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2007 IMBA Teaching Awards: Bringing Theory to Life

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All of this year’s winners of the IMBA Faculty Awards, presented on May 8, explain in their own words how they bring otherwise dry, quantitative and technical theory to life through real-world examples that illustrate their importance and critical applications.

Dr. Scott Jackson, Assistant Professor, Accounting
IMBA Core Professor—Columbia, Management Accounting in the Global Environment

"Teaching in the IMBA program is extremely rewarding because I have the good fortune to teach a large number of bright, hardworking, and interesting individuals. Accounting is one of those subjects that students initially believe to be largely irrelevant for their career aspirations. However, managers must have command of the proper use of accounting information in order to make economically efficient decisions, which is why I illustrate vital accounting concepts using realistic cases. By the time students have completed the accounting courses, students have grown to appreciate the importance of accounting and are eager to put their new knowledge to good use."

Dr. Gary A. Luoma, Distinguished Professor Emeritus, Accounting
IMBA Core Professor—Europe, Financial Accounting

 “I've taught the Financial Accounting core course in the IMBA-Europe program several times. We use a combination of lecture, discussion, cases and problem solving. As each class meeting is two hours long, we try to combine several techniques each day. A heavy dose of technical material, a bit of humor, many references to Krispy Kreme donuts, and some acting get us through the two hours. As the students are an integral part of each class meeting, they are encouraged to participate in the daily discussions. During our three weeks together, the students learn just how exciting accounting can be as a major contributor to the success of our international economy. In addition, they get some inside information on the usefulness of debits and credits in the preparation of financial statements.”

Dr. Mike Galbreth, Assistant Professor, Management Science
IMBA Elective Professor, Service Operations

“Although the quantitative aspects of the course can be challenging, students understand that, to be world-class managers, they need to be aware of the capabilities of all the tools at their disposal. This includes technical methods such as simulation modeling, geographical information systems, and waiting line analysis (also known by its more intimidating moniker, “ queuing theory”). I use cases extensively to frame strategic discussions, as well as to give the students a feel for how each quantitative technique is used to support managerial decision-making in the real world. For example, our coverage of revenue management helps students understand the sometimes-baffling practices of overbooking and dynamic pricing in service firms such as airlines and hotels. I also discuss numerous examples from the popular press, frequently referring the students to articles in The Wall Street Journal and other publications that describe applications of the tools and concepts we are covering in class.

To see all the 2007 IMBA awards, click here. 

Suzanne Axland
June 2007