The Value of Case Studies as a Teaching Tool
This video explores the history, structure, and value of using case studies as an effective teaching tool in fields like organizational leadership. The practice dates back to the 19th century, starting with Harvard Law School student Christopher Langdell as an alternative to rote memorization. Case studies, essentially stories recounting real-world events or problems, force students to engage in contextual and data analysis and move beyond premature decisions. The video outlines a five-step process for analyzing a case and differentiates between two types: Narrative Case Studies: Provide a comprehensive history and outcome, allowing analysis of all steps. Decision-Forming Case Studies: Stop before the outcome, forcing the student to determine the solution. Finally, the video provides a framework for how students can individually and collaboratively attack a case study, emphasizing the importance of forming an original opinion before group discussion. YouTube Timeline [00:02] Case Studies in Organizational Leadership: Introduction to the 100-year history of case studies in this field. [00:14] Founder of the Case Study Method: The method was originated by Harvard Law School student Christopher Langdell between 1851 and 1854. [00:45] Alternative to the Dwight Method: Langdell's approach was a shift away from the prevailing Dwight Method of teaching, which relied heavily on rote memorization. [01:17] Langdell's Method: Required students to read cases and draw their own conclusions, an applied learning technique. [01:51] Value of Case Studies: They allow for vicarious learning through others' experiences, prompting contextual and data analysis. [03:04] What is a Case Study? Defined as a story that recounts events or problems with complexities, ambiguities, and nuances. [03:27] The Five-Step Analysis Process: Determine pertinent information. Identify the problem and perimeters. Identify possible solutions. Form strategies and ideas for action. Make decisions to fix problems. [04:05] Two Types of Case Studies: [04:12] Narrative: Uses a comprehensive history and outcome to teach the method. [05:07] Decision-Forming: Does not provide an outcome, forcing students to determine one themselves. [05:27] Common Case Elements: Any case study must have a decision-maker with a problem, a description of the problem's context, and supporting data. [06:35] Recommended Framework/Checklist: A four-step method for analyzing a case study. Thoroughly read and form individual opinions and a course of action. Share your ideas with the group. Engage in open discussion and listen to others' input. Reflect on how your original ideas changed (or didn't) after the discussion.
Not Rated Yet