A REFLECTIVE NOTE ON LEARNING THROUGH CASE METHOD
Cases are a unique source of learning combining Pratyaksha, Paroksha and Aparoksha.
a. Pratyaksha: (Prati+Aksha) Prati means that which is opposite, aksha means eyes. Eyes are the representative of all the senses. At a first level, we learn through that which is opposite to our eyes or those within the perceptible.
Cases provide us facts and looking into facts will help us learn.
b. Paroksha: (Para+Aksha) Para means that which is beyond and aksha means eyes (representing all senses). We learn from that which is beyond the senses too. For example, intelligence.
It is said “Paroksha Priyahi Vai Devaha” – great people like to do or say things indirectly. Sages never revealed anything directly. Instead they used analogies, metaphors, rituals and stories. If they would have revealed the answer, we get fixed in our mind that there is only one answer and more importantly we lose the chance of directly experiencing the solution.
Cases provide a context of problem solving and provides a chance to reflect and use intelligence.
If teachers provide answers to the cases, they are committing a big sin. They are harming the participants by disallowing to experience the process of evolving to a solution.
c. Aparoksha: Learning what is beyond Paroksha (Aa+Para+Aksha). This knowledge is what is not perceptible. This is the highest form of learning that come with rigorous practice of Paroksha. This is Transcendental. Where senses, mind and intelligence are kept dormant and you reflect. It helps you experience the knowledge through self-realization (Tat Tvam Asi). Such knowledge can be equated sometimes to wisdom.
Because wisdom can't be told[1], it has to be experienced. Cases are a great source of wisdom. The more you practice, the more wisdom you gain.
If one is finding solutions in their dreams (a state of aparoksha), they are not just experiencing the path but also are gaining wisdom.
Bottomline: Cases are a source of liberating our thoughts and make us better equipped in solving problems. When you discuss within a group or in a class with a facilitator, you would move from Pratyaksha to Paroksha form of learning. When you start contemplating on various alternatives subsequent to the class discussion you will move from Paroksha to Aparoksha form of learning. At this stage you are all alone. All that you learn is the wisdom you have gained. It is unique to you.
If anyone wants that experience of LEARNING;
Never ask a facilitator – what is the solution to a case?
LONG LIVE CASE METHOD
[1] Gragg – 1951
Most of us agree about the usefulness of case study method for learning. I feel its the collaboration between the industry and the academia that is required to have Indian case studies with whom we all are familiar. Let us think how we can do it
Professor at Institute of Rural Management Anand
4 年Interesting! I like this.
Business Consultant (Digital Transformation) at Tech Mahindra | IIM Kozhikode | NIFT Chennai
4 年Pedagogy of choice ????