. Students consider not only the genetic evidence but also the moral and emotional dimensions of these children’s stories. much of the resource material is in Spanish as well as English.
Frankenfoods? The Debate Over Genetically Modified Crops Bill Rhodes, Clemson University, Maha M. Alkhazindar, Cairo University, and Nancy A. Schiller, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Frankenfoods”	This discussion case, in which a university research laboratory is vandalized by environmental activists opposed to genetic engineering, focuses on the science and ethics of genetically modified crops. Students consider both the risks and benefits of biotechnology and explore the positions of various stakeholders including environmentalists, conservationists, agricultural businesses, research scientists, and farmers. Originally written for a vegetable crops course, the case would be appropriate for a wide variety of courses in which biotechnology is discussed.
Sickle Cell Anemia Debra Stamper, King’s College Teaching Notes for “Sickle Cell Anemia”	In this case study on sickle cell anemia, students are introduced to some of the key investigators responsible for determining the molecular basis of the disease and learn about the functioning of erythrocytes as well as the notion that changes in the environment can influence the functioning of cells.
A Right to Her Genes Susannah Gal, State University of New York at Binghamton, and Jessie W. Klein, Middlesex Community College Teaching Notes for “A Right to Her Genes”	In this true story, students examine the case of a woman with a family predisposition to cancer who is considering genetic testing, study various aspects of DNA testing, and determine how to counsel the woman.
Seeds of Dissension: A Case Study in Patenting Genetic Material Elaine M. Schamber and Paul A. Hammond, Purdue University. Teaching Notes for “Seeds of Dissension”	A possible act of industrial espionage is the backdrop for this case, which introduces students to analytical techniques rountinely used routinely in most areas of biotechnology, including forensic science and paternity suits.
Torn at the Genes: One Family’s Debate Over Genetically Altered Plants Jennifer Nelson, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Torn at the Genes”	The setting for this discussion case study is the family dinner table, where a heated discussion about genetically altered foods is taking place. The case considers both the scientific and the ethical issues surrounding the genetic alteration of plants.
Kim Davis - Can A Genetic Disease Be Cured? A Mother’s Dilemma Michael S. Hudecki, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Kim Davis - Can A Genetic Disease Be Cured?”	In this decision case, parents must decide whether or not to enroll their sons in an experimental treatment program designed to alleviate the sympotms of muscular dystrophy. The case explores the genetics and physiology of the disease, as well as the issues involved with pharmaceutical research.
Dialogues as Case Studies : Human Cloning Student papers by Kabir Tambar, Rachel Juras, and John Tan	Students explore the issues of human cloning in a series of “dialogue papers” that present both sides of this controversial topic.
Directed Case Study: The Death of Baby Pierre - A Genetic Mystery Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo	This directed case study on a genetic disorder was developed for an exam on genetics in a course in general biology.
Hemophilia: “The Royal Disease” Yelena Aronova-Tiuntseva and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo	This case study uses the spread of hemophilia through successive generations of Europe’s royal families through Queen Victoria’s descendants to illustrate classical principles of genetics.
Nutrition
Atkins or “Fadkins”? Karen E. Bledsoe, Western Oregon University Teaching Notes for “Atkins or ‘Fadkins’?”	When Mitchell reveals that he is going on a low-carb diet, Janine tries to talk him out of it, telling him that he’s too thin as it is and doesn’t need to loose any weight. Designed to accompany a nonmajors unit on human anatomy and physiology, this interrupted case study has students applying what they learn about human body systems to Mitchell’s fad diet claims and Janine’s sharp criticisms. Supplementary links help students explore new discoveries about appetite-controlling hormones, how body image may influence people’s dietary decisions, and some of the most common diet myths while developing compassion for people with genetically-determined weight problems.
Golden Rice: An Intimate Debate Annie Prud’homme Généreux, Quest University Canada Teaching Notes for “Golden Rice”	In this intimate debate case, students consider whether to support the development and use of Golden Rice as a means to alleviate vitamin A deficiency in the developing world. Students are exposed to arguments supporting and opposing the use of this genetically modified crop for humanitarian purposes. Since many of the arguments typically raised against GMOs do not apply to this particular GM crop, students are forced to analyze the facts rather than rely on what they have heard in the media. Developed for an introductory molecular biology undergraduate course, the case could also be used at more senior levels.
