ACTION LEARNING

A Brief Introduction to the Action Learning Program

Action Learning gives students exposure to a real-life business project meeting both a set deadline and client expectations. The program enhances the educational experience of our students allowing them to put theories into practice, testing and adjusting their skills and knowledge.  Action Learning is a requirement for MBA and Master of Science students.  Senior undergraduate business students may elect to participate in Action Learning.  The main theme of projects is process improvement.  Projects usually have a sub-theme. For example: business strategy, organizational development, management control and reporting, etc.  The nature of the project depends on the interests and needs of the participating organizations.

The students participate in intensive seminars to learn strategies for organizing the projects and working effectively with their client organizations.  Faculty coaches assist the student teams with regular ongoing coaching sessions.  Action Learning spans one academic semester (12 weeks).  Student teams are comprised of 3-4 members with each student working approximately 10 hours per week on the project. 

Action Learning teams are highly qualified students; however, they may have limited experience with your particular industry.  We encourage you to be open to their suggestions based on theory – and at the same time challenge them with your experience from practice.

By participating in this program, your organization has an opportunity to affect the way we train tomorrow’s leaders.  In return, our students will help with a specific business problem using the latest problem solving techniques and business tools available.

MBA students on an Action Learning assignment work on a market feasibility study with CEO Colin Drummond of iACTIV, a Cleveland based bioscience firm specializing in the manufacture of high-technology miniature air control valves (MEMS) used in computer monitors for the blind.