Implementation of the Harvard case method through a plan–do–check–act framework in a university course

Abstract

In 2005, the Harvard Business School began to promote the Harvard case method (HCM) within the Asian region. Because of differences in classroom culture between Asian and Western countries, Asian participants’ reaction to the HCM implementation is of interest. This study explores how the western initiated method was implemented in one of the Asian areas, Taiwan, and how the participants perceived the instructional approach. The plan–do–check–act (PDCA) concept was adopted to implement the case method. The data collection consisted of surveys, interviews and class observations. The study results indicate that both the instructors and students showed rather positive attitudes toward HCM. Although obstacles are yet to be overcome, disseminating the case method in higher education in Taiwan appears promising. To more effectively implement HCM, a suggested PDCA framework is provided.

Keywords:

• case-based instruction
• classroom culture
• Harvard case method

Notes

aThe mean score of the 14 discussed cases with ‘1’ indicating ‘to a lesser extent’ and ‘5’ ‘to a greater extent.’

b1: Strongly disagree and 5: Strongly agree.