This Research Case Study presents a replicable pedagogical model that uses project management theory to guide high-impact service-learning projects, ensuring tangible community benefits and fostering professional skills in large, diverse classes.
Higher education continually seeks methods to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application and civic responsibility. This study analyzes the “MANA ‘Service-Learning’ Project”, a novel approach that integrates project management theory into Organizational Behavior courses. Through structured phases, students applied OB concepts to address real community needs. Over the course of four years, this model engaged over 330 students, contributing more than 2,200 volunteer hours and mobilizing over $11,000 in resources for community partners. Drawing on a mix of student reflections, course evaluations, and partner feedback, the project demonstrated high student satisfaction, significant gains in learning and skills, and an enhanced civic identity. An AI-assisted thematic analysis was used to efficiently integrate the qualitative data, providing a more robust and comprehensive view of the findings. This replicable framework, ideal for large classes with diverse student populations, enhances academic rigor, ensures tangible community benefits, and fosters impactful engaged scholarship.
Authors: Correy Retzloff
Link: https://doi.org/10.28945/5686
Retzloff, C. (2025). Case study: A project management framework for enhancing engaged scholarship. Muma Business Review 9(25). 285-291. https://doi.org/10.28945/5686