Class Discussion in an Online MBA Program
Consistent engagement in class discussions, group projects, and discussion boards is proven to lead to deeper learning and growth in digital classrooms. Learn how Baylor is promoting these types of interactions in their Online MBA program.
Class Discussion in an Online MBA Program
For those who came of age in a traditional classroom environment, a digital classroom would seem to be one with greater distances between professors and students, and between students. In fact, technology offers so many new ways of holding class discussions that one could argue that the opposite is true. Online technologies are fostering more interactions and more meaningful and enriching learning engagements than ever before.
Live Office Hours and Recorded Lectures
Baylor's Online MBA program is structured to support working professionals in different time zones, so all lectures are recorded for students to access them at any time.
Upon enrollment, Laura Vanderslice, a current Online MBA student, was impressed by Baylor’s ability to make their online students feel connected, given the digital format. “Though we’re online, I have met so many people in the OMBA program and have never felt isolated. I feel I have the best of both worlds - the Baylor experience with the flexibility of online curriculum.”
In a traditional classroom, for example, asking questions may be limited because it is typically deemed rude to raise a hand while the professor is speaking. Online, however, students have the flexibility to ask questions in real time or after the lecture, via the message board. The professor or lecturer has the option to answer the question during the lecture, at its conclusion, or by sending the student an email or personal message.
In open Q&A sessions, or more commonly referred to as Office Hours, students can virtually pose questions to the lecturer and peers with the use of a webcam and/or microphone. Office Hours are optional and live for those who can attend and recorded for those who cannot. Anyone can respond, enabling lively and open discussions.
Online Discussion Boards
In Baylor’s Online MBA program, online discussion boards are integral to the experience, and for good reason. According to U.S. News & World Report, "Online faculty assign discussion board questions because there is an overwhelming amount of research saying students deeply learn and grow through frequent conversations and debates on salient academic topics. Researchers say the online forum promotes deeper engagement with subject matter and gives a voice to those feeling stigmatized."
Online discussion boards are flexible, with many ways to engage, participate, receive feedback and support fellow students. Discussion board activities are integrated into each course, with the instructor typically posing a question or assigning a reading or viewing of a multimedia presentation. Professors often refer students to online discussion boards as a means of continuing the conversation from the day's lesson. They may start the next class with a summary or highlights from the online discussion.
As part of an assignment, students are often required to post their thoughts as well as respond and elaborate on their peer's postings. Students may also ask questions of the instructor and request feedback. At times, they may also submit links to online resources including articles, podcasts and videos. As with in-person discussions, Baylor professors moderate the tone and civility of the discussion to ensure fairness.
In some discussion forums, when someone posts a comment, everyone can immediately see and react to it. In what is known as "post first" discussions, interactions are withheld until the student submits a post, which unlocks the rest of the discussion. This allows a student to express him or herself first, without being influenced by the professor or peers.
All of these interactive activities allow students to immediately apply what they learn, which aids in retention of course material. The experience also prepares students to become stronger communicators and team players in the workplace, because the platform shares features with collaborative business software.
Group Projects
Baylor uses a best-in-class learning management system that integrates with innovative applications to support group projects. These connectivity tools not only replicate the experience of working on a team, they also offer options for video conferences, private and group messaging, and media sharing to enhance productivity. These tools have built-in accountability features to ensure all students pull their weight. Often, groups are pre-selected by the instructor, but there are times when students can choose their collaborators and form a complementary team.
The value of group projects includes working within a group dynamic and developing leadership and communication skills that are increasingly required by employers. With a diverse group of peers to enhance the learning environment, projects become more engaging and provide a more vast perspective on common business issues. Professors select these groups with diversity of demographics, career experience, thought processes and more in mind.
Advice From Baylor Faculty for Engaging Online
The value of the virtual class experience is best shared in the following advice from our faculty to current and prospective online students:
"No doubt, during the time in which you are earning your Online MBA, you have a lot to juggle. Students that have been successful in the program set aside different blocks of time during the week, in which they can know they can focus on coursework. This is your time to really dive in to learn everything you can. If you have scheduled times, it will keep you from getting behind. Also, know that the Baylor faculty is available - never hesitate to reach out." - Gary Carini, PhD; Vice Provost for Institutional Research and Professional Education, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Corporate Innovation
"Many of your classmates will have great work experience from a variety of industries that will enable them to share rich insights with the rest of the class. So don't miss out on the opportunity to learn from each other." - Tim Kayworth, PhD; Former Professor of Information Systems
"One of the most valuable parts of an MBA program is community. The business world calls this networking, but it goes deeper - it is about building connections, encouraging and serving one another. The importance of building relationships goes beyond making a professional connection, although that is a start. Building genuine community and personal connections is core to who we are as a Christian business school. Be generous with your time and invest in relationship building and serving one another every chance you get." - Josh Strakos, PhD; Clinical Associate Professor of Management
What's Next
If you’re ready to take the next step pursuing your MBA online, consider reaching out to our enrollment coaching team. We can answer questions about your fit for the program, curriculum, admissions, and more. Complete the form below, and our team will contact you directly.