Energy Up, Weight Down? Finding Nutrition Information Susan Fredstrom, Minnesota State University Teaching Notes for “Energy Up, Weight Down?”	When Jill’s roommate Nancy starts using a nutritional product to improve her energy and lose weight, Jill goes searching for information about it. Her search leads her to nutrition labels, websites and as she digs deeper, the results of studies. She also draws on information from the class she’s taking in nutrition to answer her roommate’s questions. This short case, developed as a homework assignment for a unit on finding nutrition information, is used in an introductory nutrition class. It would also be appropriate for other health-related classes.
Sweet Indigestion: A Directed Case Study on Carbohydrates Peggy Brickman, University of Georgia Teaching Notes for “Sweet Indigestion”	These days it seems like everyone is counting carbs. About 24 million Americans report they have cut carbohydrates from their diet, and 44 million more say they may try a low-carb diet in the next two years. But what do people really know about carbohydrates? This directed case study, designed for use in a large enrollment introductory course, teaches students how to recognize carbohydrates in the foods they eat and to differentiate between different classes of carbohydrates. Students learn how the body utilizes carbohydrates and discuss whether or not eliminating them from their diet can be healthful.
Thiamin Deficiency: A Directed Case Study Preeti Dhar, SUNY New Paltz Teaching Notes for “Thiamin Deficiency”	In this directed case study, developed for a biochemistry class, students read about the differences in the dietary preferences and practices for preparing and consuming rice among the three major communities of Malaysia, the local Malays and the immigrant Tamils and Chinese, and then answer a series of close-ended questions about the causes and consequences of thiamin deficiency.
Wake-Up Call Lisa A. Rubin and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Wake-Up Call”	The main character of this case is Denise, who we first meet in the early morning hours as she wakes up in a cold sweat, gasping for breath. But it’s her husband, Jeremy, who has been diagnosed with heart disease, not her. What’s going on? In this interrupted case study, in which the other main character is Denise’s heart, who we get to know through a series of “interior” monologues, students learn about the risk factors, symptoms, and consequences of a heart attack.
Morgan: A Case of Diabetes Lisa Rubin and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Morgan: A Case of Diabetes”	The overall objective of this case is to teach students about the causes and effects of Type 2 diabetes by working through the various options available to a young Native American woman suffering from the disease. This case can be used in a variety of settings, including nutrition classrooms, herbal drug courses, physiology courses, medical schools, nursing schools, pharmacy schools, diabetes workshops, and even weight loss clinics.
All That Glitters May Not Be Gold: A Troublesome Case of Transgenic Rice Gerald F. Combs, Jr., Cornell University Teaching Notes for “All That Glitters May Not Be Gold”	In this decision case, a congressional staffer must weigh a number of concerns and issues, including popular reactions to genetically modified organisms, in deciding how to present information to her boss, an influential congressman drafting legislation to support agricultural research. The case explores the social and biological issues surrounding micronutrient malnutrition, including deficiencies of several vitamins and essential minerals, especially iron, iodine, and vitamin A, which affect at least one-third of the world’s population, primarily in developing nations.
Pharmacy
Discovering Long-Term Care Pharmacy Practice: A PBL Case for Pharmacy Students Jeffrey C. Reist and Christine M. Catney, The University of Iowa Teaching Notes for “Discovering Long-Term Care Pharmacy Practice”	This three-part progressive disclosure case is designed to introduce pharmacy students to the pharmacists role in long-term care (LTC) facility consulting pharmacy practice and to acquaint them with the essential, basic resources for conducting a drug regimen review.
