Does experiential learning matter to strategic intuition skills of MBA students? Implications of diagnostic capabilities and critical thinking skills

Abstract

This study aims to explore the influences of Experiential Learning on the development of key skills, including Diagnostic Capabilities, Critical Thinking Skills, and Strategic Intuition Skills, with a particular focus on the mediating roles of Diagnostic Capabilities and Critical Thinking Skills. The research sample comprised of 162 Master of Business Administration (MBA) students in Thailand. Data analysis was conducted using Structural Equation Modeling to examine the relationships between the variables. The findings reveal that Experiential Learning has a significant positive effect on Diagnostic Capabilities, Critical Thinking Skills, and Strategic Intuition Skills, with Diagnostic Capabilities and Critical Thinking Skills acting as mediators in the relationship between Experiential Learning and Strategic Intuition Skills. Moreover, experiential learning activities, including experience accumulation, reflective observation, and active experimentation, play a crucial role in enhancing analytical, decision-making, and strategic planning skills. The results underscore the importance of Experiential Learning as a critical tool for developing essential skills in complex business environments, particularly among MBA students preparing for leadership roles in the future. Recommendations highlight the need to enhance MBA curricula by incorporating experiential learning activities, such as case studies, simulations, and internship projects. Additionally, future research should extend the scope to diverse samples and contexts, as well as integrate new variables, such as innovation skills, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of Experiential Learning's impact.