Science Case Studies and Problem Based Learning: Studying Problems Using Prior Knowledge, Experiences, and Reasoning The use of case studies in science is actually a group of methods used to stimulate student critical thinking and inquiry learning. Science case studies can be complex or they can simple in design. The important component of any case study is to engage students in the learning process as they use problem based learning strategies to solve the case. Case studies in science are appropriate for all grade levels in science education. The degree of difficulty increases with grade level. This is due to students relying on their prior knowledge and experiences in science, which influences their reasoning ability. in Public bookmarkswith casecritical_thinkingdesignengageinquirymethodspblproblemprocesswetzel