The MBA Handbook

Sheila Cameron has years of experience of the particular needs of these students as MBA Director at the Open University Business School.

 

Contents

 

INTRODUCTION   

1    Management, learning and the role of this book  

Learning outcomes and Introduction   

How to use this handbook

How the book is structured   

Chapter structure   

Planning your work on the handbook  

Summary

UNDERSTANDING THE MBA

2    The nature of MBA learning

Learning outcomes and Introduction   

MBA origins  

Challenges to the traditional model   

A history of the MBA

Lessons for MBA design

Reflection and professional practice

Key MBA benefits  

Summary

Further information  

3    Your objectives for an MBA  

Learning outcomes and Introduction   

Your life as context

Learning aims for future career success

Developing objectives

Directing your efforts

Summary  

Helpfile 3.1: Questions that may help you choose a programme

4 Creating a suitable learning context

Learning outcomes and Introduction   

Gaining organisational support

Gaining support from family and friends

Your MBA provider

Ensuring emotional support

Creating a place to study

Internet access

Summary  

PRE-COURSE SKILL DEVELOPMENT  

5    Personal management skills  

Learning outcomes and Introduction   

Assessing your personal management skills

Planning skills

Emotional intelligence

Managing stress

Coping with unavoidable stress

Developing assertiveness skills

Knowledge management

Seeking information: preparatory reading  

Summary

Further information  

Helpfile 5.1: Edit and format commands

6    Time management  

Learning outcomes and Introduction   

Making time for study

If the time is simply not there …

Basic time management principles

Putting principles into practice

Summary

Further information  

DEVELOPING LEARNING SKILLS  

7    Managing your learning activities  

Learning outcomes and Introduction   

Creating time and space

Developing a study plan

Using study time effectively

Summary   

Appendix to chapter 7: Exercises that can be used during study breaks

8    Learning and developing as a manager

Learning outcomes and Introduction  

What is learning?

What is management theory and why is it useful?

Learning model and metaphors

Learning styles

Single and double loop learning

Critical engagement

Reflection and professional learning

Reflective writing

Organising your file

Summary   

Further information

9    Improving reading skills   

Learning outcomes and Introduction  

Efficient eye movement   

Increasing reading speed

Selecting reading material   

Choosing your reading speed  

Reading critically

Taking notes

Summary   

Further information

Answers to exercises

10 Using diagrams   

Learning outcomes and Introduction  

The importance of diagrams   

The magic management bo