Assessing the deliverables of beyond-the-classroom engagement of management students: an outcome-oriented model approach

Abstract

Purpose

Student engagement is a multifaceted concept that encompasses various dimensions that significantly influence students and their learning journey. This study aims to explore the extent of engagement among management students outside the confines of the classroom, specifically focusing on their engagement with the campus and community and assessing the outcomes resulting from this engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature review provided the basis for developing a student engagement framework, focusing on campus and community engagement and their outcomes. Established scales measured these variables through surveys administered to 386 UG and PG management students. In-depth analysis using PLS-SEM technique revealed the interplay of variables, beyond demographic and descriptive examinations.

Findings

The study found that campus and community engagement fosters a sense of responsibility. Campus engagement also cultivates long-term loyalty to the institution, while community engagement enhances social consciousness. Additionally, no significant differences in engagement levels were observed based on gender or educational level among management students.

Research limitations/implications

The study faces limitations that need addressing for balanced understanding and future research guidance. Firstly, varying definitions across studies lead to inconsistent outcomes and comparability challenges. Secondly, accurate measurement is difficult due to reliance on self-reporting tools, which are prone to biases. Cultural and contextual differences also limit generalizability, and quantitative data alone may not capture the full picture. In India, identifying specific skills and competencies as engagement outcomes in outcome-based education is challenging, requiring precise variable identification.

Practical implications

The study would contribute to improving the efficacy of efforts beyond the classroom engagement activities as it tests, validates, and projects them as outcome-driven by showcasing learning both as generic competencies in a broad sense and higher-order competencies in particular.

Originality/value

The literature indicates higher education institutes' activities beyond classroom teaching enhance students' campus and community relationships. This study measures these engagements' outcomes and suggests new research dimensions in student engagement.

Citation

Dhaliwal, A., Malik, S. and Hazarika, D.D. (2024), "Assessing the deliverables of beyond-the-classroom engagement of management students: an outcome-oriented model approach", Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/HESWBL-06-2023-0131