Really? Of course not, but both are/were stuck within a rigid framework of rules and archaic expectations that limits autonomy. Even my current teacher, who is a former Global Director for a former multi-billion dollar pharmeceutical company (since absorbed by Pzifer) and touts his lack of a PhD and academic lean as a practical advantage, stays within this invisible paradigm. I just don't see the practicality in it.
I'm curious because the capstone (final/cumulative) course for my MBA degree is almost identical to my undergrad capstone, raised to the nth degree in expectations and difficulty. So, since 2008, nothing has happened to make SJU rethink how they teach the final integrative class in their MBA program? Really? Other classes have amped up their attention to ethics, but its been mostly lip service. Additionally, the most substantive difference in my classes from undergrad have been some hands on group projects with outside non-for profits.
My suggestions to improve MBA curriculums:
Apply and go: Teach a concept and shoot right into a practical, problem-solving activity that applies it. Often times, classes discuss a current event, concept, strategy, etc and it is held for homework or a project at a later date. The idea becomes much more 'sticky' if you can immediately attach an experience or memorable event to it.
Surprise Me: Grad school is awesome. No pop quizzes, very little extemporaneous speaking, and nothing is given outside the syllabus. Unfortunately, this is not to my ultimate advantage because the nature of business is reacting to change in anticipation of future events. Even if my grade eats it, please surprise me, please challenge me, and please try to recreate the real world as much as possible. Even better, surprise me, critique me, expose my flaw to my peers for my benefit- then leave it off the record books.
Partnerships: Following the above allusion to real world problems, Id like to see a stronger presence from local business owners/operators /executives in my class (aside from the adjust teaching it). Bringing in real world success stories to teach lessons and engage the class would add real value. Im not talking a 45 minute lecture on accounting standards or innovation, but some sort of eye opening experience or exercise to teach through invorgation. And hopefully, the time goes so quickly the prof wont have to stall the class out in third gear trying to use the final 35 minutes of class to 1/2 ass his way through 3 chapters of lectures just because it's on the syllabus.
Go forth and prosper, business schools!
Go forth and prosper, business schools!
