Classroom Case Studies
These Epidemiologic Case Studies are based on historical events and include epidemiologic methods that were practiced at the time. Given the historical nature of this content, the methods that are referenced on this site may be outdated practices in some settings. As some of the practices are still used, they continue to offer educational value.
The epidemiologic case studies for the classroom are based on real-life outbreaks and public health problems. They were developed in collaboration with the original investigators and experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In these case studies, a group of students works through a public health problem with guidance from a knowledgeable instructor. Each case study begins with the recognition of the problem and proceeds through the resulting investigation in a linear fashion. Information about the problem is slowly revealed to the students. Periodic open-ended questions are used to highlight important aspects of the investigation and provoke discussion and exchange of ideas among participants.
Paper-based student and instructor versions are available for each classroom case study. The instructor’s version provides teaching points and basic information about each of the questions. Selected case studies are available in Spanish.
Classroom case studies available:
Instructor’s Guide
Foodborne Disease
Waterborne Disease