Writing case studies as a student learning tool

Abstract

Analysing case studies is a common teaching technique in many management related subjects and often forms an important part of the assessment process. Writing case studies is a logical extension of such an approach. Not only is the bank of case material continually updated and upgraded, but case writing can also lead to higher order learning due to the complexity of the activity. With appropriate guidance and supervision by the instructor, case writing can be a very powerful addition to the assessment options available. This paper outlines the learning benefits inherent in case writing by students and then details how such an activity can be implemented into class activities. Examples of the instructions provided to students and the various resources available are presented. Finally, the paper reflects on the success of case writing for students undertaking the capstone unit in the Master of Business Administration at Curtin University of Technology.