AUTHENTIC ENGAGEMENT THROUGH WORKPLACE PEDAGOGY

Readiness: Are business majors equipped with industry-expected skills? This question remains the central theme of discussions between employers and business academicians in terms of bridging the gap between theory and practice. These discussions are useful in identifying reasons that might impede “readiness.” This article provides an overview of pedagogical and practical considerations by offering a process and evaluation framework to help business communication faculty integrate workable pedagogy to ever-evolving business practices. Suggestions are provided for authentically engaging business majors in developing industry-expected skills, such as teamwork, social collaboration, and technology. Although these suggestions will not pertain equally to all business communication settings (i.e. regional or local practices), they do allow for the examination, reflection, and application of best practices to bridge the gaps between theory and practice in terms of providing meaning and value for undergraduate business majors to develop applicable workplace and employability skills. These uncertain times underscore the importance of reflecting on and applying best practices from academic and workplace settings that can authentically engage and develop students

Integrating Soft Skills Through Active Learning In The Management Classroom

This article discusses how active learning can be used to develop soft skills required by managers of contemporary organizations. Findings from course materials developed in response to business and industry demand for increased focus on soft skills are examined using an emerging population, first generation college students in institutions of higher education.    &nbsp

Substance Abuse In The Workplace

Substance abuse is a problem that many businesses encounter.  Seventy-one percent of illegal drug users were employed in 1991 compared to 76.4 percent in 2001(National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery month, 1999; National Household Survey on Drug Abuse, 2001). This paper presents findings from a study conducted to determine (1) if employers and employees agree about the importance of a substance abuse program in the workplace, (2) the extent the employer should be allowed to probe to identify employee substance issues, and (3) factors associated with an employee’s reluctance to seek help from their employer for drug or alcohol abuse

The Moderating Effect Of Culture On Full Versus Partial Mode Of Communication On Managerial Decision-Making

This paper examines the effect of face-to-face versus electronic mode of communication on effective decision-making when moderated by the individualism and collectivism. Hypotheses that collectivists use face-to-face mode of communication and individualists use electronic mail mode of communication to make effective decisions were tested on managers from two countries (Mexico and United States)

The Impact Of Human Interaction On The Development Of Virtual Teams

Virtual teams have revolutionized the ways in which organizations are able to improve business efficiency and productivity in the new era of globalization and information technology. Despite constant advancements in computer technology, virtual teams success continues to depend heavily on the ability of their members to communicate well and trust each other. This paper presents elements of successful virtual teams and accentuates the need for improved human interaction skills