Note

This section provides 5 reproductive health case studies to prompt discussion about the material presented in the curriculum. Additionally to the 3 case studies provided in the Content section, 2 cases studies (Rumors and Standard of Care and Undue Inducement) are provided as alternatives. Each case study is printed separately for individual copying as handouts for participants. An Answer Key follows each case study. The recommended duration time for a case study activity is 30 to 45 minutes.

Case Study 1: Community Participation

Case Study 2: Autonomy

Case Study 3: Informed Consent Process

Case Study 4: Rumors

Case Study 5: Standard of Care and Undue Inducement

One way to use the Case Studies:

In a group setting, distribute the text to participants and let them read it individually for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes have elapsed, show them the slide with the questions.

For the next 15 minutes, ask them to pretend to be a formally established community representative group and discuss possible answers to the questions. After 15 minutes of group discussion, a designated spokesperson will let the entire group know the main issues that were raised.

The last 10 to 25 minutes should be devoted to a global discussion with the whole group.

Keep in mind that case studies will generally elicit a variety of reactions. While they are focused in the area of reproductive health, the issues raised transcend one specific category of research, and they were written to raise a multitude of questions and considerations. This type of discussion will enrich the working group and should be pursued; however, the training leader may need to curtail some discussions in the interest of time.

The case studies illustrate the complexity of human research and how cultural, social, and gender issues affect the ethics of a research study.

We believe that these case studies are applicable to most settings, but discussions of characteristics that are unique to a particular country are encouraged.