Sequential-choice Random Allocation: An Efficient Process for Matching Students to Mentorships, Job Shadowing and Other Short-Term Experiential Opportunities

Purpose of the Study Resource allocation is more than the matching of two objects, but a systematic and efficient pairing process. Some experiential learning activities, like job-shadow assignments may create matching problems that can be solved with efficient allocation mechanisms. This research describes and evaluates a novel unilateral allocation method developed to efficiently match students with companies. Method/Design and Sample Using repeated measures ANOVA, this study compares the effects of three allocation methods (Resume-Exchange, Complete Randomization, and the proposed Sequential-Choice Random Allocation) used to match sales students and university sales program sponsors for job-shadowing. Results Students rated Sequential-Choice Random Allocation higher on satisfaction and the same method also produced a greater proportion of students receiving their first, second, and third choice preferences. Value to Marketing Educators This research provides educators with a fast and efficient allocation technique to match students with experiential learning activities, especially when employer preferences are not required.