CAPS-Client Adaptive Problem Solving: Experiential Team Learning

Abstract

This paper introduces CAPS (Client Adaptive Problem Solving) as an experiential learning method for marketing students. Experiential learning is discussed in terms of five dimensions: (1) learning experience, project or other type of experience such as a class exercise; (2) team or individual work; (3) structured or unstructured assignment; (4) client or other recipient of student effort, such as the instructor; and (5) type of client, small business or other, such as a large business. Educational objectives/advantages and disadvantages of each dimension are presented. CAPS contributes to learning process by building on specific combinations of experiential learning elements. Major advantages of CAPS include student motivation, tractability for both student and instructor, and learning essential problem solving skills.