Lessons from the Sea: A Case Study of an Experiential MBA International Management Course

Abstract

This article describes the design and implementation of a unique course developed to deeply engage MBA students in the complexities of the field of international management. This experiential course was designed around an integrative project based on the cruise industry. The professor worked with the leadership team of a major cruise line to develop an in‐depth case study around which the course was built. Students consulted to the executives of the cruise line, conducted a comprehensive study and analysis of the strategy and human resource challenges of the organization, and prepared presentations of their evaluations and recommendations for the executive team.

Keywords:

• International management
• international strategy and operations
• international human resource management
• culture
• cruise industry
• grounded learning case studies