What Matters for MBA Teaching Quality A Systematic Literature Review of Knowledge Delivery and Teaching Methods

MBA programs are fundamental to business schools, but recent declines in enrollment and the diminishing value of MBA qualifications, exacerbated by global economic uncertainty, have prompted schools to seek strategies for recovery. To address these challenges, it is crucial to enhance the content, delivery methods, and teaching approaches. Numerous studies highlight the importance of pedagogical content in optimizing MBA programs, as the knowledge conveyed is meant not only to be theoretical but also to guide students in their management practice. Our research demonstrates that combining case-based teaching from experiential learning with simulation-based methods from active learning significantly improves knowledge transfer. Through a systematic literature review, we developed a framework that aligns teaching methods with the content being taught. The findings suggest that accurately characterizing the curriculum content and balancing teaching methods based on different pedagogical approaches can enhance the effectiveness of MBA instruction. These strategies offer potential solutions to counter the current challenges faced by MBA programs and improve their overall impact. By adopting such methods, business schools can better meet the evolving needs of students and the demands of the global business environment.4o