Abstract

In this seminar, Bernstein’s (1975) concepts of classification and framing – together with the related notions of the collection code and integrated code – will be introduced to analyze the discussion questions of university professors who incorporated case studies in their graduate-level education and business courses. As a theoretical framework to illuminate the questioning process in a case discussion, I used classification and framing to examine discussion leader’s questions that facilitate students’ understanding of a case. Results from this investigation identify values related to the questioning process that purportedly fosters graduate students’ communication skills, critically thinking abilities, and problem solving proficiencies. I will explore some of the influences of case-based studies on learners’ knowledge, skills, and values. I will query whether these and other abilities contribute to the development of an epistemology of practice in reflective practitioners.