Comments on Plenary Session by James G. March and Anthony G. Hopwood

Abstract

The main focus of this article is to provide follow up discussion on two papers presented by Anthony Hopwood and James March. The breadth of this discussion concentrates on two themes introduced in the Hopwood and March papers.

The first theme introduced is for individuals in teaching and textbooks to “account for accounting practice.” It is proposed that managerial accounting topics should not be presented in isolation with their value assumed but rather made clear that these applications form a part of a complex fabric of informational and organizational structures. Hopwood proposed that managerial accounting should be viewed through a lens that recognizes the roles played by culture, regulation and politics, which in turn recognize the role management accounting systems has had in shaping social values. Consequently Professors March and Hopwood have petitioned for the writing of textbooks that adopt a broader view of managerial accounting. One that addresses the complexities of the settings in which managerial accounting systems has evolved.

Currently, managerial accounting texts place great emphasis on normative perspectives, with limited insights into the actual techniques practiced. However, the author makes it a point to say that one should not be overly critical of today’s pedagogy. Technology has made accounting education they way it is. Based on this perspective the two papers presented by March and Hopwood provided a good starting point for the evolution of accounting education.

The second major theme discussed by the author is “accounting for accounting research.” Basically, this theme states there is a need to better understand the process by which one comes to understand accounting. He suggests that one must keep an open mind regarding the potential contribution of alternative methodologies. In addition, in understanding accounting for accounting research one must take note of the role of technology and its impact on research costs. Thus, the author believes that in following the advice of Professors March and Hopwood one will see important steps in the evolution of accounting education. (Summary by Michele Martinez)