The MBA Handbook

Sheila Cameron has years of experience of the particular needs of these students as MBA Director at the Open University Business School.

• Contents  INTRODUCTION    1    Management, learning and the role of this book   Learning outcomes and Introduction   How to use this handbook How the book is structured   Chapter structure    Planning your work on the handbook   Summary UNDERSTANDING THE MBA 2    The nature of MBA learningLearning outcomes and Introduction   MBA origins  Challenges to the traditional model    A history of the MBA Lessons for MBA design Reflection and professional practiceKey MBA benefits   SummaryFurther information   3    Your objectives for an MBA   Learning outcomes and Introduction    Your life as contextLearning aims for future career successDeveloping objectivesDirecting your effortsSummary  Helpfile 3.1: Questions that may help you choose a programme 4 Creating a suitable learning contextLearning outcomes and Introduction    Gaining organisational supportGaining support from family and friendsYour MBA providerEnsuring emotional supportCreating a place to studyInternet accessSummary  PRE-COURSE SKILL DEVELOPMENT   5    Personal management skills   Learning outcomes and Introduction   Assessing your personal management skills Planning skills Emotional intelligenceManaging stressCoping with unavoidable stressDeveloping assertiveness skillsKnowledge managementSeeking information: preparatory reading   Summary Further information   Helpfile 5.1: Edit and format commands6    Time management   Learning outcomes and Introduction    Making time for studyIf the time is simply not there …Basic time management principlesPutting principles into practiceSummary Further information   DEVELOPING LEARNING SKILLS   7    Managing your learning activities   Learning outcomes and Introduction    Creating time and spaceDeveloping a study planUsing study time effectivelySummary    Appendix to chapter 7: Exercises that can be used during study breaks8    Learning and developing as a managerLearning outcomes and Introduction   What is learning?What is management theory and why is it useful?Learning model and metaphorsLearning stylesSingle and double loop learningCritical engagementReflection and professional learningReflective writingOrganising your fileSummary    Further information 9    Improving reading skills    Learning outcomes and Introduction   Efficient eye movement    Increasing reading speed Selecting reading material    Choosing your reading speed   Reading criticallyTaking notes Summary    Further information Answers to exercises 10 Using diagrams    Learning outcomes and Introduction   The importance of diagrams    The magic management bo