Introduction to management
Mr Rolf Bergman
Distance * First semester * Prerequisites Nil.
Objectives Upon completion of this subject students should: have an understanding and appreciation of the managerial role and the contribution managers make to organisational effectiveness; develop an understanding of the major managerial functions; demonstrate an awareness of the major behavioural science theories and concepts relating to the behaviour, performance and productivity of individuals and groups in organisations; be capable of formulating and critically evaluating alternative courses of managerial action; and be able to analyse organisational situations using the knowledge and frameworks gained during the course in order to better understand, predict and influence the behaviour of individuals and groups within organisations.
Synopsis This subject provides students with a basic understanding of management functions and the process by which managers influence individual and work group performance. Topics include the functions and roles of management and the historical development of management theory, the influence of individual characteristics such as perception, personality, attitudes and values, motivation, characteristics of groups, decision-making and communication, leadership and interpersonal skills, managing conflict and change.
Assessment Individual essay (1500 words): 30% * Case study (3000 words): 30% * Final examination (2 hours): 40%
Prescribed texts
Robbins S P Management 4th edn, Prentice- Hall,1994
Robbins S P Training in interpersonal skills: TIPS for managing people at work Prentice-Hall, 1989
Bergman R and Burley H T MITS: Management interactive tutorial software Prentice-Hall, 1994