International Action Learning MBA. join the global community of business leaders.

Transcription

1 International Action Learning MBA join the global community of business leaders

2 Welcome to Business School Netherlands Business School Netherlands has been active in the development of business professionals for more than twenty years, and we continue to expand our provision of Action Learning programmes beyond the boundaries of the Netherlands, creating a global Action Learning community of business leaders. Based upon our belief that the courses available at the time failed to meet the actual training and development needs of business managers, we established the business school in We moved away from the traditional approach adopted by most business schools which focused on teaching students an overwhelming amount of theory and then asking them to apply the theory to one or more specific case studies. At BSN, we focus on learning and the practical application of knowledge, rather than just the accumulation of knowledge, which may or may not have relevance to your own personal or organisational business situation. Instead, we start by identifying a real problem; your problem - a relevant challenge or specific issue that your organisation needs to solve. Once the problem, challenge or issue is identified, you will gain deep insight and learning using the principles of Action Learning. You will learn how to critically analyse the available knowledge in your respective field of business; research the problem, evaluate alternatives based on your research data, and propose an appropriate business solution that will assist your organisation in solving the problem. All this, while at the same time developing your own personal competencies and growth as a manager. This is why at BSN we believe that the most important part of doing an MBA is learning to learn. If you develop the skills to analyse a problem, can identify the core issues, and know where to look for possible solutions and ideas, you are better equipped to cope with tomorrow s challenges than anyone who can recite yesterday s theories. We realise that this is not the mainstream way of thinking and frankly, we are proud of that, but this does not mean that what we offer is not a serious MBA it is just unconventional and proactive. But then, so are most of the managers and business leaders who study with us.

3 Why Business School Netherlands Action Learning BSN uses the methodology of Action Learning as it centres on the continued development of established talents, growing levels of confidence and optimising competencies. The simplicity of Action Learning is that as a working methodology, it can be implemented into most learning and development environments; making it one of the most flexible training tools available. Essentially, Action Learning requires asking pertinent questions to probe deeper into the business issue as the problem may appear to reside at surface level, but more often than not, the root problem lies buried deep below the surface. Questioning and just as importantly listening, will unveil the true issues. The simple steps to the success of Action Learning are diagnosing the problem, planning a means to resolve the issue, implement the required change, and finally reflect upon the results. Most MBA programmes end at the project write up phase, but the real learning is experienced during the implementation and reflection phase. An International Business School BSN has for many years, maintained an international vision and scope outside of our Netherlands head office campus. We are active throughout other European countries, the African Continent and Asia. Our programmes are offered in various languages, contributing to the professional growth of managers and business leaders internationally. Through the development of our flagship English Language International Action Learning MBA, we have the potential to create Action Learners within a global village context. Professional Study Environment As a business manager, one expects a professional environment in which to study and we are proud to say that our approach is professional, yet personal. All class environments are established with like-minded professionals, so when you share your experiences and examine your issues in a group setting, you can be confident of qualified, competent discussions with your sparring partners. Class interactions are always of the highest level and because you are reviewing workplace issues, always directly relevant to your own working environment. As a manager you learn through experience, by taking action and addressing problems, you run the risks and realise the results! That is Action Learning. Lifelong Learning You will soon realise that the Action Learning methodology benefits you in all aspects of your personal life and professional career. The simple cyclical process and the research methodologies learned, will equip you like no other education or training programme. This working method provides a new vision on leadership techniques that will benefit your career through the management ranks and beyond. Renowned Faculty By now you will have realised that our approach is a little different compared to other business schools, and we do not apologise for that. The fact is our differences just make us stand out from the norm so it will be no surprise to discover that we also differ with regard to our faculty. Renowned professionals with extensive business experience are the requirements for our part-time faculty members. Topical, relevant information is what is required for busy professionals, so our faculty are carefully selected to ensure that our students benefit from their professional experiences. Market Leader With an annual MBA student intake of approximately 200, we are one of the largest business schools in the Netherlands. Additionally with an undisputed number 1 on programme content consistently in the last three biannual rankings from the Dutch ranking body and publication, Intermediar, no wonder we are proud of our market leader status and regarded as experts in the field of MBA programmes. TRAINING METHOD This is a hands-on course, the learning methodology used is Action Learning, which continuously develops your talents and develops your ability to ask pertinent questions probing deeper into business issues. Action Learning requires that you to diagnose the problem, plan the means to resolve the issue, implement the required change and reflect upon the results. Real learning is developed during the researching, analysis, implementation and reflection phases, which are often left out in other courses. WHAT DO YOU NEED? Students must have access to a computer, and the Internet.

