The Hobo Method and the Experience from its Application

The hobo-method is one of the forms of the group solution of problems which consists in laying down usually six most important problems concerning a definite section of a subject, then two of these six problems are selected and allocated to a course member who chooses one of the two allocated problems at his own discretion, gets acquainted with the relevant literature in his home study, studies this question in the everyday practice of his enterprise, and works out a written solution of the problem on two pages and in two copies. The problems to be elaborated in writing are invariably assigned before the lecture on the theme concerned. At the beginning of the next lecture the written solutions of the assigned problems are handed in by course members to the lecturer, who prepares a specially organized group discussion followed by a discussion in plenary session. An obvious advantage of this method is the fact that it assures continuity between the lecture, individual study, and active discussion on the main problems of a given section of the subject concerned. The author gives the theoretical explanation, methodological approach, and experience gained in applying this method in a course for managers.