Facilitation · 60-90 minute sessions
The HBS Case Method
A participant-centered instructional strategy that immerses learners in real-world scenarios, requiring them to step into the role of decision-makers. The method shifts the focus from passive lecture to active discovery, where the instructor facilitates a high-stakes dialogue to solve complex, ambiguous problems.
When to use The HBS Case Method
Ideal for topics requiring critical thinking, strategic decision-making, and the application of theory to messy, real-world situations where multiple valid solutions may exist.
How The HBS Case Method works
Facilitators integrate this by selecting a narrative-driven 'case,' creating a detailed discussion map rather than a script, and preparing to pivot between roles such as moderator, devil's advocate, and judge based on the flow of student contributions.
Phases of The HBS Case Method
- Preparing to Teach
- Leading in the Classroom
- Providing Assessment & Feedback
Key principles
- Managing uncertainty as a core instructional skill
- Balancing rigorous planning with classroom spontaneity
- Instructor as a fellow-student and moderator
- Focusing on 'teachable moments' over a fixed agenda
- Collaborative discovery through peer-to-peer reflection
Best for
- Leadership development
- Strategic analysis
- Ethical decision-making
- Applied management skills
Considerations
- Requires significant pre-work and preparation from both students and instructors
- Success depends on the facilitator's ability to manage group dynamics and psychological safety
- Less effective for teaching rote facts or foundational technical skills without context
Attribution & sources
Developed by C. Roland Christensen and the faculty of Harvard Business School
Design a session with The HBS Case Method
METODIC builds a complete The HBS Case Method-based session — methods, timing, worksheets, and facilitator guides — in minutes.