JOURNAL OF HIGHER EDUCATION THEORY AND PRACTICE

Bridging the Theory-Application Gap in Undergraduate Management Education

Author(s): Kathleen Mays, Don Daake

Citation: Kathleen Mays, Don Daake, (2012) "Bridging the Theory-Application Gap in Undergraduate Management Education," Journal of Higher Education Theory and Practice, Vol.12, Iss. 4, pp. 136 - 150

Article Type: Research paper

Publisher: North American Business Press

Abstract:

This empirical study tested the existence of the theory-application gap in undergraduate management education based on professor beliefs about theory and application emphasis as well as reported behaviors on the use of theory and application techniques. Quantitative results confirm the existence of the gap by showing distinct differences in beliefs regarding appropriate emphasis and actual pedagogical techniques used. Qualitative results offer insights regarding the nature of the theory-application gap, as well as creative ways professors are bridging the gap with specially designed assignments and activities in the classroom.