The Discussion Group Experience
Overview
BenefitsExpand AllCollapse All
Gain a better understanding of the case materialsGain a better understanding of the case materials
Practice teaching and learning from othersPractice teaching and learning from others
"Test-market" ideas and opinions before class"Test-market" ideas and opinions before class
Get to know a handful of people more deeplyGet to know a handful of people more deeply
Gain a better understanding of the case materials
Practice teaching and learning from others
"Test-market" ideas and opinions before class
Get to know a handful of people more deeply
Best PracticesExpand AllCollapse All
Designate one discussion leaderDesignate one discussion leader
Ensure 100 percent attendanceEnsure 100 percent attendance
Expect 100 percent participationExpect 100 percent participation
Encourage challenging viewpointsEncourage challenging viewpoints
Stay focused and use time wiselyStay focused and use time wisely
Accept responsibility to learn and teachAccept responsibility to learn and teach
Designate one discussion leader
Ensure 100 percent attendance
Expect 100 percent participation
Encourage challenging viewpoints
Stay focused and use time wisely
Accept responsibility to learn and teach
What can I expect on the first day?
Most programs begin with registration, followed by an opening session and a dinner. If your travel plans necessitate late arrival, please be sure to notify us so that alternate registration arrangements can be made for you. Please note the following about registration:
HBS campus programs – Registration takes place in the Chao Center.
India programs – Registration takes place outside the classroom.
Other off-campus programs – Registration takes place in the designated facility.
What happens in class if nobody talks?
Professors are here to push everyone to learn, but not to embarrass anyone. If the class is quiet, they'll often ask a participant with experience in the industry in which the case is set to speak first. This is done well in advance so that person can come to class prepared to share. Trust the process. The more open you are, the more willing you’ll be to engage, and the more alive the classroom will become.
Does everyone take part in "role-playing"?
Professors often encourage participants to take opposing sides and then debate the issues, often taking the perspective of the case protagonists or key decision makers in the case.