1. Learning with Cases
Ideas from the book “Learning with Cases” by Louise A. Mauffette-Leenders, James A. Erskine and Michiel R. Leenders from Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario
Presented by Tad Brinkerhoff, International Student Orientation August 1, 2013

2. What is a business case? A story A situation Involves a decision
Field based
Might contain certain kind of data
Generally there is no right answer
Two types of cases: decision based and problem based

3. Why are cases used? Started at Harvard Business School Learn by doing
Assume roles of a manager/leader
Consider different perspectives of a problem
Practice the art and science of management
Make decisions with available information

4. Case Analysis
Analytical approach: What is the key decision or issue in the case?
Conceptual approach: What theories, concepts or techniques might be useful in the understanding and/or resolution of this case?
Case learning process
Individual preparation
Small group discussion
Large group or class discussion

5. Individual preparation
Short cycle
Read opening and ending paragraphs
Who? What? Why? When? How?
Quick look at the case exhibits
Quick review of case subtitles
Skim case body
Read assignment questions and reflect

6. Individual preparation
Long cycle
Read the case
Analyze the case
Define the issue
Analyze the case data
Generate alternatives
Selection decision criteria
Assess alternatives
Select preferred alternative
Develop an action and implementation plan

7. Small group discussion
Discussion leader
Time limit
Attendance and participation rules
Commitment to each other
Trust
Rules for communication

8. Large Group discussion
Start the discussion
Issues identification
Analysis
Alternatives and decision
Action and implementation

9. Effective participation hints
Don’t repeat facts of the case
Don’t make unrealistic assumptions
Don’t monopolize the discussion
Back up claims
Use data and quantitative analysis
Consider use of mind mapping
Case interview prep resources

10. Additional resources to consider
Learning with cases – published by Ivey School of Business
Ace Your Case II by Webfeet Insider Guide (free at Purdue Library)
Case Analysis Coach from HBS Press (online resource)
The Case Study Handbook: How to read, discuss, and write persuasively about cases by William Ellet through HBS Press

11. Let’s practice with Brian
Individual analysis
Read the case
Analyze the case
Define the issue
Analyze the case data
Generate alternatives
Selection decision criteria
Assess alternatives
Select preferred alternative
Develop an action and implementation plan
Small group discussion
Large group discussion (issues, analysis, alternatives, action)
Questions
Reflection