Sometimes Less is Better: The Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism Angela Wisniewski, University at Buffalo, Thuy Nguyen, University of Southern California, and David Newberger, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Sometimes Less is Better”	Ed Cramer is a 47-year-old mechanical engineer who is being treated for venous thromboembolism. He was 45 when he first developed a blood clot, in the lower part of his left leg, and had to be hospitalized for five days. A year later, he developed a second blood clot, which almost killed him. This case study, appropriate for graduate-level courses in medicine and pharmacy, explores the physiology and treatment of venous thromboembolism, a condition which kills 60,000 people each year in the United States.
Woe to That Child: A Case of Cystic Fibrosis Dayton J. Ford, St. Louis College of Pharmacy Teaching Notes for “Woe to That Child”	The Horowitz’s son Alvin has had a chronic cough and diarrhea for almost a week, and he’s wheezing a lot more than they think is normal for a child with a cold, which is what their family pediatrician has told them Alvin has. But the pediatric pulmonologist on duty in the emergency room where they take Alvin tells them their son is suffering from something much more serious than a cold. This case study on cystic fibrosis was developed for second-year pharmacy students to help them tie together elements of cell physiology, osmosis and tonicity, and membrane transport processes.
Morgan: A Case of Diabetes Lisa Rubin and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Morgan: A Case of Diabetes”	The overall objective of this case is to teach students about the causes and effects of Type 2 diabetes by working through the various options available to a young Native American woman suffering from the disease. This case can be used in a variety of settings, including nutrition classrooms, herbal drug courses, physiology courses, medical schools, nursing schools, pharmacy schools, diabetes workshops, and even weight loss clinics.
Does a One-Size Drug Dose Fit All? Kathleen Boje, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Does a One-Size Drug Dose Fit All?”	The purpose of this case study is to make students aware that some patients may require individualized drug dosing regimens based on a variety of patient variables. It was developed for an introductory pharmaceutical sciences course but would be suitable for other students with a biological, biomedical, health sciences, or chemistry/medicinal chemistry background.
The Case of Ruth James: A Woman in Excellent Health Christine M. Catney, University of Iowa Teaching Notes for “The Case of Ruth James”	In this case designed for pharmacy students, an elderly woman apparently “in excellent health” suddenly becomes ill and health care practitioners must determine the cause.
The Haemophilus Vaccine: A Victory for Immunologic Engineering Arne Tärnvik, Umeå University, Sweden Teaching Notes for “The Haemophilus Vaccine”	This case study focuses on a young mother whose child attends a day care center where there has been an outbreak of bacterial menigitis. The case explores the need for health care workers to provide relevant medical information and advice to patients, parents, and the community.
Is That Pill You’re Taking Safe? A Case Study About the Drug Development Process Janis G. Hammer, Delaware Valley College Teaching Notes for “Is That Pill You’re Taking Safe?”	This dilemma cased is based on the actual development, FDA approval, and market withdrawal of dexfenfluramine, a drug used in the late nineties in combination with phentermine for weight loss.
Physics / Engineering
A Tale of Two Houses: A Case Study in Heat Transfer Frank Bowman and Brian Tande, University of North Dakota Teaching Notes for “A Tale of Two Houses”	At Thanksgiving dinner, Uncle Bubba and Uncle Bill are arguing over whose house is more expensive to heat or cool: Bubba’s Georgia home in the summer or Bill’s North Dakota home in winter. Student teams play the role of Bubba and Bill’s niece or nephew, an engineering student who attempts to resolve their argument. This interrupted case was developed for use in sophomore- and junior-level chemical engineering classes dealing with heat transfer applications and theory. It could also be adapted for use in introductory physics and engineering courses. It is designed to (1) teach students about conduction heat transfer and (2) guide students through the process of engineering model development.
A Cool Glass of Water: A Mystery Li-hsuan Yang, University of Michigan—Flint Teaching Notes for “A Cool Glass of Water”	Does an ice cube melt more quickly in salt water or in fresh? The answer surprises the group of student science teachers portrayed in this interrupted case study. To explain the phenomenon they must figure out the interactions between two clusters of concepts: (1) density and its relationship to floating or sinking, and (2) three modes of heat or energy transfer due to a temperature difference (particularly conduction and convection, with an optional discussion of radiation). The case can be adapted for use in general education science courses or for introductory physics or chemistry courses.
