Management education in the age of information overload

Kenneth Michael Sweet, Kathryn Appenzeller Knowles and Ethan P. Waples

Organization Management Journal, 2025, vol. 22, issue 1, 72-83

Abstract: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to advocate for the integration of quantitative reasoning into management education and leadership development literature. The authors argue that the increasing complexity of managerial decision contexts, particularly in the age of information overload, demands that leaders possess the ability to critically analyze and interpret quantitative information. Design/methodology/approach - This viewpoint paper uses narrative argument to explore the concept of quantitative reasoning and its relevance to management education. The authors draw on research from mathematics education, psychology and management to support their argument. They also use real-world examples, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, to illustrate the importance of quantitative reasoning in contemporary leadership. Findings - This paper argues that quantitative reasoning is a critical skill for organizational leaders. It highlights the limitations of traditional management education in preparing leaders to effectively navigate data-rich environments. The authors contend that incorporating quantitative reasoning into leadership development programs can improve decision-making effectiveness. Originality/value - This paper offers a novel perspective on leadership development by emphasizing the significance of quantitative reasoning, a concept borrowed from the field of mathematics education, to close a gap in current management education practices.

Keywords: Management education; Leadership development; Decision-making; VUCA; Quantitative reasoning (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:omjpps:omj-02-2025-2441

DOI: 10.1108/OMJ-02-2025-2441

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