Development and implementation of a new product development course combining experiential learning, simulation, and a flipped classroom in remote learning

Abstract

New product development (NPD) learning is considered essential for business students. Recent research emphasizes the need to design NPD courses that meet practical demands. Our study aims at creating a bridge between NPD learning and practice. We developed a new learning approach for teaching NPD courses, which combines remote learning, traditional and flipped classrooms, collaboration with startups, teamwork, and simulation-based training. This new approach was implemented in two classes of international business school students from universities that are members of the Global Network for Advanced Management (GNAM). The study found that the new learning approach helped business students understand NPD methodologies, tools, and techniques discussed during the course. This research also found that the collaboration helped some startups in their initial development phase. The results of this study shed light on how experiential learning and university-industry collaboration contributes to NPD courses and startups.