Using vision statements to enhance course design and improve student outcomes

Vision statements in organizations help CEOs provide focus and direction to a company’s activities and motivate employees toward improved performance. This article explores if an instructor can use a vision statement to overcome course design challenges and motivate students toward improved learning and then presents a process used for developing and implementing vision statements into business courses. Using a pre-and-post design to evaluate student’s learning and performance improvements, preliminary results support the use of course visions in designing courses and show improvements in student learning. The challenges encountered in implementing course vision statements are also discussed.