Examining an experiential learning approach to prepare students for the volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) work environment. Issue 1 (March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Seow, Poh-Sun; Pan, Gary; Koh, Grace
• Is Part Of: International journal of management education. Volume 17:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 62
• Page End: 76
• Publication Date: 2019-03
• Subjects: Experiential learning -- VUCA work environment -- Real world problems -- Problem-solving skills; Business education -- Periodicals; Management -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Periodicals; 650.0711
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijme.2018.12.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1472-8117

Abstract

Abstract: Due to the constantly changing work environment, there is a need for universities to produce students who can adapt in a volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) work environment. A university in Singapore introduced its UNIS-X experiential learning pedagogy to prepare her students with future work skills to cope with a VUCA work environment. The UNIS-X approach encompasses four principles (project-based learning; interdisciplinarity; close collaboration between faculty and external partners; and active mentoring) in a single course. The aim of this study is to examine the effectiveness of the UNIS-X experiential learning pedagogy. Although the UNIS-X group has a higher improvement of problem-solving skills compared to the non-UNIS-X group, the difference was not significant. However, the findings from focus group discussions indicate that students shared positive feedback on the effectiveness of the UNIS-X pedagogy in developing their cognitive, interpersonal and intrapersonal competencies. Students were positive about their UNIS-X experiential learning journey.