Social Technology and Action Research in Business Administration Education: The Experience of the “Gestão na Prática” Project

a experiência do projeto "Gestão na Prática"

Abstract

This article analyzes the methodological evolution and impacts of the Supervised Practical Activities (APS) course, linked to the extension project “Gestão na Prática” of the Administration program at UFMS-Aquidauana, during the 2024–2025 cycles. Structured as a social technology based on action research, the course is organized into an eight-phase cycle that articulates diagnosis, intervention, and monitoring in real contexts, through consulting for micro and small enterprises, social organizations, and public institutions, covering sectors such as commerce, services, indigenous communities, and the prison system. The results reveal a dual impact, both on student training and local development, particularly regarding strategic analysis, adaptation of management tools, and the articulation between theory and practice. The analysis also highlights pedagogical challenges related to the transition from an academic logic to extensionist practice and the initial difficulty of students in converting data into strategic decisions. These challenges were addressed throughout 2025 through strengthened monitoring, faculty mediation, and formalization of processes. It is concluded that the model contributes to the integration of teaching, research, and extension by generating territorial interventions and promoting the development of technical and interpersonal competencies.