Applied learning and case studies: preparing students for the twenty-first century

Scholars recognise the importance of applied learning in online courses and reinforcement of twenty-first century skills related to learning, literacy, and life. The inquiry-based learning framework (IBL), which provides structure and guidance for student-driven learning, can be used to support online applied learning activities, such as case study development. This study examined students’ experience creating case studies as a form of applied learning in an online course using the IBL framework. Students completed a qualitative questionnaire at the end of the project to assess their experience. Analysis resulted in four primary themes: information processing, self-directed inquiry, skill development, and future applications, which align with the three pillars of twenty-first century skills. The results of this study indicate that IBL provides an effective framework for incorporating applied learning in the form of case study development in an online course, which facilitates students’ engagement and promotes further development of twenty-first century skills.