Student Trade Missions: An Experiential Learning Opportunity

Abstract

In response to the criticisms addressed to business schools, teaching formulas that foster experiential learning are increasingly being put forward. The Missions Commerciales de l’Université Laval (MCULUniversité Laval Trade Missions) is a training program designed to foster experiential learning. This program extends over an entire academic year in which students are required to find and fulfill an international development mandate on behalf of a business. The objective of this study is to investigate the extent to which participation in such a business consulting project enables students to acquire new skills and modify certain attitudes. Our results show that student participation in an international trade mission has a considerable impact on the acquisition of professional skills and competencies, as well as the development of personality traits and attitudes. Through this experience, students build confidence, develop a sense of initiative and learn to identify business opportunities and adapt quickly. It allows them to sharpen their sales skills and techniques while learning to represent a business. Having completed a trade mission also appears to improve student employability.