The conclusion of the Critical Thinking segment of the Business Acumen 100 module
for BCom Accounting Sciences students was celebrated with an engaging and
instructive activity that encapsulated the core learning objectives of the course.
Throughout the semester, students honed their critical thinking skills and decision-
making acumen, which are essential traits for their future careers as chartered
accountants.

In their final lecture, these first-year students participated in an experiential learning
exercise that required them to apply the theoretical knowledge they had gained over the
course. Divided into groups of four, the students were challenged to construct the tallest
possible structure using 20 sticks of raw spaghetti and one meter of masking tape. The
ultimate test of their designs was to support a marshmallow at the peak of the structure
without it collapsing.

This seemingly simple task was a profound exercise in critical thinking and collaborative
problem-solving. The students quickly discovered the importance of several key
intellectual traits. The project required students to question their initial assumptions
about stability and strength in their structures. They learned to reassess and modify
their strategies based on real-world feedback. Regular reflection is part of the journey of
developing as a critical thinker. During this challenge, building prototypes and
continuously reflecting on their design was a central part of the exercise. Students
iteratively tested and refined their structures, understanding the importance of iterative
learning and adjustment.

Many groups faced the collapse of their structures, teaching them the value of humility
in the face of failure and the importance of learning from mistakes. The activity
demanded perseverance, as students had to persist through trial and error to achieve a
successful design. Effective communication within teams was essential. The success of
the structures often depended on clear articulation of ideas and collaborative planning.
The exercise underscored the power of teamwork. Each student brought unique insights
and skills to their group, highlighting the strength of diverse perspectives in problem-
solving.

By the end of the class, students not only had a tangible demonstration of their learning
but also a deeper appreciation for the complexities of decision-making and the
importance of collaborative effort and the cultivation of critical reasoning.
This end-of-semester activity for BUS 100 students was a fitting culmination of their
critical thinking journey, providing them with practical experience and reinforcing the
intellectual skills that will be invaluable throughout their academic and professional
careers. This innovative approach to teaching critical thinking will undoubtedly leave a
lasting impact on these future business leaders.