MBA Teaching media

Although in one sense a subset of teaching approach, the use of media in teaching is so important it warrants a separate section. Information and communication technologies (ICTs), in particular, have become a transforming force in management and management education, the full effects of which have yet to be envisaged. These developments have had an effect on the curriculum, with e-commerce and knowledge management courses highly popular at present. More importantly, they have impacted upon almost all the basic components of conventional teaching.

Consider the traditional ‘building blocks’ of education. Information was transmitted by a lecturer or textbook. Understanding was increased through questions to the lecturer and seminar discussion, and tested in examinations. The physical presence of students in lecture room or library was essential.

Distance learning has allowed this physical presence to be dispensed with. ‘Lectures’ are transformed into printed workbooks and/or video and audio tapes, or delivered via a CD-Rom. Necessary readings may be compiled into books and mailed to students, or web links provided to them. Telephone or e-mail allows students to receive answers to specific questions or to discuss things in ‘virtual’ tutorial groups. Web pages can hold tests which you sit at your leisure, and from which you receive automatic feedback. You can submit substantial assignments electronically and receive tutor comments almost immediately. Via the Internet you can attend ‘lectures’, and access not only the equivalent of a first-class library, but also an almost infinite variety of more transient and current (albeit often less reliable) materials.

Opinions are at present divided on how best to exploit the technical options for teaching. The latest ICT developments can be sources of frustration as well as excitement. Equipment or software incompatibilities may waste hours or even days of valuable time. Searching the World Wide Web without some guidance can positively devour time, and produce results ranging from amazingly good to worthless. Trying to study quantities of material directly from a screen is for many far more difficult than working from good quality print. Conferencing with fellow students round the globe can produce fascinating insights, but on the whole is less exciting than a good face to face debate followed by a visit to the pub.

Because your own situation and preferences are important here, and things are changing so quickly, this is another dimension which you will need to research carefully when making your choice. Bear in mind the quality of materials and interaction in the media used, the likely learning efficiency, and whether you will feel comfortable with, and enjoy using, the different media on offer.
Read More : MBA Teaching media