5S Your Life: Using an Experiential Approach to Teaching Lean Philosophy

Abstract

Within the Information Systems domain, employers are often dissatisfied with graduates’ competence of the necessary technical skills in the area of integrated business processes. However, teaching complex concepts related to integrated business processes—such as the 5S lean philosophy—is particularly challenging. In this article, we describe how Kolb's experiential learning cycle was used to design a direct‐experience project to support students’ learning of the 5S lean philosophy. We also share the results of our inquiry into the effectiveness of the project in maximizing students’ learning of and ability to apply the 5S lean philosophy. Based on the results of this study, students’ knowledge of categories of waste and lean tools and knowledge of 5S steps significantly increased.

Soft and hard skills development in lean management trainings

“…This effect can be attributed to the nature of the training’s teaching methods used, for example, on-site exercises with active learning activities that provide greater interaction with study objects, as observed in Goldberg and Rank (2013), Mamat et al (2015); and Ahmad et al (2018). In addition, according to Netland et al (2012), Witt et al (2018); and Abdi et al (2018), organisations that actively implement LM by fostering knowledge management practices are more likely to have their work habits changed as LM practices are integrated into the work routine, contributing to the establishment of a learning environment across the company.…”