Course Research: Using the Case Method to Build and Teach Management Theory

摘要

Some in the Academy have questioned the usefulness of case studies in teaching sound management theory (Shugan, 2006). Our research and experience suggest exactly the opposite-that case studies can unite the development of theory with the teaching of it in a single enterprise we'll call course research. Conclusions such as those that Shugan and others have reached stem from misconceptions about the relationship of research, theory, case studies, and teaching. In fact, the proper use of case studies in teaching can help faculty resolve a basic dilemma of academia: Promotion is often based upon our published research, and we find that responsibilities to teach detract from the mandate to publish. When approached properly, case studies can transform teaching into research, which enrolls students as "course researchers," whose class participation can be exceptionally valuable in the theory-building process.