A Need for Needles

By Sarah G. Stonefoot, Clyde Freeman Herreid

Abstract

In this case study, students evaluate information about the use of acupuncture and consider the possibilities of alternative therapies while at the same time questioning their effectiveness. To complete the case, students collect information from Internet sources and journal publications from both a "pro" and "con" point of view, with an emphasis on carefully evaluating the credibility of the information they collect. The case would be suitable for introductory level courses in biology and science.

Download Case

Date Posted

06/28/2004

Overview

Objectives

To consider alternative medical therapies in general and acupuncture in particular.
To evaluate information and data to determine whether there is enough scientific evidence to conclude that acupuncture is an effective form of treatment.

Keywords

Acupuncture; alternative medicine; complementary medicine; pain management; electroacupuncture; qi; yin; yang; moxibustion; cupping; endorphin theory; gate-control theory; placebo effect; evidence based medicine; nervous system

Subject Headings

Biology (General)

Medicine (General)

Science (General)

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division

FORMAT

PDF

TOPICAL AREAS

Scientific argumentation

LANGUAGE

English

TYPE/METHODS

Dilemma/Decision, Discussion

Teaching Notes & Answer Key

Teaching Notes

Case teaching notes are protected and access to them is limited to paid subscribed instructors. To become a paid subscriber, purchase a subscription here.

Teaching notes are intended to help teachers select and adopt a case. They typically include a summary of the case, teaching objectives, information about the intended audience, details about how the case may be taught, and a list of references and resources.

Download Notes

Answer Key

Answer Keys are protected and access to them is limited to paid subscribed instructors. To become a paid subscriber, purchase a subscription here.

Note: There is no separate answer key for this case study.