Concepts and Methods
Below is an overview of the learning concepts and methods that form the basis for teaching in the CBA program. These include lectures and the Case Learning Method, which are strategically combined in the curriculum delivery.
At AVT, it is our aim to take you as high as possible in the pyramid shown below, which reflects Bloom's taxonomy of learning (2001 revision). We will do so using the methods described on this page. Keep in mind that your journey up the pyramid requires your enthusiastic participation--both when preparing for a module and when present in class.
The ultimate goal of the CBA teachings is to help you "understand and run a business," as shown in the graphic below. You can see how we have designed the CBA program and the learning process to create a real "mini-MBA," using all the core elements of the MBA program. If you wish to dig deeper into the concepts presented in the CBA, you can do so by continuing on with the MBA studies.
The Case Learning Method combined with lectures
The CBA and MBA programs are taught in small, efficient classes that support an interactive and effective learning environment. AVT has implemented the methods and recommendations of Harvard Business School with respect to Participant-Centered Learning and the Case Learning Method, which Harvard pioneered. In their teaching, our instructors combine the proven Case Learning Method with stimulating lectures to provide optimal opportunities for learning.
The learning process
The learning process of the CBA program can be characterized as follows:
- Reading of textbooks
- Reading of cases
- Preparation of each case
- Teaching:
- Lectures
- Case learning
- Exercises
- Writing of the papers, including group discussions
- Feedback from the professor
- Individual walkthrough of the papers based on the feedback
Lectures are an excellent learning method when the goal is to learn about different management techniques, both specifically and in the abstract. Exercises and writing papers are outstanding methods for learning to master management applications and techniques in practice, while at the same time improving the understanding of their potential and limitations.
The Case Learning Method, on the other hand, is a powerful learning technique that allows participants to develop and hone their managerial skills. Case learning is based on the learning concepts metaphor and simulation, teaching the participant to analyze a management situation--and then develop recommended approaches and conclusions in a well-grounded and structured manner.
Cases describe a variety of true-life management situations in real companies, typically in story format. They provoke discussions about actual business circumstances which real executives were faced with. As the learner, you are tasked to put yourself in the position of the executive(s) in the case, analyze the situation, and develop recommendations for what you would do and the reasons why.
You will then have the opportunity during class to present and justify your recommendations and listen to the recommendations of your classmates. One of the most compelling things about case learning is that there is no one correct solution--all well-justified recommendations are valid.
Although a case typically ends with the description of what the real executives actually did in response to their situation, not even that is final. After all, they could have been--and sometimes were--wrong.