Supporting online learning in a hyperflexible MBA program - A Practice Report

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63608/ssj.3926

Keywords:

Flexibility, Self-paced learning, Hyperflexible learning, Student equity, MBA

Abstract

This practice report critically examines the approaches in CQUniversity’s hyperflexible online Master of Business
Administration (Leadership) program, focusing on strategies employed to effectively support student learning. Drawing
on contemporary research, the study analyses how flexible course structures, inclusive pedagogical approaches, and
adaptive technological integration foster equitable access and lifelong learning opportunities. Flexible course structures
are particularly beneficial for non-traditional students, who can find rigid instructional approaches unsuitable or
challenging. The report evaluates both strengths and challenges of the hyperflexible model, positioning it as a
sustainable alternative to conventional time-bound education. In doing so, it provides insights into how higher education
can evolve to better serve diverse and non-traditional student cohorts.

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Author Biographies

Anja Pabel, CQUniversity

Anja Pabel, PhD, BBus (Hons I) is the Manager and Academic Lead of CQUniversity’s hyperflexible online Leadership and Innovation Courses, including the MBA (Leadership). In her role, Anja leads the development and monitoring of the leadership and innovation courses, with a focus on course performance and improvement, student support, and maintaining educational standards in line with university policy. Anja has achieved Senior Fellowship with Advance HE (SFHEA), recognising her leadership in teaching and learning, her mentoring of colleagues, and her contributions to curriculum development. Her research interests include sustainable tourism and student experience in higher education. She has a demonstrated track record in publishing and disseminating her research, with more than 50 publications. She has received awards for her commitment to learning and teaching.

Colin Beer, CQUniversity

Colin Beer is Academic Lead (Accreditation) in the School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences at CQUniversity. He has extensive experience in educational technology and curriculum design, and has published and presented widely in Australia and internationally. His work focuses on using data‑informed and technology‑enhanced approaches to improve learning, teaching, and program quality in higher education.

 

Michelle Thompson, CQUniversity

Michelle Thompson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Business and Law at CQUniversity. She is Head of Course for the Graduate Certificate in Social Innovation Leadership, and provides academic support across the University’s suite of online and hyperflexible management, leadership, and innovation courses, including the MBA (Leadership). Michelle’s teaching spans business and management disciplines, including tourism and innovation. Her research interests focus on regional and sustainable tourism development, with emerging research interests in social innovation and online learning and education. Michelle’s dedication to learning and teaching has been recognised with awards for excellence in learning and teaching, and as a Fellow with Advance HE (FHEA).

Noal Atkinson, CQUniversity

Noal Atkinson SFHEA is the Course Manager for the MBA Leadership. Recognised as a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, Noal brings a strong track record in academic leadership, innovation, and learner‑centred curriculum development. His work focuses on transforming complex ideas into clear, engaging learning pathways while collaborating closely with academic teams and stakeholders to enhance student success and strengthen the impact of postgraduate leadership education.

 

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Published

01-03-2026

How to Cite

Pabel, A., Beer, C., Thompson, M., Atkinson, N., Borysova, Y., & MacRae, D. (2026). Supporting online learning in a hyperflexible MBA program - A Practice Report. Student Success. https://doi.org/10.63608/ssj.3926

Issue

Online First

Section

Practice Reports

License

Copyright (c) 2022 Anja Pabel, Colin Beer, Michelle Thompson, Noal Atkinson, Yuliia Borysova, Danielle MacRae

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Authors retain copyright and grant the Journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution International Licence (CC BY 4.0) that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgement of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal.