An active learning strategy for the classroom—“who wants to win … some mini chips ahoy?”

Skillfully presenting technical accounting material has been identified as an important dimension of effective teaching [Issues in Accounting Education (1993) 8(2), 436]. Faculty may more effectively present material by modifying the traditional lecture approach to incorporate visual-based instruction and increase student involvement through active learning exercises. One approach to presenting accounting material more effectively is described in this article. A “Who Wants to Win…?” game, similar to that seen on television, is constructed with the instructor in the role of master of ceremonies and one class member, a group, or the entire class in the role of contestants. The method described can be adapted and used to present a variety of accounting topics. Anecdotal evidence from two very different college classroom settings indicates a high level of student enjoyment, increased class participation, and an increased level of advance preparation on the part of the students. While a significant amount of material is presented in a concise, novel, and effective manner, the game provides a relaxed classroom atmosphere for the students and an enjoyable method of presentation for the instructor.