A Classic Case of Serial Murder: Forensics Meets Photonics Karen Altendorf and Alan Cheville, Oklahoma State University Teaching Notes for “A Classic Case of Serial Murder”	In this case study, a newly appointed medical examiner uncovers an unusual trend in drowning cases, which she suspects may be the work of a serial murderer. To prove shes right, she needs to build a case based on spectroscopic evidence, relying on instrumentation designed and tested by a team of students from the local university. The evidence gathered and analyzed by the students leads to the arrest of a local man, and the students are called to present evidence at his trial. The case is suitable for any undergraduate course on optics, photonics, or spectroscopy in physics, chemistry, or electrical engineering.
Election 2000: A Case Study in Human Factors and Design Ann M. Bisantz, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Election 2000”	The controversies surrounding the November 2000 presidential election, specifically the difficulties encountered in interpreting imperfectly punched ballots, provide the backdrop for this case. Developed for an upper-level undergraduate course in human factors/ergonomics, the goal of the case is to help students recognize how engineering solutions can be brought to bear to solve problems of national importance. The case would also be appropriate for use in an upper-level undergraduate course in human-computer interaction or user centered design.
An Electrical Storm on the Horizon: Can Technology Stimulate Reasoned Debate on Waste Containment? Alan Cheville, Oklahoma State University Teaching Notes for “An Electrical Storm on the Horizon”	In this case study, student teams design a prototype sensor capable of quantitative measurement of dissolved oxygen and fluorescein dye in water in order to analyze runoff from an impoundment facility potentially leaching toxins into the groundwater. The case was developed for an undergraduate laboratory course in photonics for junior- and senior-level students.
The Zoom Lens: A Case Study in Geometrical Optics Alan Cheville and Misa Scepanovic, Oklahoma State University Teaching Notes for “The Zoom Lens”	A motion picture company (circa 1950) is having problems with antiquated equipment. The director, actors, and crew all want the CEO of the company, who is notorious for being tight with money, to invest in a newly developed zoom lens. Students are asked to take the part of an engineering design team and design a zoom lens that meets certain design specifications.
Those Pesky Side-Reactions: A Case Study on Ethics for Scientists and Engineers Developing Data in the Private Sector Wayne Seames, University of North Dakota Teaching Notes for “Those Pesky Side-Reactions”	The characters in this dilemma case must balance personal financial considerations, their professional futures, and time constraints against ensuring that the product they are proposing is safe. The case explores the issues surrounding ethical decision-making and asks students to decide what the central characters in the story should do. The case was designed to be used in mid- or upper-level chemistry and chemical engineering college courses.
The Cheerleader and the Football Player: Physics and Physical Exertion Malati Patil, University at Buffalo, State University of New York Teaching Notes for “The Cheerleader and the Football Player”	As the result of a wager between the school football team and its cheerleading squad, one of the cheerleaders has to lift a 300-pound football player off the ground. In this directed case study, students learn about the mechanical principle of the pulley. It is suitable for any basic class at the high school or undergraduate level where Newtonian mechanics are discussed.
The Tokaimura Accident: Nuclear Energy and Reactor Safety Michael E. Ryan, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Tokaimura Accident”	The 1999 accident at the Tokaimura nuclear fuel processing plant near Tokyo is the context for a student discussion on nuclear power and the consequences of a nuclear accident. The case covers issues ranging from chemical process safety to risk management of chemical industries to the ethical responsibilities of the chemical engineer.
Lost in Space: A Case Study in Engineering Problem-Solving Albert Titus, Rochester Institute of Technology Teaching Notes for “Lost in Space”	The failure and loss of the Mars Climate Orbiter is examined in this case study, which explores the political, ethical, and economic issues as well as the scientific and technical aspects of the mishap.
Irradiation: Is It Consumer-Friendly? R.C. (Swamy) Anantheswaran, Pennsylvania State University Teaching Notes for “Irradiation: Is It Consumer-Friendly?”	This case introduces students to consumer perceptions and beliefs on scientific topics, and teaches them how the food industry evaluates processing technologies from a business perspective.
