21813 Managing People

Subject level: Postgraduate

Handbook description

This subject uses an organisational behaviour theory and practical perspective to explore behaviour in organisations and to develop guidelines for managerial practice. It is an introductory subject which examines the experience of work and the management of human performance at work from the point of view of organisational psychology. Behavioural characteristics of the individual and the group are examined and linked to contemporary practice in exemplar organisations. Theory and research into managerial functions such as leadership, internal communication, conflict management and decision making are discussed. Exploration of managerial skills is the focus of a practical-work program. Theory and application are linked through a structured program of case studies and exercises.

Subject objectives/outcomes

On successful completion of this subject students should be able to:

1. develop leadership skills, sense of emotional intelligence and perspectives of contemporary management in workplace
2. critically evaluate the major theories and models that have been developed to explain the complexities of individual, group and inter-group behaviour in organisations
3. use behavioural science approaches to diagnose individual performance and group processes; and apply these to solve the problems and facilitate performance
4. describe the best practice of successful corporate and identify the key factors in the management of human performance at work
5. appraise organisational management practices with using an organisational psychology framework.

Contribution to graduate profile

The learning goal of the subject is to develop the capacity of leadership in business situations. Students will learn how to play the crucial leadership role in establishing direction by developing a vision of the future; how to align people and how to inspire them to overcome hurdles and achieve high performance in workplace. Managing People requires students to explore basic questions associated with the experience of work and the management of performance in work organisations. The behavioural science framework used in this subject leads students to consider how research findings and theories can assist in the analysis of problems and decisions in culturally diverse and functionally complex organisations located in international as well as local business environments. The practical components require students to address, reflectively and experientially, questions of personal competence, ethical practice, cultural sensitivity and leadership skill development. The mix of theoretical and experiential learning in this subject is designed to help students' to develop and maintain skills and knowledge in their future careers.

Teaching and learning strategies

The subject is presented in lecture-seminar format with a strong practical-work component. Case studies, videos, simulation and experiential exercises are used to link theory and application. A student study guide provides a structured program and links theory and practice for students. Group leadership and facilitation skills are developed through a practical program using peer learning as the development vehicle. This program also assists students to develop skills of team building, conflict management, communication and motivation within an active team context. The case study is used as a major group assessment to develop students' analytical competent and understanding of the complex management process in the real business.

Content

• Introduction to the field — importance of organisational behaviour
• Individual differences in emotional intelligence, personalities, perception, values and performance
• Motivation and job design
• Groups and teams at work
• Leadership
• Managing conflict in organisations
• Behavioural aspects of decision making in organisations
• Effective communication in workplaces

Assessment

Assessment item 1: Group assignment (Objectives 1, 2 and 5)

Assessment item 2: Individual assignment(Objectives 1, 2 and 3)

Assessment item 3: Final Exam (Objectives 2, 3 and 4)

Required text(s)

Nelson, DL, Quick, J, Murray, P, Poole, D and Jones, G, 2008, Organizational Behaviour, for University of Technology, Sydney (Custom Publishing), Australia: Cengage Learning (to be purchased from the Co-op Bookstore)

A separately printed chapter of 'conflict', shrinkwrapped with the textbook (To be purchased together with the above textbook from the Co-op Bookstore)

Managing People Course Resource Pack (handed out by your lecturer)

Faculty of Business, Guide to Writing Assignments (to be purchased from the Co-op Bookstore).