Case Method and Typical Day
The typical day for a participant might start the night before, with individuals reading case studies that will be discussed the next day, along with some instructor-supplied questions. We know executives are very busy, so we keep cases to 5-7 pages long. Or depending on client preference, a review of the case can be done in class.
In class, the professor begins with a brief summation of the case. Then the class opens for discussion, with the professor asking questions and engaging participants in a Socratic debate about aspects of the case. Participants respond to the professor and each other, exploring key teaching points but also touching upon other related topics arising from class comments. With class size limited to 15-40 participants, there is ample opportunity for individuals to actively contribute.
Typically two case studies are discussed in the morning. At midday, the class breaks for a group lunch. Then in the afternoon, one or two more case studies are discussed before class adjourns. Occasionally, a lecture is substituted for a case study.
Participants find the experience fast-paced, relevant, and memorable. They report that involvement in the case method is excellent training for real-world decision making.