Case Writing & Teaching

Three Interactive Workshops

by James A. Erskine*

This workshop is dedicated to writing field-based, decision-oriented cases for use in classroom discussions and is of interest to new as well as experienced case writers. The workshop focuses on a process that is applicable across all disciplines. The objectives are: 1. Introduce the Case Difficulty Cube concept 2. Re-engineer the Normal Steps in Writing a Case 3. Introduce the Concept of the Case Plan including:

The Opening Paragraph Data Requirements Listing

Statement of Teaching Objectives Preliminary Teaching Note Outline

Case Organization by Subtitles Proposed Time Plan

4. Discuss Continuing Challenges

(Limited Seating--pre-registration required--first registered, first admitted)

This workshop is focused on the fundamental pre-requisites necessary for effective teaching and learning with cases. New and experienced teacher alike, across all disciplines, will have an opportunity to participate in a sample case method class. The objectives of the teaching with cases workshop are to: 1. Review the distinguishing characteristics of a case and the reasons for using cases 2. Discuss the fundamental prerequisites including:

The Physical Facilities Selecting Appropriate Cases

Getting to Know Students The First Class or Two

3. Introduce the three-step process for effective learning with cases 4. Conduct a typical class using a short, general purpose case (Limited Seating - pre-registration required - first registered, first admitted).

This workshop is focused on helping students to learn faster and better using cases. The objectives of the learning with cases workshop are to: 1. Review the distinguishing characteristics of a case and the reasons for using cases 2. Review the case difficulty cube and the benefits to students. 3. Review the three-step process for effective learning with cases. 4. Introduce tools for effective student learning including:

The six steps of the Short Cycle Process Using the Case Preparation Chart

The seven steps of the Long Cycle Process

5. Apply the learning tools using a short case. (Limited Seating - pre-registration required - first registered, first admitted).

* Dr. Erskine is Associate Professor of Business Administration at The University of Western Ontario, Canada. He is the author of several books on case-method writing and teaching and has extensive case teaching and leadership training experience spanning 30 years.