Bringing Lean Six Sigma to the Supply Chain Classroom: A Problem-Based Learning Case
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Authors
Keith E Miller
Craig Hill
Antoinette R Miller
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Journal Article, Academic Journal
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Abstract
We describe an interrupted, directed case study that employs problem-based learning to teach the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) methodology as part of an undergraduate or graduate business course. This approach models commercial LSS training programs designed to teach practitioner candidates in a just-in-time manner as the candidates concurrently apply learning to a business problem. It is distinctive for a college-level LSS offering in that the students are free to create their own business and processes, and focus their learning efforts on technical mastery of concepts and tools rather than underlying business descriptions. This project emphasizes critical thinking, team work, and time management, in addition to the fundamental concepts and supporting tools of the process improvement method. The project has been delivered with positive student reception as a self-directed assignment in graduate courses. It can be adapted for upper-level undergraduate courses with advanced preparation of practice data sets.