A Fridge in Space: A Case Study in Thermodynamics Lok C. Lew Yan Voon, Worcester Polytechnic Institute Teaching Notes for “A Fridge in Space”	This case provides an in-depth study of the principles of thermodynamics and the ADR cycle.
A Light on Physics: F-Number and Exposure Time: A Case Study in Optics Richard Brundage, St. Cloud State University Teaching Notes for “A Light on Physics”	In this case, students working in teams “compete” to win a photography contest. The case uses optics to illustrate methods and applications of science to non-science majors.
“So What is it That Engineers Do, Anyway?” Ann Bisantz, Amjad Aref, and Alexander Cartwright, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “So What is it That Engineers Do, Anyway?”	In this case, new engineering students are introduced to the discipline of engineering by illustrating the roles of various types of engineers in a large engineering project that has the potential to greatly impact many aspects of society--the Intelligent Transportation System.
The Benign Hamburger Graham Peaslee, Hope College, Juliette Lantz, Siena College, and Mary M. Walczak, St. Olaf College Teaching Notes for “The Benign Hamburger”	In this dilemma case study, in which a restaurant chain must decide whether to use irradiated beef to protect its customers from E. coli, students are introduced to nuclear applications aside from those involving nuclear power generation and weapons.
The Petition: A Global Warming Case Study Bruce Allen and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “The Petition”	The goal of this dilemma case study is to teach students about the various aspects of global warming. Students read graphs and interpret data, and consider the political, economic, and ethical issues surrounding the controversy.
The Day They Turned the Falls On: The Invention of the Universal Electrical Power System Jack Foran	This case details the history of the use of a natural resource, Niagara Falls, to generate electricity.
Plant Science
*The Ecology of Opuntia fragilis* (Nuttall) Haworth** Eric Ribbens, Western Illinois University Teaching Notes for “The Ecology of Opuntia fragilis (Nuttall) Haworth”	This interrupted case is based on the authors own personal research on the fragile prickly pear cactus in Stearns County, Minnesota, and the data described is a product of the work of several undergraduate students at St. Johns University, which partially funded this research. By simulating the process of doing science through its progressive disclosure format, the case encourages students to think about plant population ecology from an actual research perspective. The case can be used in an introductory biology or botany course, and with slight modifications in an upper-level plant ecology course.
The Case of the Tainted Taco Shells - General Edition The Case of the Tainted Taco Shells - Advanced Edition Ann Taylor, Wabash College Teaching Notes for “The Case of the ‘Tainted’ Taco Shells”	This case discusses some of the issues associated with the use of genetically modified plants, including ecological risks, resistance, and allergenicity. The General Edition emphasizes the basic biochemistry and scientific ethics issues associated with genetically modified foods. The Advanced Edition probes the same issues but includes more advanced questions regarding the biochemistry of how genetically modified plants work.
Experimental Design and Statistical Analysis: Bt Corn, Lignin, and ANOVAs Eric Ribbens, Western Illinois University Teaching Notes for “Experimental Design and Statistical Analysis: Bt Corn, Lignin, and ANOVAs”	This case is based on a research paper about the lignin content of genetically modified corn published in the American Journal of Botany. Students are asked to analyze and discuss the paper, focusing on questions related to experimental design and interpretation and a critique of the statistical data presented. Developed for a plant ecology course and a biostatistics course, the case could be used in courses on plant anatomy, plant physiology, soil ecology, agriculture, or genetics.
War of the Roses: A Case Study in Plant Pathology Melissa B. Riley, Clemson University Teaching Notes for “War of the Roses”	In this case, students use lab techniques to determine how the protagonist of the story, a student in a plant pathology class, can find out what is wrong with his mother’s roses. The case introduces students to sources of information for the proper diagnosis of plant diseases as well as methods of controlling plant diseases. Developed for the introductory laboratory in a basic upper-level undergraduate plant pathology course, the case could also be used in other courses such as introductory agriculture, horticulture, botany, and biology, where there is an interest in the diagnosis of plant diseases.
