Fostering BPM Learning Through PBL: Development and Application of an Educational Framework

The objective of this study is to develop and apply a Business Process Management (BPM) Educational Framework using Project-Based Learning (PBL) with graduate students in administration at a Brazilian institution. The PBL-BPM framework integrates dynamic capabilities and holistic diagnosis for a comprehensive BPM education. The method used was qualitative exploratory research, divided into three phases: (1) development of the PBL-BPM Educational Framework, (2) application of the framework by graduate students in a real project in a cosmetics company, and (3) evaluation of the students’ perception of the didactic strategy used and the knowledge acquired. The practical application of the PBL-BPM Educational Framework was carried out in a cosmetics company, providing a unique opportunity to observe the application of theoretical concepts in a real business environment. The results indicated a significant improvement in the students’ ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real contexts, develop practical skills, and acquire a holistic understanding of business process management. This study demonstrates that the PBL-BPM Educational Framework is crucial for the development of in-depth BPM skills, generating significant process improvement proposals for the studied company. Besides bridging the gap between theory and practice, this work provides the BPM education community with a flexible and adaptable framework, applicable across various sectors. This study not only better prepares students for the job market but also contributes to the evolution of educational practices in the BPM field.