Original Research - Special Collection: 17th IBC Conference

Development of a mnemonic card game for sustainability literacy in Master of Business Administration programmes

Magdalena J. Grobler
Acta Commercii | Vol 25, No 2 | a1338 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/ac.v25i2.1338 | © 2025 Magdalena J. Grobler | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 07 October 2024 | Published: 07 January 2025

About the author(s)

Magdalena J. Grobler, NWU Business School, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa

Abstract

Orientation: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are critical global targets that management education must integrate to prepare future business leaders for sustainability challenges.

Research purpose: This study aims to develop and evaluate a mnemonic card game designed to enhance Master of Business Administration (MBA) students’ understanding and retention of the SDGs.

Motivation for the study: Traditional teaching methods often fail to engage students with the complexity of the SDGs, limiting retention and comprehensive understanding. A mnemonic card game offers an innovative, engaging alternative.

Research design, approach and method: Following a Design Science Research (DSR) approach, the study involved MBA students playing the SDG card game. Pre- and post-game quizzes, surveys and facilitator observations were used to assess the game’s effectiveness in improving SDG knowledge.

Main findings: The game significantly improved students’ understanding, with average quiz scores increasing by 2.41 points post-game. Qualitative feedback indicated high levels of engagement and enjoyment.

Practical and/or managerial implications: The card game can be incorporated into business school curricula to enhance sustainability education, providing a scalable, cost-effective and engaging learning tool. It fosters critical thinking and ethical decision-making, aligning with the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME).

Contribution and/or value-add: This study provides an innovative tool that enhances sustainability literacy among MBA students, demonstrating the potential for broader application in management education.


Keywords

Sustainable Development Goals; game-based learning; mnemonics; management education; responsible management; sustainability literacy

JEL Codes

A22: Undergraduate; I23: Higher Education • Research Institutions

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 4: Quality education

Metrics

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Total article views: 253


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