Enhancing business professional competencies in a virtual educational environment. Issue 3 (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bishop-Monroe, Robbie; Jordan, Matthew; Ma, Zecong; Royalty, Kent
• Is Part Of: International journal of management education. Volume 20:Issue 3(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Project-based learning -- Professional competency -- Virtual learning; Business education -- Periodicals; Management -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Periodicals; 650.0711
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijme.2022.100700
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1472-8117

Abstract

Abstract: This paper provides an example of the successful incorporation of a virtual project-based learning (PBL) assignment as a significant component of two business courses during the COVID-19 pandemic. In these courses, undergraduate accounting and global business students worked with local nonprofits to solve real-world business problems in a virtual environment. This collaboration afforded students the opportunity to practice professional competency skills while growing in their understanding of business and of nonprofits. This paper discusses the challenges and successes that occurred during the implementation of the virtual project, encourages the use of PBL and other innovative teaching projects when teaching online, and facilitates faculty design and implementation of virtual learning programs. Highlights: Virtual field project-based learning is an effective way of improving students' professional competencies. A virtual project framework provides a way for preparing, executing, and evaluating projects in an online environment. Project-based learning can assist with enhancing virtual learning and help students gain real-world work experience. Virtual learning can be enhanced with projects between students and external organizations. A virtual project is an innovative way to teach students.