Frankenfoods? The Debate Over Genetically Modified Crops Bill Rhodes, Clemson University, Maha M. Alkhazindar, Cairo University, and Nancy A. Schiller, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Frankenfoods”	This discussion case, in which a university research laboratory is vandalized by environmental activists opposed to genetic engineering, focuses on the science and ethics of genetically modified crops. Students consider both the risks and benefits of biotechnology and explore the positions of various stakeholders including environmentalists, conservationists, agricultural businesses, research scientists, and farmers. Originally written for a vegetable crops course, the case would be appropriate for a wide variety of courses in which biotechnology is discussed.
Torn at the Genes: One Family’s Debate Over Genetically Altered Plants Jennifer Nelson, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Torn at the Genes”	The setting for this discussion case study is the family dinner table, where a heated discussion about genetically altered foods is taking place. The case considers both the scientific and the ethical issues surrounding the genetic alteration of plants.
Psychology
Joe Joins the Circus (or Elephant Love): A Case Study in Learning Theory Jennifer Feenstra, Northwestern College, Orange City, IA Teaching Notes for “Joe Joins the Circus”	Joe joins the circus and finds himself in charge of elephant training. Throughout this interrupted case study, students work with learning theory to understand animal training. In reading about how Joe trains his two elephant charges, concepts and terms related to classical and operant conditioning are covered. This case study is useful for upper level psychology courses as a way to remind students of learning theory concepts. Following a lecture on learning theory, the case could also be used in an introductory psychology course.
“Stereotype Threat” and Recommendations for Overcoming It: A Teaching Case Study Robert W. Grossman, Selena Kim, and Siu-Lan Tan, Kalamazoo College, and Thomas E. Ford, Western Carolina University Teaching Notes for “Stereotype Threat”	This case uses an example of racism experienced by a Korean American student to explore the concept of “stereotype threat,” the fear that one’s behavior will confirm an existing stereotype of a group with which one identifies. The case consists of several sections, which students read and then reflect upon by writing and then discussing their answers to the questions associated with each part of the case. The case was designed for use with two different groups: college faculty and psychology students.
A Collision of Two Worlds: A Critical Thinking Case Study for Abnormal Psychology Robert W. Grossman, Kalamazoo College Teaching Notes for “A Collision of Two Worlds”	This case uses an excerpt from the novel I Never Promised You a Rose Garden to teach students to recognize symptoms of mental illness. Students read the excerpt and then work in small groups of two to three using a mental-status-exam (MSE) format to identify and label symptoms of mental illness. Emphasis is placed on supporting the students’ classifications with direct quotes from the text. This focuses the students’ attention on the importance of supporting inferences with evidence. While designed for undergraduates in an abnormal psychology course, the case also could be used in more advanced clinical courses.
To Be Who I Am: An Issues Case on Identity and the Body Deborah Engelen-Eigles, Century College Teaching Notes for “To Be Who I Am”	This case examines a rare condition known as Body Integrity Identity Disorder, in which an individual has a persistent and consuming desire to become an amputee. Students apply Charles Horton Cooley’s theory of the “looking-glass self” to explore factors that play a role in the creation of identity and self-concept. They further compare and critique cultural attributions of deviance to different forms of body modification and delve into the apparent contradictions inherent in a desire condemned as deviant by society, yet expressed in terms of values widely promoted by that society. The case is appropriate for introductory sociology courses as well as upper division and/or topics courses in social psychology, deviance, medical ethics, research methods, and disability studies.
The Irresistible Costs of Impressing Others: Managing Impressions and Regulating Behavior Jamie G. McMinn, Westminster College Teaching Notes for “The Irresistible Costs of Impressing Others”	Recent research indicates that people who boast to friends and those who are modest to strangers are less able to regulate their behaviors on other tasks. This case study presents a scenario in which four college roommates use different strategies to manage the impressions they make at a party. When they are later presented with a tray of tempting cookies, students are asked to predict how many each will eat and to justify their answers using the research results. Designed for use in a social psychology course, the case is also appropriate for introductory, health, and motivation psychology courses.
