Are we ready for case-based learning?

I had my very first experience with case-based learning in Wawasan Open University. Out of the many tutors, only one tutor attempted to use case-based learning. She was my tutor for the subjects Management in Organisations and Managing Human Resources.

At the end of each tutorial session, she will instruct us to form a group, read a case study, and prepare some PowerPoint slides incorporating the problem statement, analysis on the rootcause of the problem, decision criteria, alternative solutions, and the recommended chosen solution. On the next tutorial session, each of us (or the group leaders only) will present the analysis to the class.

To know more about the case-based learning, which originated from the Harvard Business School, click here to watch the video on how it is conducted.

I find the case-based learning as something refreshing and something different from the usual 'sit down and listen to the lecturer'.

Unfortunately, I overheard one student complaining "That tutor didn't teach anything at all". I have also heard grouses from other students as well concerning that tutor. The usual complaints are that "the tutor didn't teach much". Mind you, most of these students are corporate executives.

I believe it is ridiculous for one to complain such thing when one is a student of a distance learning university. You are already expected to be an independent learner.

It looks like Malaysian students are not yet ready for case-based learning.

You might want to read these:
We should encourage self-directed learning
What makes a good lecturer?