Presenters:
Charles J. F. Leflar, University of Arkansas
Deborah W. Thomas, University of Arkansas
Description:
The AICPA Core Competency Framework for entering the accounting profession includes problem-solving and decision-making skills. The first step in problem solving is fact finding. (See Cougar, Creativity and Innovation, Boyd & Fraser Publishing, 1996). However, this stage in decision making is usually omitted from classroom discussion and assignments because students are presented with case facts. Our session will focus on how to give students an exercise in problem solving that includes fact finding.
A faculty volunteer is recruited to play the role of a client, allowing students to elicit the facts of a case problem. Before the interview, students must familiarize themselves with the topic so that they have the background knowledge to ask the right questions and follow up, depending on the client's answers. The presentation will focus on a successful adaptation of this method in an introductory tax class, but will also give suggestions for its use in other courses, such as auditing or managerial accounting.
The benefits of this classroom exercise include: (1) polishing client interview skills; (2) practicing problem solving and research skills; (3) increasing student interest and participation in the subject; (4) emphasizing the need for advance preparation; and (5) a fun class period.
