The Impact of a Classroom as Organization on University-to-Work Transitions and Early Careers

Background: One of the most promising experiential learning approaches in the field of management education is the classroom as organization (CAO), in which students create and run an organization as part of class activities. The CAO contributes to student development in many ways, including by helping students develop teamwork skills, real-world problem-solving capabilities, and emotional intelligence. Purpose: To explore the impact of the CAO on university-to-work transitions and early careers, a challenging time marked by ambiguity, uncertainty, and anxiety. Methodology/Approach: We used a qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with former students from three generations of a CAO. Findings/Conclusions: Findings show that the CAO helps students obtain “realistic” work skills, facilitate career decisions, and develop career adaptability. Implications: The CAO can serve as a powerful career intervention that integrates many of the benefits of simulations and internships.