Facilitating Case Discussion: Closing the Case Discussion

It is imperative to summarize what was discussed. Remember that this can also be accomplished via participants rather than by the facilitator. Save a minimum of 2-3 minutes to accomplish this important task. Refer back to the participants’ learning agenda and check-off the accomplished items using statements to highlight key points discussed. Items not addressed are often discussed in handouts and/or reference reading and can be pursued individually. One way to promote and model further individual learning is to ask participants how they plan to find answers to items not addressed. Remember to refer them to specific references included with each case. Alternatively, if the case will have a follow up session, some items could be assigned to volunteer participants to report on at the next session, taking a “problem based” approach. Be sure to review, highlight and emphasize the most important lessons learned from the discussion.