The Problem of Constructive Misalignment in International Business Education: A Three-Stage Integrated Approach to Enhancing Teaching and Learning

ABSTRACT

Past evidence suggests that constructive misalignment is particularly problematic in International Business (IB) education, though this paradigm has received limited research attention. Building on the literature of three independent teaching methods (threshold concept, problem-based learning, and technology-based learning), this study contributes to the IB education literature by integrating the three existing methods in a co-complementary and co-supporting manner, and carefully implementing them across three subsequent stages spanning across the length of the IB course. Empirical evidence on student satisfaction and assessment performance shows its usefulness in reducing the negative effects of constructive misalignment among the sampled students. The approach provides practitioners with refreshed insights into how the three independent methods can be integrated to create greater value for learners.

KEYWORDS:

• Constructive alignment
• Threshold concept
• Problem-based learning
• Technology-based learning
• International business education

Notes

¹ Mixed method collection was used in order to capture information from students who were absent in class. Tests were carried out and no statistically significant differences between data from in-class and online survey were found.

² Respondents were asked to select definitely disagree when a questionnaire item about a particular learning activity is not relevant or used, as well as highly ineffective.

³ On two unavoidably occasions, interviews were carried out by the instructor. No significant differences in findings were identified.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Shasha Zhao

Shasha Zhao, PhD, is a Senior Lecturer in International Business at Middlesex University Business School, United Kingdom. She obtained her PhD from Manchester Business School, England. She has published in several international academic journals and conferences—such as International Marketing Review, Human Resource Management Journal, Journal of Teaching in International Business, and Academy of International Business. In addition, she also published a research monograph on the managerial and relational implications of Information Technology in Multinational Enterprises. She is a member of several professional bodies and has acted as guest reviewer for a number of journals and conferences.