When you interview recent MBA graduates about the highlights of their two years, you are very likely to hear about their experience doing case work in the field. They loved the social aspects of school and were inspired by their professors, but it is often the work they did practicing what they learned in the real world where they gained the most.
This is not surprising. Experiential learning is an increasingly embraced strategy for professional schools including MBA programs. Experiential learning expands the classroom beyond the tedious didactic lecture and text books to intentional reflection on work done by observing the real world and applying skills to real world challenges.
Experiential learning works because it enables students to practice what they learn and take ownership of it. It goes from being something you heard and read to something you have done and can add to your growing toolbox.
This evolution in pedagogy has coincided with another — the growing demand among students for socially conscious careers. MBA students want to apply their skills to positive social outcomes. They are attracted to MBA programs that provide them with opportunities to work in the community and build their portfolios for careers at socially conscious companies.
