This experiential exercise uses a collaborative puzzle activity to teach managerial roles, responsibilities, and levels within organizational contexts. By engaging in team-based problem-solving and role-specific tasks, students develop a practical understanding of Mintzberg’s managerial roles and Katz’s skills framework. The activity fosters active learning, enhances engagement, and promotes critical reflection on managerial complexities. Adaptable for undergraduate and graduate management courses, it is designed for immediate classroom application and supports key learning objectives in management education.
CrowneK. A. (2019). Puzzling in teams: A multipurpose group activity for teamwork, communication, problem solving, and creativity. Management Teaching Review, 4(4), 306–316.
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KatzR. L. (2009). Skills of an effective administrator. Harvard Business Review Press.
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KotterJ. P. (1982). What effective general managers really do. Harvard Business Review, 60(6), 156–167.
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McCollumJ.BarberC. R. (2017). It’s a puzzle: A self-organizing activity. Management Teaching Review, 2(3), 166–178.
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MintzbergH. (1973). Nature of managerial work. Harper & Row.
