This presentation by Elizabeth Ashley Fox-Jensen for the CARN conference at Malmo University explores how real-world case studies, incorporated through action research cycles, can enrich pedagogical outcomes in higher education. Drawing on collaborations with NGOs—including High 5 Girls, the Maternity Foundation, and Toilets for All—students engaged directly with global issues, from STEM inclusion to maternal healthcare and sanitation access. By merging participatory design methods and user-centered practices, the case studies connected classroom theory to tangible problem-solving tasks, boosting engagement and critical thinking. Emphasis on sustainability and cultural awareness further aligns these experiences with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, expanding the social impact of academic work. Strategies for educators include early selection of case-study partners, cultural-sensitivity training, stakeholder engagement, and resource management. The results demonstrate heightened student motivation, improved learning quality, and meaningful contributions to community-based projects—underscoring the transformative potential of integrative, case-based learning in cultivating responsible, globally conscious graduates.