The case study method in management development : a teaching approach

M.Comm.This study has been undertaken with the specific objective of acquiring an insight into the development and application of case method instruction in management development. Little has been written about teaching using the case method, although a number of books contain sections on the analysis of case studies. Teaching using the case method is not an "easy way out" of the preparatory work involved in lecturing. On the contrary, the case facilitator is required to be even more prepared in class. He needs to be in charge without inhibiting the free flow of discussion, a crucial requirement in successfull case method teaching. He must also be prepared for the unexpected, something only possible if he masters the facts as well as the process. Management development using the case method will enable potential managers to acquire skills in analysis, problem solving, decision making and communication. They will be exposed to real-life problems and engage in meaningful learning by doing. The magnitude of the need for management development is such that traditional theoretical management will not supply sufficient numbers of skilled managers to enterprises. The case method is an ideal method to assist in solving this problem