The value of undergraduate capstone experiences: stepping stones to future organizational engagement
Development and Learning in Organizations
ISSN: 1477-7282
Article publication date: 16 December 2019
Issue publication date: 15 April 2020
Abstract
Purpose
This conceptual article describes the capstone experience. It argues that this final-year undergraduate study, particularly when centered on in-depth research and writing a dissertation, provides significant value for institutions, students, and future employers. It is argued that the criteria for capstone experience success neatly align with the skills and competencies most source by organizational employers.
Design/methodology/approach
This is a short reflection on the present author’s engagement with capstones and business undergraduates. It is limited in scope, reviews the author’s extensive experience and practice, but may have limited generalizability. Nevertheless, it will likely be of value to business educators and to organizational members seeking to hire high-potential business graduates.
Findings
Properly designed and executed, capstones can develop the skills and competencies currently considered the most desirable in organizations. Those who have successfully completed their capstones (in this case, in-depth research and an undergraduate dissertation) have a demonstrated advantage in the hiring process. Students are encouraged to see the capstone as a bridging activity between college and the workplace. This fosters student engagement with targeted organizations and the creation of contacts and networks that provide mutual advantage on graduation.
Originality/value
The article provides novel insights that are personal but informed and considered. It offers original perspectives on the value of the capstone experience for students, educational institutions, and hiring organizations.
Keywords
Citation
Starr-Glass, D. (2020), "The value of undergraduate capstone experiences: stepping stones to future organizational engagement", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 34 No. 2, pp. 29-32. https://doi.org/10.1108/DLO-08-2019-0187
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited