The international Patchwork: introducing reflexivity into the business curriculum

Abstract

This article describes the introduction of Patchwork on a Masters-level research methods course at Ashcroft International Business School at Anglia Polytechnic University. The writers evaluate the Patchwork in the light of whether it met three objectives of helping students achieve a coherent grasp of the research process, whether they developed the ability to reflect on their learning, and whether it could break down cross-cultural barriers. The voices of the two teachers and the students are presented to tell the story. The writers conclude that the Patchwork provides a very useful model in meeting these three aims, but that in order for Patchwork to achieve its potential, there is a degree of openness and humility needed (on behalf of the teachers) to break out of the traditional authority expectations of the student–teacher relationship – and thereby to encourage a greater sharing of diverse experiences.