Learning from mistakes? Using corporate scandals to enhance audit teaching

Abstract

This paper examines the introduction of a case-based method of teaching auditing on courses for final year undergraduates. Set against the context of recent proclamations about the need to reform or change undergraduate accounting programmes, this method seeks to enhance students' understanding of the conflict-ridden world of auditing by requiring them to investigate and report on particular contemporary and historic corporate scandals. The paper reviews the structure, aims and objectives of the course, the selection of the scandals and the methodology required in terms of completing the assignment. It explores the process of implementation and highlights several educational benefits and the possibilities for development in relation to other courses. In particular, the paper challenges claims that corporate scandals are not an appropriate educational vehicle due to their complexity or unrepresentativeness of general audit practice.