From vicious circle to virtuous circle: Overcoming compartmentalisation in management learning

Ottewill, Roger, McKenzie, George and Leah, Jean (2003) From vicious circle to virtuous circle: Overcoming compartmentalisation in management learning (Discussion Papers in Management, M03-9) Southampton, UK. University of Southampton 24pp.

Abstract

Arguably one of the greatest challenges faced by management educators is that of curtailing the compartmentalisation that so often characterises the design and delivery of degree programmes at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. A compartmentalised curriculum results in students acquiring a fragmented and distorted view of the nature of management that subsequently informs their practice and perpetuates and reinforces existing divisions. Various learning and teaching strategies have been developed to overcome compartmentalisation, including integrated cores, team teaching and problem- based learning.

These however are only likely to be completely successful if the environment within which students learn itself reflects a truly integrated approach to management. We argue that organisational structures, culture and procedures in higher education need to embody and exemplify the principles of proactive and coordinated planning and option appraisal, pluralism and team work, as well as arrangements for managing conflict, thereby demonstrating the importance of integration for effective management.

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