Development of a mnemonic card game for sustainability literacy in Master of Business Administration programmes

Abstract

Orientation: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are critical global targets that management education must integrate to prepare future business leaders for sustainability challenges. Research purpose: This study aims to develop and evaluate a mnemonic card game designed to enhance Master of Business Administration (MBA) students’ understanding and retention of the SDGs. Motivation for the study: Traditional teaching methods often fail to engage students with the complexity of the SDGs, limiting retention and comprehensive understanding. A mnemonic card game offers an innovative, engaging alternative. Research design, approach and method: Following a Design Science Research (DSR) approach, the study involved MBA students playing the SDG card game. Pre-and post-game quizzes, surveys and facilitator observations were used to assess the game’s effectiveness in improving SDG knowledge. Main findings: The game significantly improved students’ understanding, with average quiz scores increasing by 2.41 points post-game. Qualitative feedback indicated high levels of engagement and enjoyment. Practical and/or managerial implications: The card game can be incorporated into business school curricula to enhance sustainability education, providing a scalable, cost-effective and engaging learning tool. It fosters critical thinking and ethical decision-making, aligning with the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME). Contribution and/or value-add: This study provides an innovative tool that enhances sustainability literacy among MBA students, demonstrating the potential for broader application in management education.