In its most distilled form, a “case study” involves investigation of “real-life phenomenon through detailed contextual analysis of a limited number of events or conditions, and their relationships.” The “case” may focus upon an individual, organization, event, or project, anchored in a specific time and place. Most cases are based on real events, or a plausible construction of events, and tell a story, often involving issues or conflicts which require resolution. Often the objective of a case study approach is to develop a theory regarding the nature and causes of similarities between instances of a class of events. More broadly, case studies seek to illustrate broader, overarching principles or theses. A case study, in the context of environmental issues, usually involves the focus on an actual environmental situation, commonly involving a decision, an issue, a challenge, or an opportunity faced by a group of individuals, an organization, or a society. Case studies have been embraced in both the academy, as well as by environmental practitioners, who have utilized the method to develop instances of best practices, and to assist them in developing effective recommendations and policy prescriptions.

Pursuant to the launching of a new journal dedicated to the publication of case studies, as well as case study pedagogy (Case Studies in the Environment, University of California Press), this roundtable will discuss the benefits of incorporating cast studies into environmental studies/science curricula, examples of cases studies, methods to assess the effectiveness of this approach, and an introduction to the Journal.