4 Action Learning Project Based As a BSN MBA student, you will focus only on topics of relevance to you and your organisation. Through research and discussion with your fellow peers and BSN faculty, you will discover methods to resolve issues and implement new plans; applying change through action. You will complete six in-house assignments, which we refer to as Action Learning Projects (ALPs). Upon completion of all your ALPs, you will be required to undertake a dissertation, which must address a strategic problem within your organisation. Replicates the Global Business Environment Those that address problems alone stand alone, but those that form a strong team and tackle a problem in a cohesive, synergistic manner, ask challenging questions and devise the strongest of formulas for change, will realise their goals in an empowering fashion. For this reason, your classmates, from various business backgrounds, are your winning team. Together you will question and challenge, and ultimately assist one another to formulate an appropriate plan of action for the toughest of workplace issues. Initially you will be part of an intake of no more than 25 students, which we refer to as a Set. During the Start-up conference, you will be assigned to a geographically strategic Subset of approximately 4 5 students. The Subsets will simplify the opportunity for regular interaction, which is a fundamental aspect of Action Learning. Professional Assessment Assessment is based on areas of business that are relevant to professionals in a leadership position; we will appraise your diagnosis of the problem, your plan of action, your field research, your evaluation of the situation, and how you implement the plan to resolve the issue. Finally, we will assess your personal reflection of the situation; what you learned through the process and what if anything you will change next time. This way we can gain an appreciation of how you fulfil your role as a business manager and leader, and importantly how you develop your managerial and leadership skills throughout the programme. Furthermore, you will be required to write examinations, which are designed to test your theoretical knowledge and which are based on the textbooks and articles used during each core course. Valued Student Support From the outset, our specialised learning coaches encourage student interaction and lively discussion within the virtual class environment. Renowned module instructors and our in-house staff play a vital role during your visit with us at the international residency conferences. Here you have the opportunity to ask the most challenging of questions, dispute theories and exchange inspirational experiences. Once back in your own surroundings, the accessible virtual class is the place for continued inquisitive, taxing, and lively interaction with the whole group, your Subset or your learning coach. Online Library Access With the additional support of our immense database of online journals, periodicals and management reviews; whatever your subject of interest, there is no problem in finding topical, significant and relevant information at the click of your mouse. Demonstrate that you have fully researched your topics of interest, with the aid of this incredible reference tool, which is accessible online to all our students. Accreditation The International Action Learning MBA is accredited through the Dutch Governmental body the NVAO, (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders), which guarantees excellence. This endorsement is recognised by global accreditation bodies and ensures further study opportunities within the EU and internationally.

