The National League of Nurses (NLN) identifies an unfolding case study as a form of case study that evolves over time to reflect changes to a client (2020). Unfolding case studies integrate authentic scenarios that can be used to teach the development of clinical skills. In our case study, the concept was used in the lecture hall setting as part of weekly activity participation.

Project Background

In the fall 2022 and 2023 semesters, an unfolding case study featuring a fictitious character called Fran Tastico was introduced via a blended delivery format based on a UDL framework. The case study was delivered weekly to apply key course concepts. Authentic first-year struggles were detailed in the unfolding case study and discussed as a group to promote learning in a safe environment. The unfolding nature of the case study provided an opportunity for learners to apply and transfer knowledge gained to their future practice as nurses.

Project Goals

The project included the following goals:

1. Implementing safe and supportive learning strategies that
   • minimized barriers to learning for all students, including those who experienced stress and trauma.
   • maximized self-reflection, self-regulation, self-determination, and self-actualization.
2. Assessing the impact of a blended course delivery model that was based on an unfolding case study on learner experiences of inclusivity of individually diverse learning needs and preferences.
3. Drawing on a course designed using UDL principles and an unfolding case study to reduce trauma and stress-related learning barriers, which subsequently builds learner self-regulation, self-confidence, and executive-functioning skills.

The UDL guidelines and instructional strategies used in the course are outlined in Table 1. The three main UDL principles of Multiple Means of Engagement, Representation, Action and Expression, nine guidelines and one example of each checkpoint of the UDL framework.

Table 1.