Perceptions of postgraduate students and professors about the importance and development of management skills

Abstract

Introduction: Understanding the perceptions of professors and students regarding the importance and development of competencies is essential for adjusting graduate programs. This study focused on identifying areas of consensus and discrepancy in the perceptions of students and professors in a Master's in Management program regarding the relevance of key managerial competencies. Method: Questionnaires were used to collect data from students and professors about the importance and perceived level of development of the competencies. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the relevance perceptions between both groups, while the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test assessed the differences between the importance attributed and the development perceived by students. Results: The findings showed a high consensus on the importance of competencies such as Strategic Management, Problem-Solving and Decision-Making, Leadership and Motivation, Teamwork, and Negotiation. However, significant differences were found in the perception of the Problem-Solving and Decision-Making competency, with professors valuing it more than students. Students perceived a moderate level of development in most competencies, highlighting a notable disparity between the importance attributed and the development achieved. Discussion: The results are consistent with previous studies, underscoring the universal relevance of these managerial competencies and validating the participants' perceptions. The discrepancy between the importance and perceived development suggests a need to adjust the curriculum of the Master's in Management program to enhance the development of key competencies.