How do contemporary organisations function? How are decisions made about the organization and design of work, the structure of an organisation and who is accountable or responsible for different activities, or about how the organisation will be led? This module is designed to introduce Year in Management students to some of the fundamental concepts and ideas about the management of organisations and the key functions that they serve. In addition to providing a introduction to the languages and practices of contemporary organisations this module will look at a wide range of theories of management, beginning with classical management perspectives like Scientific Management or Human Relations Theory, while also considering more contemporary management practices like Culture Management and different styles and practices of leadership. By taking a case study focused approach, it support students to develop a critical engagement with how contemporary business and management organisations operate, prompting reflection on the ethics and fairness of contemporary forms of work.
Total contact hours: 30
Private study hours: 120
Total study hours: 150
Main assessment methods (100% coursework):
Individual Critical Summary – 1000 words (30%)
Individual Essay – 2500 Words (70%)
Reassessment methods
100% Coursework
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. understand key terms and theories relevant to the management of business organisations, particularly those relevant to organisational design and structure.
2. understand the historical development of management theory and how it is used in contemporary organisations.
3. understand the connection between management practices and the internal and external business environment.
4. critically reflect on the ethics and fairness of contemporary forms of business and management practice.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. communicate effectively about business and management theories across different contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
2. analyse and interpret empirical examples through the lens of various management theories.
3. retrieve information from a variety of sources and showcase critical information literacy in integrating it into work.
4. plan and organise work and study independently.
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