Technology is Evolving Executive MBA Programs

Technology is helping in every aspect of our life, from remembering birthdays to learning a new subject. For students, technology has provided a different aspect of learning methods, a flexibility to attend classes on their schedule while accessing self-growth in an organized structure. For teachers, technology has made the teaching methodology to go beyond conventional text-based learning methods. Engaging students in a meaningful way, technology has presented us with versatile learning tools that have changed the way of demonstrating concepts, assigning projects, correcting exam papers or accessing a student’s progress.
When it comes to an executive MBA program, the real journey starts after clearing an entrance exam like CAT, GMAT or GRE as students are of a different genre. They are working students, most have them having demanding jobs, family lives and a then an MBA curriculum to complete with completing assignments and taking tests. Technology is a boon for such people as it gives them the opportunity to attend classes online, complete assignments over the system and submit them online.

Let us see how some colleges can adapt technology via two simple methods.

1) Squeeze some of the content online

This can scale down the number of on-campus visits for students. Additionally, such blended format can complement on-campus sessions with videos simulation and discussion board. Also, students can submit their presentation online to be reviewed by professor or peers and can utilize in person time having meaningful discussions. Further, this system would not impact hours of a curriculum, it will just tweak the length of classroom learning and having impactful sessions.

2) Online distance learning sessions

This means a professor teaches the students in real time via technology. While the classroom sessions can then be consumed with meaningful discussion and case-based solutions rather than just technical explanations about the subject. There are a number of tools available for connecting students and professor online in real time like Adobe Connect. This solution is cost effective for a college as well as for student.

The idea is not taking a course completely offline and making student-teacher interaction minimum, but to make that interaction as effective as possible considering the value of money and time for the students. Adopting a 25-75 ratio of online to offline classes would help a lot to the executive MBA students in balancing their work, education, and personal life.

This is just the starting, though many universities have to adopt these methods induced by technology but some have adopted these methods and are helping their students achieve flexibility and novel learning methods.

Education comes first, technology is just a helping hand. It is not a substitute for in-person interactions but aids in utilizing the time wisely and with meaningful discussions.