What is Case Methods

This chapter describes how case methods, namely discussion and reflection on published case studies, were used in online courses to promote the development of linguistically responsive and culturally sustaining practices. Participants included pre- and inservice teachers enrolled in courses for add-on licensure preparing them to work with English learners (ELs) as literacy and language teachers in Pre-K through 12 settings. Content analysis showed that cases (1) served as a catalyst for recognizing educational inequality preventing ELs from succeeding academically, (2) led participants to reflect on their beliefs and practices and make personal connections, and (3) prompted participants to offer practical classroom-level and broader structural solutions to address inequities in education of ELs. Reflections on what worked and considerations for using case methods in online literacy and language teacher preparation are described.