C³: Cross-Course Collaboration in a distance learning environment

A typical goal of the capstone course in an MBA programme is integrating prior coursework. Serendipitous scheduling of Strategic Management and an elective in Operations Strategy for a near-captive audience allowed the instructors to develop an innovative and tightly integrated conclusion to the MBA programme taught entirely in a distance-learning environment. The instructors faced two instructional challenges: 1) video conference technology has been less than optimal as compared with traditional delivery; and 2) programme integration and close coordination between the two courses were essential. Course assessment involved using mid- and post-semester surveys, two 'one-minute papers', and a post-semester focus group discussion.