The Effect of the Case Method on Tolerance for Ambiguity

Abstract

This research examined the effect of the case method of teaching the strategic management course on students' tolerance for ambiguity. Ambiguity tolerance, locus of control, and several demographic variables were assessed at pre- and postcourse intervals to determine if ambiguity tolerance increased with the use of narrative cases. When compared to the control group, the results suggest that case teaching can improve ambiguity tolerance of student participants. Performance in the course was also associated positively with tolerance for ambiguity. Implications of the change in ambiguity tolerance and future research directions are discussed.

How do we educate future innovation managers? Insights on innovation education in MBA syllabi

“…Even though case studies are useful to help students understand multiple issues in complex situations and develop an appreciation of real life management issues in a dialectic of discussion (Liang & Wang, 2004), and develop necessary skills for making and implementing decisions in the real world (Banning, 2003) Reflecting the emphasis on explorative and experiential nature of innovation, instructors tend to not to measure student performance through written examinations which are found to be a poor predictors of long term learning of course content or any subsequent performance, such as success at work (Gibbs & Simpson, 2002). They rely more on creative group activities and reflexive individual tasks.…”

Case Method and Case Study Collections

“…Case discussion provides students with a vicarious workplace experience. While the effectiveness of CM has been under researched, one study found that it increases students' tolerance for ambiguity (Banning, 2003). In a world characterized by rapid change and a need for flexibility, this was a powerful outcome.…”

Bending Moments to Business Models: Integrating an Entrepreneurship Case Study as Part of Core Mechanical Engineering Curriculum

“…The case study method is widely used in business schools to explore "the 'wicked' problems that potential managers will face in an uncertain world" 6 and encourage the "development of critical thinking and sense making abilities." 7 Over time, the case study method has become a popular teaching tool because its been shown to help the student connect theory with a practical application that increases the relevance of the potential solution 8 . Case-based instructional methods have long been used in engineering education, almost exclusively in the context of ethics where "there is widespread agreement that the best way to teach professional ethics is by using cases."…”