ISB and class participation

CLASS PARTICIPATION

The concept of class participation is central to the study methodology at many B-Schools world over. Class participation ensures that students come prepared to the class with questions, answers, opinions and arguments. But, there are three players that decide what you take away from a class that depends on such a methodology- your preparation, others in the class and last but the most critical - The Professor. Class participation as a methodology is more a test of the Professor I feel. The professor needs to balance between control and participation from the class so that there is coherence and learning at the same time.

From a student's perspective, class participation needs arms of steel, reaction that could make Roger Federer blush and a booming voice that roars for attention. Reminds me of Mohammed Ali's statement- Fly like a butterfly, sting like a bee. And, if you can do that you my friend have a talent and an 8 on 8 in class participation.

OCCAM'S RAZOR

The one thing that one realises while going through ream upon ream of case material is that the solution to all great problems in life/work have a beautiful simple solution. The simpicity with which Alexander cut through the Gordian knot is case to the point.

And, it was with the same surgical beauty that Ziev Katlan taught us Monte Carlo simulation on crystal ball (In that liquor case crystal boll!!!). The passion for the subject and the involvement of the professor comes accross when you look at him explainining a small point for over two hours and I sat there in stunned attention listening and seeing the dramatic instruction style. And, his response to the silence to his question in the class-DONT LOOOK At MEE, LOOOK At THEE BOARRD!!! The answer is there.

An overly complicated reply to a question, elicited a passionate NOOOOOOOOO! from Ziev and then came the advice that I take away from the course- Keeep it siimple!!

And, it is in this advice I found resonance to what Waterman taught us in the Multiple Regression class- OCCAM'S RAZOR. Keep it Simple!!!!