minicase

Minicase is a term used across several domains to denote a small or compact case, container, or illustrative example. It does not point to a single, universal concept, and its precise meaning varies with context.

In education, minicase or mini-case refers to a short case study designed for classroom use. These materials usually focus on a single issue or decision, offering enough context to prompt discussion and analysis without the length of a full case study. They are commonly employed in business, management, and related fields to teach problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making skills with a concise narrative and targeted questions.

In packaging, hardware, and electronics, minicase describes a compact protective enclosure for small devices or circuit boards. Such enclosures are typically made of plastic or metal and are chosen to fit specific components, provide mechanical protection, and facilitate mounting or connectivity. Minicases are often used in prototypes, consumer electronics, and small-scale products where space is at a premium.

In software, data science, or demonstrations, minicase can refer to a brief, self-contained scenario or dataset used to illustrate a concept, test a feature, or showcase a method. These miniature examples are designed to be easy to understand while highlighting essential elements of a larger process.

See also: mini-case, case study, enclosure. The term “minicase” therefore functions as a versatile label across disciplines, rather than a fixed, domain-specific definition.