DOI: 10.5176/2251-1970_BizStrategy13.33
Authors: Bashir Amanjee, Teresa Carmichael
Abstract: This study analysed the experiences of MBA students who were members of syndicate groups whilst engaged in an MBA program. Questions regarding the effectiveness of syndicate groups were raised when a number of study groups were spontaneously formed by students, even though the school advised that the syndicate groups created by the school were created as the ideal vehicle for learning, where interaction and debate could flourish.
Initial findings indicated that personality and other team-related dynamics were at the root of the ineffectiveness within syndicate groups. In addition, sharing the same goal was a feature of the voluntary study groups, but not necessarily syndicate groups. Lack of alignment impacted team relationships and learning potential. Study groups on the other hand, created environments for its members that were devoid of personality clashes, political posturing, individual egos and other dynamics which inhibited team development.
In many respects, study groups were largely representative of cooperative learning groups, both in terms of function and outcome, and represents a key learning opportunity for the business school in terms of its operationalization of syndicate groups. Business schools should reevaluate their assumptions about effective group learning, and modify the assessments to maximize team effectiveness and learning. Students need to embrace opportunities to facilitate their own group processes (including embracing diversity and dealing effectively with conflict) to achieve their goals.
Keywords: Study groups; collaborative learning; group learning; MBA;
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