War, Death, and Cognitive Dissonance: A Case Study for Social Psychology Jamie G. McMinn, Westminster College Teaching Notes for “War, Death, and Cognitive Dissonance”	This case study explores cognitive dissonance theory, a theory proposed by psychologist Leon Festinger in 1956 to explain the tension that exists when peoples attitudes are incongruent with their behaviors. Students read a news article describing how residents of a town in Ohio are coping with the rising death toll among Ohio soldiers fighting in Iraq. They are then asked to evaluate the theory and to propose alternative explanations for the evidence in the article. Designed for use in social psychology courses, the case would also be appropriate for introductory psychology courses.
Artificial Sanity: A Case Study for a Class in Introductory Psychology Sheila OBrien Quinn, Salve Regina University Teaching Notes for “Artificial Sanity”	Using the story of death row inmate Charles Singleton, who developed paranoid schizophrenia while in prison awaiting execution, this case study explores the relationship between a societys concept of mental illness and its treatment of people who are mentally ill. Students are asked to identify the model of mental illness assumed by each of the lawyers in the case and to explain the implications of that model in terms of the defendants rights and responsibilities.
Case of Maria: A Cross-Cultural Study of the Therapeutic Relationship Stephanie L. Brooke, University of Phoenix, and Janet Morahan-Martin, Bryant University Teaching Notes for “Case of Maria”	The Case of Maria illustrates concepts of assessment, diagnosis, and treatment within the context of a counseling relationship. The purpose of the case is to teach about the dynamics of the therapeutic relationship, specifically that it is a relationship based on power. The case covers depression, the diagnosis of psychological disorders, cross cultural issues in counseling, and treatment planning. It could be used in either an introductory psychology course or at a more advanced level such as in an upper-level abnormal psychology course.
Paired Associates Learning, the Shortfalls of Behaviorism, and the Rise of Cognitivism Elizabeth J. Meinz, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Teaching Notes for “Paired Associates Learning...”	In this interrupted case, students learn about a series of studies conducted in the late ’50s/early ’60s by Robert Young at the University of Texas at Austin. The studies, which explored the type of phenomena that behaviorism has had a difficult time explaining, were instrumental in the rise of cognitive psychology. The case was written for use in a cognitive psychology course, but could also be used in other psychology courses such as Introductory Psychology, History and Systems of Psychology, or other courses in which the contrast between behaviorist and cognitive explanations of behavior are discussed.
A Rush to Judgment? A Case of Research Ethics and Design Sheryl R. Ginn, Wingate University, and Elizabeth Meinz, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Teaching Notes for “A Rush to Judgment?”	This case describes a study conducted by students in which a number of ethical issues arise including the treatment of research participants and the supervision of student research assistants by faculty. By examining the way in which the study was conducted, students also begin to explore the basic principles of good experimental design. The case was developed for a sophomore-level research methods course as an introduction to research ethics and design. It could also be used in an introductory psychology course or other introductory-level science courses to illustrate the research process in science.
Split My Brain: A Case Study of Seizure Disorder and Brain Function Julia Omarzu, Loras College Teaching Notes for “Split My Brain”	This case study involves a couple deciding whether or not their son should undergo brain surgery to treat a severe seizure disorder. In examining this dilemma, students apply knowledge of brain anatomy and function. They also learn about brain scanning techniques and discuss the plasticity of the brain. The case was written for an introductory psychology course, but could be adapted for any course that covers brain anatomy, neurological disorders, or rehabilitation therapies.
Extrasensory PerceptionPseudoscience? A Battle at the Edge of Science Sarah G. Stonefoot and Clyde F. Herreid, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Extrasensory PerceptionPseudoscience?”	The overall purpose of this case study is to teach students to be skeptical of scientific claims, particularly those that are sensational and fall outside the boundaries of normal scientific explanation. Students read the case and then evaluate information to determine whether they believe there is enough scientific evidence to confirm the existence of extrasensory perception. The case was developed for for use in an introductory science or psychology course, but would also be appropriate for courses in human biology in which the nervous system is explored.
