Listening to and Learning from Case Conversations

• In Event: Constructing Educational Possibilities Through Normative Case Study Conversations

Abstract

This pedagogical analysis focuses on the theory and practice of normative case study conversations and their extension of the knowledge gained from the cases themselves. The authors offer insight into the philosophical underpinnings of the case conversations and the decision to include multi-perspectival conversations, rather than individually-authored commentaries, in the volumes in the symposium. In particular, the authors focus on the philosophy behind the case discussion protocol, which asks participants to put off the moment of decision making until they have fully explored the values and principles that contribute to the ethical dilemmas in the case. Along with this theoretical insight, the authors discuss practical tools and major themes gleaned from a birds-eye view on the two volumes together. Finally, the authors provide different ways to use the model conversations presented alongside the cases, for their insights into the ethical dilemmas presented in cases or as starting points for discussions in their own right.

Authors

• Tatiana Geron, Harvard University

• Ellis Reid, The Spencer Foundation