On-Line Case Discussion: A Methodology

Abstract

Over the past several years, a number of research studies have investigated the application of Internet technologies to the classroom. Most of the research focus on asynchronous technology such as newsgroups or Web sites, or on GSS. No research investigates the possibility of conducting on-line case discussion. As case discussion in the classroom is a key pedagogical method in an executive program, our research examines a methodology for on-line case discussion. In this chapter, the results of an experiment conducted in an executive MBA program to investigate the use of on-line case discussion is presented. First, other research to determine the distinguishing characteristics of case discussion is reviewed. Then, the pedagogical context for the experiment is provided, and the experimental method is described. Finally, the results of a satisfaction questionnaire completed by the participants in the experiment are presented. Suggestions for further research and experiments are also discussed.