A student's perspective

Case teaching and learning in class

As a student, written cases call for preparations. A recommended approach is to go through the case briefly and then read it again more carefully, taking notes. The idea is to identify the key questions; that is, identify what you think the case is about. Later, in a study group, you discuss the case following an agreed-upon systematic approach.

Participating in a case discussion

The following suggestions apply to students in class:

If you are asked to open the case, provide a brief summary of what you think the case about (avoid providing your view on the solutions)
Take on the role assigned to you in the case (for example, the manager or a stakeholder)
Keep within the case timeline (even if you know “what happened later”)
Listen to what others have said and relate your comments to what has been said
Do not be shy
Raise your hand to signal that you would like to comment (if you do not get the opportunity, lower your hand)
Try to keep your comments short and to the point
Try to relate the discussion to other relevant situations
Argue for your point of view
Agree and disagree in a professional manner
Remember, you are among friends and that the “learning is in the classroom”