THE ADOPTION OF THE CASE METHOD OF TEACHING IN VOCATIONAL EDUCATION

Resumen

This study explores the adoption of the case method in vocational education, applied to the Organizational Management course for administrative assistant students at SENAI Paraíba. The context encompasses the need to promote quality vocational training aligned with labor market demands, aiming at the development of technical and social competencies in students. The objective is to investigate how the application of the case method can contribute to this educational process, providing an effective integration between theory and practice. The methodology involved the instructor’s experience report based on participant observation, from the selection of an appropriate case to the structuring of the course based on learning objectives and the application of the case in the classroom, followed by an analysis of the results. The findings highlight that the use of the case method allowed for a more dynamic approach, promoting reflection, debate, and the development of problem-solving skills. Additionally, it showed a stronger connection between theoretical content and organizational reality. However, challenges encountered by the instructor included a lack of student engagement, the length and technical language of the narrative, as well as insufficient interaction and participation in the debate. These results suggest that the case method can be an effective tool to enhance vocational education and prepare students for the challenges of the labor market, but it should be adapted or written based on the students' level of education..