The Mozart Effect: A Psychological Research Methods Case Lisa D. Hager, Spring Hill College Teaching Notes for “The ‘Mozart Effect’”	In this case study, students are given information regarding an advertisement claiming that listening to the classical music in the advertised CD set will enhance peoples cognitive skills and creativity. Students evaluate the claims and the evidence cited to support them and then determine how they themselves might independently verify the claims. The case combines several approaches, including a directed case approach with the use of journal articles combined with lecture, individual assignments, and small group work.
Exploring Unintentional Racism: The Case of Tim Hanks Robert W. Grossman, Kalamazoo College, and Thomas E. Ford, Western Michigan University Teaching Notes for “Exploring Unintentional Racism”	This case study is designed to help students explore their attitudes about race and examine the complexity of racism. It also has been used to teach about the social psychology of unintentional racism, attribution theory, and institutionalized racism. The case consists of several sections, or parts. Students are given one part of the case and asked to engage in corresponding discussion and/or writing activities before moving on to the next part.
The 2000-Meter Row: A Case Study in Performance Anxiety Douglas Post, Ohio State University Teaching Notes for “The 2000-Meter Row”	This case is based on another case in our collection, The 2000-Meter Row: A Case in Homeostasis, which emphasized the metabolic, respiratory, and cardiac responses of a young athlete competing in a championship rowing event. In this modified version, the same event is viewed in a new light to explore the psychological ramifications of the stressful competition.
Are You Blue? What Do You Do? A Case Study on Treatment Options for Depression Robert Grossman, Kalamazoo College, Amy Pettigrew, University of Cincinnati, Linda Walsh, University of Northern Iowa, and Kathleen Boje, University at Buffalo Teaching Notes for “Are You Blue? What Do You Do?”	This case study introduces students to treatment alternatives for depression using a jigsaw method in which groups of students are divided up so that each member of the “home group” becomes the “resident expert” in one of five possible treatment options. Designed for a course in abnormal psychology, this case could be adapted for courses in physiological psychology, pharmacy, and neurobiology.
Selecting the Perfect Baby: The Ethics of “Embryo Design” Julia Omarzu, Loras College Teaching Notes for “Selecting the Perfect Baby”	This dilemma case, originally developed for a course in developmental psychology, is based on the true story of Jack and Lisa Nash, whose daughter Molly was born with a rare genetic disorder, Fanconi anemia. By having another child with specific genetic markers, the Nashes hoped to cure Molly using stem cells from the new baby’s umbilical cord blood. Students learn about developmental disorders and consider the ethical issues of genetic manipulation and fertility treatments.
Studying Racial Bias: Too Hot to Handle? Jane Marantz Connor, State University of New York at Binghamton Teaching Notes for “Studying Racial Bias: Too Hot to Handle?”	Students evaluate a research proposal to determine if it is consistent with ethical principles and federal guidelines for the conduct of research with human subjects. The case can be taught either as a discussion case or using role-playing.
A Case of Mistaken Identity? The Psychology of Eyewitness Memory Karen Chambers, Saint Mary’s College Teaching Notes for “A Case of Mistaken Identity”	This case explores the fundamental principles of memory, eyewitness accuracy, and police questioning techniques in witness identification in a criminal case. By studying the details of an actual series of attacks and the subsequent police investigation, students learn that memory is a reconstructive process rather than an accurate recording of events. The case has been used in an undergraduate introductory psychology course and in a course on psychology and the law. It could also be used in a cognitive psychology course.
Teaching Cases by Clyde Freeman Herreid, University at Buffalo
The Teaching Assistant Grading Party
A Case of Cheating? Teaching Notes for “A Case of Cheating?”
Molly Bergen—Undergraduate Teaching Assistant
Peer Evaluation: Dolby’s Dilemma
Paul Seymour, Assistant Professor: A Dilemma Case in Teaching Teaching Notes for “Paul Seymour”
“In the Beginning”: A Case Study in Teaching
A Dilemma Case on “Animal Rights”

The National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science Case Collection

The National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science
Case Collection