Abstract:

This paper elucidates using preexisting Experiential Learning Activity (ELA) to enhance student results. In this particular experience, we utilize the exercise "Carflow" to educate students about several topics pertaining to Operations Management, extending beyond the fundamental principles of lean manufacturing. The objective of "Carflow" is to give students the opportunity to experience the effects of different production designs and philosophies so they can familiarize themselves with lean concepts such as pull and push, Kanban, lead time, or tack time, among others. The original activity has several cycles, and each cycle has its own purpose. Besides the more conceptual aspects behind the activity, the activity aims to promote class engagement and discourage reliance on conventional instructional approaches. Simulating a car production line can show how a mass production system can be transformed into an efficient process in terms of cost, service and delivery. The “Carflow" activity might be apt for elucidating the various aspects and compromises involved in a company turning lean.

Nevertheless, lean significantly emphasizes standardization, quality, and product flow by eliminating inefficiencies and waste. Improving an existing production system in a simulation can effectively convey several intriguing notions while elucidating other crucial lean principles. This study aims to extend the existing experience developed by a consultancy company to address other concepts that provide further insights into lean management. We elucidate the experience changes in accordance with the technique used throughout the development of ELAs. Initial findings suggest that the changed experience was able to fulfill the course objectives while keeping a rich and compelling debate to work on the original and the new activity objectives. Lastly, we will address the consequences and constraints of these findings.

Keywords:

Experiential Learning Activity, lean manufacturing, Kanban, tack time, lead time, line balancing.