Mining case studies are important because they provide detailed insights into the environmental, social, economic, and technological aspects of mining operations in real-world contexts. They help stakeholders understand the impacts of mining on local communities, ecosystems, and economies, contributing to better decision-making and sustainable development. For example, case studies from places like Tanzania and Ramba County reveal how mining affects local health, livelihoods, and governance, highlighting challenges such as poverty, environmental degradation, and corruption(“Mining’s Impact on Environmental and Human Health: A Case Study of Ram” by Vivika Fernes, n.d.) (Lange, 2006).
Case studies provide students with scenarios in which they can begin to think about their understanding and solutions to problems found in real-world situations. When carefully planned, case studies will challenge students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a safe and open learning environment. Case studies can help students analyze and find solutions to complex problems with foresight and confidence(Case Studies | Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning, n.d.).
References:
-
Case Studies | Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning. (n.d.). Northern Illinois University. Retrieved August 5, 2025, from https://www.niu.edu/citl/resources/guides/instructional-guide/case-studies.shtml
-
Lange, S. (2006). Benefit Streams from Mining in Tanzania: Case Studies from Geita and Mererani. CMI Report, R 2006: 11. https://www.cmi.no/publications/2398-benefit-streams-from-mining-in-tanzania
-
“Mining’s Impact on Environmental and Human Health: A Case Study of Ram” by Vivika Fernes. (n.d.). Retrieved August 5, 2025, from https://digitalcollections.sit.edu/isp_collection/3131/
