14/24 BITES
This module is a part of a larger collection of bite-sized learning on facilitating social learning spaces.
This collection of learning bites was created by Danida Fellowship Centre together with Beverly and Etienne Wenger-Trayner and produced by Grape and Brand By Hand. Photos used in the collection were taken by @Crawfurd Media, @E Pictures Media Ltd, @Daniel Samwel and Danida Fellowship Centre, supplemented with Stock Photos.
A case clinic is a way to work through a challenge together.
It’s not about getting “expert” advice.
It’s about listening, asking questions, and learning from shared experience.
You can use this format in team meetings, peer groups, or anywhere people are willing to think together.
Let’s take a look at how it works.
A case clinic follows five simple steps.
This protocol helps ensure that people don’t jump to conclusion too quickly.
You share the core of your challenge – just enough to help others understand.
Instead of a long story, you end with a clear, concise question: “Could you help me…”?
That question will guide the conversation.
The group asks questions to get a deeper understanding of your situation. E.g.: “Share more about who is involved.”
This phase is not about solving – it’s about inquiring to get a clearer idea of the challenge and its context.
The prompt for asking questions is:
“Share more about…”.
The group share real experiences from their own work that relate to the challenge.
These stories help you – and the whole group – reflect and connect the dots.
The prompt for sharing experiences is:
“This reminds me of…”
Now, the group offer their suggestions.
These are not instructions, but ideas from practice. You decide what makes sense in your context.
The prompt for giving advice is:
“You might try…”
You share what stood out for you – what you’re taking with you, and possibly what you intend to try. This helps you move forward, and it gives the group a sense of closure.
The prompt for the take-aways is:
“What struck me was…”
Let’s see what a case clinic can look like in real life.
In Amina’s department, things are moving fast. Her team is working on a new community outreach strategy – but something isn’t clicking.
She’s not sure how to bring in partners early – and still keep the process efficient. So, she brings this challenge to her colleagues in a case clinic.
You’ve just explored how a case clinic works: a real challenge, shared with others, in a structured process of listening, telling stories, and giving advice.
Now it’s time to connect this to your own practice – a challenge from your work, something real, possibly urgent, and worth bringing into a conversation.
Think of a real situation at your workplace.
Ask yourself:
If yes, then a case clinic might be just the kind of conversation that could help.
Take a moment to write down your challenge and your key question. It doesn’t have to be perfect – just enough to invite clarifying questions.
Work document
You can use the work document to note down your thoughts or just pause and reflect.
Want to try this with your own group? Download the case clinic guide (PDF) — with a step-by-step process and tips for facilitators. It’s a practical tool to help you get started.
This protocol has been created by Beverly and Etienne Wenger-Trayner and Travis Tennessen (Western Washington University).
Case clinic guide
Step-by-step process and tips for facilitators.
