A recent study published in The International Journal of Management Education highlights the positive impact of value creation pedagogy (VCP) on university students. Conducted by Martin Lackéus from Chalmers University of Technology along with Danish researchers, the study emphasizes how VCP enhances students’ motivation, self-confidence, and academic performance by encouraging them to create value for others beyond their academic group.
Value creation pedagogy involves students learning through real collaborations that address societal issues, produce instructional materials, and contribute to research projects. This collaborative teaching approach connects students with educators and external actors, making their knowledge applicable and meaningful in real-world contexts. Lackéus has previously demonstrated the benefits of VCP for both school pupils and higher education students.
The findings indicate that students create various forms of value—economic, social, cultural, ecological, and knowledge-based—opening the door for a broader understanding of how they can make meaningful contributions to society. However, the emotional complexities tied to this learning process require supportive environments, as both students and educators may experience uncertainty and setbacks alongside rewarding moments.
For VCP to thrive, Lackéus stresses the importance of time, resources, and institutional support. He notes that it’s vital for educators to cultivate networks and partnerships in their communities while also experimenting with new assessment methods that better capture students’ learning outcomes from value creation activities.
The study encourages educators interested in implementing VCP to start small, work incrementally, collaborate within teaching teams, and foster student ownership of projects. Although the research focused on twelve Scandinavian cases, the patterns suggest that value creation pedagogy can make higher education more relevant to societal needs, provided that educators are supported in this challenging endeavor.
This research not only underscores the significance of innovative teaching methods but also inspires educators to take courageous steps toward enriching students’ educational experiences and fostering a sense of responsibility toward society.