Państwo i Społeczeństwo / State and Society

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Journal: Państwo i Społeczeństwo / State and Society

Learning business through the analysis of industrial history on the example of artistic casting in Gliwice

Joanna Nowicka

Language: PL | Published: 13-07-2026 | Abstract | 405

This article examines the use of the history of the Royal Iron Foundry and art casting in Gliwice within academic curricula. The research was quasi-experimental in nature, involving pre- and post-tests. The theoretical section of the paper employs a literature review, whilst the empirical section combines a case study with mixed-methods research. The study was conducted in the first half of 2025 amongst 137 business students (logistics, management and production engineering), using questionnaires, knowledge tests, a motivation scale and classroom observation. The research hypothesis was that in higher education, business history is underutilized. The research revealed a high level of student interest in the history of Polish industry, particularly when presented using active teaching methods, as well as a lack of knowledge and a clear need to explore this topic further. The results indicate that integrating industrial history into contemporary higher education, particularly business teaching, motivates students and develops their ability to combine theoretical knowledge with practice. The case study of the Gliwice museum is a source of inspiration, knowledge and motivation for developing the technical knowledge and analytical and creative skills necessary in real-world managerial work.

2026-07-13