A Note on Reading Books
4 Pages Posted: 21 Oct 2008
Abstract
This note explains the role of books, especially classics, in the business school curriculum. It proposes a method for reading books both actively and critically. It concludes with a brief analysis of the concept of reading as a creative act.
Excerpt
UVA-BC-0026
A NOTE ON READING BOOKS
Introduction
Books are longer and more complex than the standard materials used in a business school curriculum, therefore requiring that students apply sharp analytical skills. The purpose of this note is to explore some methods and techniques for reading books in the context of a case method curriculum. Throughout this note, “books” refers to fiction and non‑fiction, not textbooks.
The Purpose of Reading Books
Good books can deepen our understanding of management. They provide us with models and theories that can be applied to decisions we will face. Books provide detailed descriptions of how various people have dealt with issues that are relevant to managers. They can also simply give us ideas that we've never thought of before.
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Keywords: communication process, education, higher, management philosophy, pedagogy
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