Improving business school courses by applying lean principles and practices

Abstract

Describes the application of lean principles and practices to the design and delivery of a graduate business course on leadership taken by part‐time working professional students in a classroom setting. The principal objectives were to improve consistency between what was taught in the course and how the course was taught, eliminate waste, improve the quality and relevance of course materials, and deliver greater value as perceived by students. Results indicate a higher level of student satisfaction, in part through clearer expectations, less ambiguity regarding lectures and assignments, standard formats for assignments, smoothing individual and team assignments over the semester, and better management of students' time both in and outside class. This joins a growing body of work that demonstrates the applicability of lean principles and practices to service businesses, and the achievement of improved outcomes.