COLLABORATIVE LEARNING APPROACHES AS INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES REQUIRED FOR EQUIPPING BUSINESS EDUCATION STUDENTS FOR GLOBAL OUTLOOK

Abstract

The study identified the collaborative learning approaches as innovative strategies required forequipping business education students for global outlook in Imo State. Three research questions guided the study and three null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population of the study consisted of 54 business educators in tertiary institutions that offer business education courses in Imo state, namely: Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, Imo State Polytechnic Umuagwo and Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Owerri. There was no sampling. A structured 27-item questionnaire was used for data collection. The instrument was validated by three experts. The reliability of the instrument was ensured using pilot test which was analyzed using Cronbach Alpha formula and it yielded reliability index of 0.85. Data related to the research questions were analyzed using mean while independent samples t-test was used to test the three null hypotheses. Findings of the study revealed that business educators agreed on the collaborative learning approaches required for equipping business education students in Imo State. Also business educators agreed on the classroom management control and challenges that may arise in collaborative learning approaches. The study indicated that there was no significant difference among the two groups in terms of their mean ratings on the collaborative learning approaches required for equipping business education students in Imo State and classroom management control but there was a significant difference among the twogroups in terms of their mean ratings on challenges that may arise in collaborative learning approaches in Imo State based on years of teaching experience. It was concluded that collaborative learning approaches are strategies which will develop students'social skills and improve their relationships with others in the class and the industry. The study recommended among others that an appropriate support should be provided by concerned bodies (deans, departmental heads, administrators, ministry of education) to train students on the concept of collaborative learning approaches and how to convert those concepts into practice. This will empower and equip the students to face the world of work.