Integration and Independent Learning In a Business Synoptic Module - Essay Example

The Business Synoptic Module has been very interesting although at times frustrating, specially in the beginning. However, as one learned how to approach the problem, things fell into place. I initially skimmed through the case because that would give me an idea which journals to look for. This itself was a trying process but having heard the name of Michael Porter in the field of strategy, journals from Harvard Business Review were given importance. Attending the two workshops helped attain a better grasp on the module.

I realized that this case study on Wal-Mart required a deep understanding of strategy formulation and cultural differences. The purpose of this module was to learn to apply theory to real life situations. I came across theories on different issues related to strategy but some were quite difficult to conceive. I restricted myself to analysis of strategy and culture. I laid emphasis on Porter’s views because I found them to be quite realistic and applicable to the case study assigned to me.

It was an interesting journey to apply the theories to the case study and actually realize how companies base their decisions. The case study analysis made me realize my own potential and I felt that we find something difficult only till we actually get down to it. It has helped me to overcome the fear and gain confidence in how to analyze situations. Figure I Source; Own diagram This case study has enabled me to develop multiple perspectives on the issues of managing business. One should have a flexible approach and be able to handle any business function.

Managers need to understand the employee relations, the customer needs, the local market conditions and the international market theory to meet all the challenges. This is what has been described as “boundary less” career by Curries, Tempest and Starkey (2006). I am not so keen to climb the organizational hierarchy but am looking for challenging assignment. Deadlines make me nervous. However, I realized that under tension one works better. One has to fix schedules, manage time management and adheres to schedules.

Goals have to be set and prioritized based on necessity (Green & Skinner, 2005). Prioritizing helps to avoid unwanted work. Decision and planning of work helps. I learnt to plan based on the library schedules. Within two days I understood my daily potential and this analysis helped me to plan further. Timing has to be right in the field of business as has been seen how Wal-Mart had to set their entry timing. I also realized that the same theory may not be applicable in different circumstances.

For instance, while joint ventures are theoretically supposed to be the ideal mode of entry in unknown markets, Wal-Mart’s entry in Mexico based on theoretical models may not be the right decision. Strategies may have to change depending upon the size, product, structure and location. I have also gained insight into the cultural factors that influence marketing on products and services. Knowledge in an organization needs to be integrated because fully integrated knowledge gives a clear understanding of how to carry out the work (Comprose, 2006).

All of these competencies acquired have helped me become employable because it has given me a first-hand experience of applying theory to practice. Merely trying to grasp the theory would make it difficult when confronted with real life problems. Figure II Development of skills: Source: Own diagram 3. The experience of the first stage of trying to understand and answer the questions was something that I had not undergone before. It required critical thinking and not just accepting what the theory states or what the case study demands.

Problem-solving techniques and independent thinking have to be developed (De Vita, 2004). It aroused my curiosity and I could sense an eagerness to explore and understand. This denotes intrinsic motivation to delve deeper to understand the hows and whys of business. I started reflecting and revising my answers and responses and my enthusiasm increased as I read more theories espoused by renowned strategists. At times I did get confused and I took a break. This break helped me synthesize mentally all that I had read and understood.

Once I managed to conceive the concepts, everything fell into place. I did need to discuss with my peers just but merely engaged in reflection and synthesis. This is essential so that we do not start on the wrong assumptions. The entire exercise helped me to hone up my skills for the labour market. I realize that it is not about how good I am at something. What matters how many people are better than me. Hence, to market myself I needed to discover and develop my potential, which this module has helped me with.

However, I did encounter barriers to learning which have been tabulated below. Barriers to learning: the common barriers to learning include motivation, access, resources, time and concern over quality (Gosling, 2008). The external and internal barriers encountered have been overcome to complete the module to my satisfaction. Table I External barriers Internal barriers Access – difficulty in reaching the University library. Transport - a perennial problem Language and communication – not being a native speaker has its own drawbacks.

Had to seek clarifications at times. Time – Did not know how to organize time between different assignments, library schedules and work. Resources – no prior knowledge on the subject led to frustration Extra-curricular activities – keen on sports and dramatics including debates, which created distractions from studies and this required determination to spend time on the assignment. Concern for quality – required me to read, study, understand, grasp, write – made me fearful of the quality Home- was attracted towards traveling home several times during the module.

This was a great distraction. Lack of confidence – this was the greatest barrier to learning. Ambience – did not get the right ambience to motivate me to study. Motivation – lacked motivation because I did not know what to expect. Maybe fear of the unknown. Source: Own tabulation References Comprose. (2006). Knowledge Integration. Retrieved March 29, 2010 from: http://www.zavanta.com/DynamicFiles/Knowledge_Integration_White_Paper.pdf Currie, G. and Tempest, S.

and Starkey, K. (2006). New careers for old? Organizational and individual responses to changing boundaries. Int. J. of Human Resource Management. 17 (4), 755-774 De vita, G. (2004). Integration and independent learning in a business synoptic module for international credit entry students. Teaching in higher education. 9 (1). Gosling, M. (2008). BRIEFING NOTE: ADDRESSING BARRIERS TO LEARNING. Retrieved March 29, 2010 from: http://www.skillsdevelopment.org/pdf/Addressing%20Barriers%20to%20Learning%20Briefing%20Notes.

pdf Green, P., & Skinner, D. (2005). Does time management training work? An evaluation, International Journal of Training and Development. 9:2