Adapting to Post-Pandemic Changes: Meeting Students' Educational Needs and Preparing Organizations
Master thesis

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Date
2024Metadata
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- Master of Science [1822]
Abstract
Two years have passed since the world gradually began to reopen after the pandemic. During the pandemic, digital learning platforms became the norm, and a hybrid working model became prominent for several organizations. In the post-pandemic era, many students faced economic difficulties due to rising inflation. This financial pressure led them to deprioritize their academic focus in favor of increased part-time work to meet financial demands. The transition from purely digital learning to hybrid learning provided many with greater autonomy and flexibility, reducing the stress associated with part-time work alongside studies.
This qualitative study explores the reflections of five master students on how their needs have evolved throughout the pandemic, and their expectations for future employment and leadership. The empirical findings reveal a desire for organizations to support the need for autonomy and flexibility. While there is a preference for hybrid work models, the respondents also experienced the importance and desirability of social interactions, which had been limited during the pandemic. Therefore, it could be important for organizations to support the need for social support, where employees are encouraged to be present at the workplace. The expectations for the workplace include a socially engaging environment and supportive, structured leadership. This thesis provides a glimpse into students’ perspectives and suggests what organizations need to consider meeting the emerging needs that have become prominent post-pandemic and highlighting new areas for future research.
Keywords: Students, motivation, autonomy, flexibility, online-learning, hybrid work model, stress, work-life expectations, social support, future leadership, post-pandemic, part-time job.
Description
Masteroppgave(MSc) in Master of Science in Leadership and Organizational Psychology - Handelshøyskolen BI, 2024