Establishing an effective collaborative learning environment using team-based inquiry learning strategies.

The aim of this project was to improve the effectiveness of collaborative learning and assessment in the Applied Management paper at Bay of Plenty Polytechnic (Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology), a research-based paper in the Level 6 New Zealand Diploma in Business, with a view to increasing student engagement, active learning and critical thinking in tandem with transferable team management and research skills.

An action research process facilitated the development, implementation and evaluation of team-based inquiry learning strategies as a pilot project for the redevelopment of other courses of learning both internally and amongst the wider management education community.

Results highlighted a number of potential barriers to collaborative learning and a range of strategies was developed to improve the effectiveness of team-based project facilitation, including strategic team formation, monitoring and peer feedback processes. In addition, a blended learning approach was found to improve the quality of individual learning and support the development of reflective practice.