Abstract:

Like other sectors, the automotive industry is currently undergoing rapid changes which pose new challenges. This fundamental transformation is affecting both the way vehicles are developed and produced as well as the future of mobility. The most important drivers and trends in this transition process are electromobility, decarbonization, the circular economy, and digitalization.

People in management, administration, and production facilities play a crucial role in handling this change. Without their acceptance and support, the transformation process cannot succeed, and companies will lose ground in their ability to compete. In other studies, the authors have already pointed out the importance of human-centeredness in the innovation process and in the development of competencies for involved key players. The aim of this paper is to discuss a special training format for the qualification of people who effectively drive transformation processes (so-called transformation managers) in organizational structures.

Traditional approaches to in-house training and further academic training reach their limits when it comes to solving the tasks described. The content is often very general in nature. Seminars or in-house courses are time-consuming, and implementation into the operational business tends to be very challenging. In addition, online formats have their restrictions when it comes to complex challenges and tasks and the development of soft skills. The authors have confirmed problem-based learning (PBL) as a particularly suitable teaching format, based on their experiences in courses at the university and in developing a "coaching zone" for Master's students in innovation management.

The article aims to describe the validation of PBL for the qualification of transformation managers in the automotive industry. Based on a description of the initial situation, the paper discusses in detail the suitability of teaching methods for the task described. Furthermore, the advantages of using PBL in a business environment are shown. Possible implementation scenarios are introduced.

Keywords:

Problem-based Learning, Further Education, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, 21st Century Skills, Leadership and Management in Uncertain Times.