Empowering Student Success in Business Analytics Capstones: Best Practices

Abstract

This study uses a qualitative approach within a mixed-methods explanatory design focused on exploring the experiences of senior students in a business analytics capstone course at a public university. 10 students participated in the survey whose responses identified several best practices such as project selection and preparation, autonomy on project milestones, continuous progress reporting, expert-led guest lectures, and presentation skills improvement. Additionally, some practical applications are shared such as weekly progress meetings, expert-led seminars, presentation practice, and symposium participation. Given the limited contemporary scholarly literature on developing high-impact capstone courses in business analytics, this study aims to fill that gap by documenting the experiences of senior students and the successful practices associated with those experiences. Key takeaways include fostering autonomy in project milestones and data selection, timely feedback, improving presentation skills to create an enhanced learning experience, and empowering students to take future jobs.