Master Case Writing Webinar Notes

Introduction

• Speaker: Sarah Anderson, Cases Marketing Manager at Emerald Publishing
• Purpose: Discuss how to write a successful teaching case study
• Webinar recorded; slides available in handout section

Speakers Introduction

• Dr. Michael Goldman:
  • Teaches at University of San Francisco's Sport Management Master's Programme
  • Editor-in-Chief of Emerald Publishing's Emerging Markets Case Studies Collection
• Melissa Close:
  • Cases Publishing Lead at Emerald Publishing
  • Will announce 2023 case writing competitions

Importance of Case Studies

• Focus on case research, writing, and teaching
• Aim: Bring content alive and apply theories rigorously
• Importance of making an impact in management education

Key Discussion Points

1. Why Case Studies?

   • Emerging trends in business schools about the impact of case research
   • Contributions to management education through case studies

2. What is a Discussion-Based Case Study?

   • Definition and characteristics of a great case study
   • Discussion-based cases allow students to engage with real-world decisions

3. How to Write a Case Study?

   • Steps in moving a case project forward
   • Importance of learning outcomes and teaching notes

Key Components of a Case Study

• Open Unsolved Dilemma:
  • Case narrative focuses on a core dilemma or choice faced by the protagonist
• Protagonist:
  • Story revolves around one or two main characters
  • Students should identify with the protagonist
  • Importance of voice and quotations from the protagonist
• Emerging Market Context:
  • Cases should reflect real situations in emerging markets

Crafting a Great Case Study

• Storytelling and research depth are crucial
• Good case studies facilitate engagement and discussion in classrooms
• Teaching notes must outline learning outcomes, teaching plan, and assignment questions

Tips for Writing Award-Winning Cases

1. Core Dilemma: Ensure the dilemma is central to the case
2. Storytelling Voice: Engaging narrative supported by research depth
3. Theoretical Application: Use recent and relevant theories in teaching notes
4. Teaching Plan: Detailed plan to guide instructors on how to teach the case

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Long or boring cases without a clear dilemma
• Weak teaching notes that feel like an afterthought
• Lack of novelty in the case content

Resources Available

• Cases Learning Hub: Free online resource for case writing
• Author Guidelines: Essential for ensuring submission quality
• Emerald Case Competitions: Opportunities to submit cases for awards
  • Case for Women: Focus on high-quality cases featuring female protagonists
  • Emerald Seaman Case Writing Competition: Focus on emerging markets
  • Indigenous Voices Case Competition: Highlight Indigenous stories and perspectives

Conclusion

• Feedback from attendees encouraged
• Open for questions and further discussions after the session
• Emphasis on the importance of case studies in management education

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These notes capture the key points from the Master Case Writing webinar and provide a framework for understanding the essentials of writing a successful teaching case study.