The authors present a multidimensional assessment of the outcomes and benefits of an income tax preparation assistance (ITPA) service learning program. They measure the perceived proximate benefits at the delivery of the service program, the actual learning outcome benefits prior to graduation, and the perceived long-term benefits from a…

Developing effective presentation skills is a core competence skill for business communicators. Self-report data from a survey of 1,610 2- to 12-year business alumni show that 37.1% present monthly and 27.9% present weekly in their current positions. Alumni who completed a general public speaking course, or both managerial communication and a…

The authors utilized a gap analysis approach to assess general IS knowledge and skill voids or overages in a specific program context. The authors asked alumni to reveal the emphasis that should have been given to 10 IS knowledge and skill areas and compared the results with the emphasis that was actually given. They proceed by relating the…

A study examined the perceived value of the business communication course in relation to business graduates and their postgraduation employment. Findings of a survey of 604 graduates suggest that business communications is of significant value. (JOW)

A study of 493 Executive Masters of Business Administration (MBA) alumni were asked about desired curriculum topics. Replies from 245 suggested coverage of less traditional areas such as information technology, international business, and social/ethical issues as well as continued coverage of traditional management skills, development of business…

Some negative rumblings about Master of Business Administration (MBA) education have lately been circulating among business journals and magazines. To test the validity of such rumblings, the authors surveyed 309 graduates who obtained MBAs between 1996 and 2002 from an Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)…

A series of follow-ups of office systems graduates from 1977-94 (n=263) demonstrated how technology has shaped the office systems curriculum and occupations. Computer literacy and communicative competence are essential skills. Promotion and salary prospects are good. (SK)

Presents an integrated model for the design or redesign of curricula (the Masters of Business Administration curricula in this case). The model integrates input from three major interest groups--the university, business and industry, and students. The model requires both curriculum-related responses and job-related responses. (CT)

Although the 1990s represented an expansive period for business schools in the United States the past few years have seen a significant drop in demand for this once popular degree program. As many schools of business struggle to retain their market share in this increasingly competitive environment, one powerful, but sometimes overlooked, strategy…

In this article, the authors provide insight into alumni perceptions of Master of Business Administration (MBA) program return on investment (ROI). They sought to assess the relative value of skills, knowledge, and teaching methods in explaining ROI. By developing insight into the drivers of ROI, the real utility of MBA program ingredients can be…

A phone survey of 350 randomly selected alumni of a business school addressed the amount and type of communications training received on the job and who provided and paid for the training. Primary providers were found to be nonformal agencies. Employers were least likely to pay for training in written communication skills. (JOW)