Authors : Norizan Haji Azizan, Siti Zubaidah Othman, Mohd. Faizal Mohd. Isa and Rushami Zien Yusoff
Abstract: Within the changing world of business, individuals are compelled to demonstrate their ability to think strategically. Nevertheless, many are ill prepared and lack the skills to do so. Studies revealed that adults learn in different modes and means to develop necessary competencies. Despite, the fact that much research revealed adults learned from various learning methods and experiences, most of these studies were quantitative in nature. Very few studies focused on how specific skills are developed from the respondent’s own words. The general aim of this study was to examine the most significant learning experiences which contributed to the proficiency of strategic thinking amongst a group of senior managers. This qualitative, exploratory study addressed the means as to how adults learned to develop their expertise in strategic thinking. Semi-structured interviews were conducted amongst a group of 25 managers in Malaysia. Data collected were transcribed immediately after each interview. Coding, analysing and writing were undertaken concurrently to identify major categories and themes. Every category and occurrence were analysed and compared to find significant connections among them. These led to the sorting of data into three general themes: formal and informal learning, individual factors and work factors. These themes provided crucial insights into the significance of salient factors in influencing the development of strategic thinking ability based on the participant’s perceptions.
Norizan Haji Azizan, Siti Zubaidah Othman, Mohd. Faizal Mohd. Isa and Rushami Zien Yusoff, 2017. How Did You Learn to Become an Expert in Strategic Thinking?. Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 12: 1448-1457.