Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
This first collaborative experience should go as smoothly as possible to help students
build confidence, but we also need to communicate that difficult clients are a reality, inside
or outside the organization. Students who pursue consulting careers or choose to work within
private or government organizations will find their share of difficult clients. It is necessary
to guide a class through these unknowns, and hopefully, the learning outcomes will far
outweigh the effort, for the professor and the student population. Although the survey
numbers do not necessarily reflect it, verbal comments from students at the end of the course
are that they liked the course and learned from the project experience. Better yet, occasional
notes from graduates reflected that they really learned useful concepts and tools in the class
and ranked it as one of their best.
Further research needs to be conducted in the area of team processes and how to teach
them in an academic environment. A follow-up survey after students enter the workforce
might tell a better story about the value of team projects, and which type proved the most
beneficial to workforce success. Ideally, a coordinated effort among business core courses
can enhance our individual successes. While we probably cannot address the complete soft
skill needs of our students, we can strive for a higher level of achievement and a smoother
transition for them into their new careers.
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