The Case Method
A distinctive element of the academic experience at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business is the case method of instruction. In contrast to a lecture-based approach to education, Darden class time is spent discussing cases about actual business problems and solutions. Under the skillful direction of a faculty member, students strengthen their communication and leadership skills by learning to make difficult decisions with limited information and significant uncertainty — critical skills for any current or future business leader. By actively defending their positions, students have a safe environment to learn to persuade and inspire others, to reconcile differing viewpoints and to prioritize objectives and capitalize on opportunities.
Students are exposed to over 500 cases in a variety of industries and functions during their time at Darden. In each class, students contribute their own viewpoints to the business situation at hand while building a strong frame of reference and broadened perspective from the classroom discussions. If you are able to visit a Darden class, you will see that Darden students do most of the talking.
Visit Perspectives on the Case Method for more information.
Four-Step Learning Process
Students find the Darden curriculum both challenging and rewarding. Darden’s case method is based on a Four-Step Learning Process, which allows for complete understanding and integration of the materials.
- Read and consider each case on your own. You must identify problems, define alternatives, analyze data, make decisions and outline a course of action.
- Share your ideas with your learning teams and resolve areas of uncertainty.
- Discuss the case in class and explore the input of everyone in your section.
- Reflect on how your initial ideas changed as a result of the input from your learning team, section and faculty.
Darden Case-Method Videos
Highlights of a Darden Case Study Class
The following video is a collection of highlights from an hour and a half Global Economies and Markets class taught by Peter Rodriguez, Associate Professor of Business Administration and Associate Dean for International Affairs. The video includes an introduction from Sara Neher, Director of MBA Admissions, as well as commentary from Peter Rodriguez.
How Darden Teaches Accounting Using the Case Method
The following video shows how the Darden School of Business teaches the First Year MBA Accounting course using the case method of instruction. Professor Luann Lynch and two current students are featured.
Watch the Darden Second Year Electives video to see variations on the case method in the Second Year.
Why Cases?
See why Darden Professor Ken Eades sees the case method as the best way to teach MBA students: