Description

Fundamentals of Management

Course Description

Fundamentals of Management is a 15-week self-paced online course designed for motivated high school students who want to explore the principles of leadership, business, teamwork, communication, entrepreneurship, and organizational success. Using the OpenStax textbook Principles of Management, students will examine how effective managers lead people, make decisions, solve problems, motivate teams, and navigate real-world business challenges.

Rather than relying on tests or quizzes, this course emphasizes meaningful learning through reflection, application, and creative problem-solving. Students will engage directly with management concepts through weekly readings, personalized reflections, and hands-on projects that connect textbook ideas to practical situations and modern organizations.

Each week follows a consistent and flexible structure:

• Reading Assignment — Assigned textbook chapter(s)
• Reflection Assignment — Students choose five review questions from the assigned chapter(s) and respond thoughtfully through a written journal, video journal, or slideshow presentation.
• Project Assignment — Students complete one Management Skills Application Exercise and one Managerial Decision Exercise from the assigned chapter(s), applying course concepts in creative and practical ways.

In Week 15, students will complete a final project by selecting and responding to three Critical Thinking Cases from the textbook. Because every chapter includes a case study, students will have many opportunities to choose topics that match their interests and strengths. This final experience is designed to reinforce key course concepts while encouraging thoughtful analysis and real-world application.

This course is ideal for independent learners who enjoy discussion, creativity, leadership development, and practical learning experiences. By the end of the semester, students will have developed a strong foundation in management principles and a deeper understanding of how organizations and leaders shape the world around them.