5 International MBA Programme Structure: Phase 1: Here we lay the theoretical foundation upon which your future study will focus. This phase creates a common conceptual framework for the whole Set whilst you follow the MBA programme. You will conduct an Organisational Analysis of your company and design your own Personal Development Plan. This is based upon your current leadership skills and competencies, and you will be encouraged throughout the programme to consider areas for development. Phase 2: Kicks off with a 4 week online preparation for the 6 -day inspirational local conference at Business School Netherlands Campus in Buren, The Netherlands. This is the perfect setting to inspire and be inspired; to share experiences and soak in the wealth of knowledge that is available during these vital days. You will meet your fellow classmates and have the opportunity to network with students. Following the international conference, students work in small teams, called Subsets, which focus on their Action Learning Projects (ALPs) identified during the international conference, aiding, challenging and motivating each other. The subsets will get together fortnightly, to receive feedback from the coach and discuss the progress on the projects. Written reports on the 6 ALPs serve as your assessment for Phase 2. Each Action Learning project report must demonstrate your understanding of the problem, challenge, or issue, and that you have adequately researched the problem, analysed your research data effectively, and have generated a workable solution and presented an appropriate and workable implementation plan. Students have access 24:7 to the virtual class environment, where continued networking, discussion, and exchanging of experiences is encouraged, supported and coached by one of our renowned specialised facilitators. Where student numbers permit (minimum 4 students), geographical sets will be established for additional face-to-face interaction. Phase 3: concludes your MBA studies by the completion of the Master s Project, which includes a dissertation and a reflection report of your learning during the period of your studies. You will be allocated an internal supervisor who will provide continued support during this final phase of your studies. The IALMBA Timeline Phase I Phase II Phase III Block I Block II Block III Block IV Block V Block VI Block VII Organisational 6-day Operations Financial Human Information Dissertation Masters Project Analysis & International Management Management Resources Management Dipstick EAML Personal Conference Alps & Articles Alps & Articles Management Alps & Articles Project Monograph Development plan Alps & Articles Abstract - Strategic Management Alps & Articles - Marketing Management Alps & Articles 2 weekly subset meetings 3 months 3 months 3 months 3 months 3 months 3 months 3 months 4 months 25 months* * A maximum of 48 months is available for the completion of the IALMBA

6 Action Learning in Action Having graduated close to 2000 Action Learning MBA managers from various continents, BSN has demonstrated that the flexibility of Action Learning is an attractive method of training and development within organisations. Through the Action Learning process, individuals are open to and respond better to change and change management. Therefore, an organisation that implements Action Learning processes, not only benefits from having Action Learners within its management team, but the added value is the return on investment in the form of improved management and leadership competencies which flow back into the organisation. Few MBA programmes can offer such beneficial returns to an organisation. The following are organisations that already benefit from having one or more employee study an MBA programme with Business School Netherlands:

7 How the IALMBA will benefit you personally and your organisation: Problems, challenges and issues addressed are 100% relevant to your company, and learning outcomes offer significant strategic solutions Return on Investment is directly measurable through implementation of Action Learning projects, thereby providing tangible benefits Just one 6-day conferences; therefore more time dedicated to the working environment The Action Learning methodology will enhance individual managers and organisational skills and competencies Student networking ensures maximum learning opportunities Professional development and career aspirations are met, thereby ensuring retention of key personnel. Who should apply for the IALMBA Our MBA students must hold a Bachelor / first degree, and hold a managerial position within their organisation. Management trainees may be considered candidates for this programme. We will consider applications from candidates who do not possess a degree, where sufficient professional experience is demonstrated. Professional management qualifications are highly regarded in the application procedure. For non-english speaking candidates, a TOEFL or IELTS language test is required. The minimum pass mark for TOEFL is 79 and IELTS 6.0. Exemptions may be considered if you have successfully completed your BA degree in the English language. In Conclusion: Benefits of the IALMBA Action Learning Methodology Networking Opportunities Programme Relevance, Excellence, Flexibility International Faculty Replicates Global Business Environment Online Student Support & Coaching Accredited Dutch Programme Measurable ROI through project implementation

8 Need to Know More? If you would like discuss enrolment procedures for the IALMBA, or learn more about business opportunities with Business School Netherlands and our International Division please do not hesitate to contact: Kigali Institute of Management Business School Netherlands Ms. Grace Tesire De Raadskamer P.O BOX 2895, Kigali - Rwanda Herenstraat 25 Tel.: BK Buren (Gld.) Tel.: The Netherlands Fax: international@bsn.eu info@kimrwand.com or visit: when will you join us? the action learning business school