Innovative learning design: Experiences from gadget workshops in business informatics classes

Abstract

The paper introduces and discusses the concept of a workshop for students of a Bachelor of Science in Business Information Technology study program, based on theoretical aspects of the experiential learning theory as well as Design Thinking. The goal of the workshop was to enhance the learning outcome of students of this practice-oriented study program. The paper proposes drivers of change for experience-oriented teaching methods as well as reflects on experiential learning theory and design thinking approaches in education for our case, followed by an elaborate description of the conducted workshops and a discussion of the respective outcomes and experiences. The main conclusions of the authors emphasise the insight, that learning from active experience as well as creative tasks for students helps developing cognitive competencies and supports the practical application of the imparted topical information. The experiential class design increased engagement and motivation in the respective class and lead to schematic business concepts developed by the students for further research and development.