Pedagogy innovation for management graduates : application of design thinking

Purpose: This paper aims to develop a pedagogy combining analytic reasoning with a more exploratory skill set that style practitioners have embraced and business schools have traditionally neglected. It proposes a viable business which will be converted into market opportunities. The study aims to expand the domain of design thinking (DT) by applying the concept in the higher education sector with special reference to management education. Design/methodology/approach: This paper emerged out of an application of one of the models of DT in the field of higher education. While several models of DT are deployed by various sectors, the 3I model developed by IDEO in 2001 was chosen as appropriate to design a pedagogy for MBA students. The data were complemented by classroom teaching experiments, evaluation and student performance. Findings: This paper provides empirical insights about how a change is brought about during implementing a new pedagogy in the system. This innovative pedagogy was named as “Integrative and Interactive Approach.” It was offered to first-year postgraduate students of management. Research limitations/implications: Because of the chosen approach, the research results may lack generalizability. Researchers are encouraged to test the model in a smaller group before implementing. Practical implications: The paper focuses on the testing and implementation of DT in innovating a pedagogy with reference to one chosen institute. The cost, benefits and challenges may differ when applied to other institutes of same kind. Originality/value: This paper fulfills an identified need to have an integrated approach of teaching in management education using case study approach.