Assessing emphasis gaps among MBA alumni: a model framework. (3rd May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Van Auken, Stuart; Chrysler, Earl; Wells, Ludmilla Gricenko
• Is Part Of: Journal of international education in business. Volume 9:Number 1(2016)
• Page Start: 31
• Page End: 51
• Publication Date: 2016-05-03
• Subjects: Service delivery -- Gap analysis -- Management expectations -- MBA education -- Program emphasis; Business -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Periodicals; Business education -- Periodicals; Foreign study -- Periodicals; 658.00711
• DOI: 10.1108/JIEB-07-2015-0018
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2046-469X

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: This paper aims to focus on Master of Business Administration (MBA) alumni and their ability to provide institution-specific insights into MBA program delivery. Given desired MBA positioning dimensions, a case exemplar is used to reveal gaps between "should have" program emphases and "actual" emphases. Departures from expectations are used to reveal either under- or over-emphases which require repair. Design/methodology/approach: The study develops a gap assessment procedure and the theory of gaps, and it presents insights into the prioritization of gaps for closing through the revelation of gap themes of varying magnitude. It also reveals the benefits and the limitations of emphasis-based gap assessments. Additionally, the study addresses the complexity of creating the dimensional structure for MBA program gap revelation. Findings: This paper reports on the issues of framing dimensions, including the possibility of dimensional omissions, with a particular emphasis on the utilization of an emphasis-based gap model within an a priori identified structure. Practical implications: The methodological approach provides a blueprint for additional program review, and it produces a strong structural base for MBA program positioning. It is also is particularly important in evaluating newly created one-year MBA programs. Originality/value: The work reveals the potential for the revelation of both under- and over-emphases in MBA program delivery and the possible issue of sub-optimization in gap closing (i.e. the closing of one gap while opening another).