Denise Gochenouer

(Southwest Minnesota State University, USA)

 

 

Abstract: This paper delineates the use of a national competition as a teaching tool. We show that the use of collaboration, cooperative, experiential, constructivism and concept application are beneficial to helping students “learn to learn”. The idea of competition encourages students to work together towards a shared goal. The objective of winning a competition serves as a main motivator in using the theories learned in class and applying them to real-world situations while working together. Students are cognizant of a tangible reward when they complete the specified assignment. It offers an incentive and thus increases their motivation. Marketing educators have increasingly incorporated experiential learning in the classroom primarily because of the practicality of the discipline (Brennan, 2014). Furthermore, when students-teachers are interactive and feel they have contributed in some way to the learning process it enhances learning (McLoughlin, 1999). This paper discusses applicable classes used to effectively complete projects judged by business executives in a national competition. We will show that this methodology works and can be applied in the classroom with our current students. Generation Z are more apt to be more involved with companies and activities that are deemed to have social causes. But they are not team players (Igel & Urquhart, 2012). As educators we want to ensure that we meet the needs of this generation in so far as applicability and meaningfulness. Therefore it is prudent to connect the real-world application to the activities we engage in within the classroom. Still we want to emphasize the importance and benefit of team work. Thus a national competition that focuses on social responsibility while improving the livelihood of others seems like an appropriate model to use for this type of instruction.

 

 

Key words: collaborative learning; cooperative learning; constructivism; experiential learning; national

competition; teaching; marketing; educators

 

JEL codes: A2, M3, M32, M37