COM3015 - Managing Communication in Multicultural Organisations

Leader: Rose-Mari Bezuidenhout

Offered

South Africa Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

The main objective of this unit is to study and acquire theory and practice of communication in multicultural organisations. The unit begins with an introduction to broad principles of organisational communication and considers diverse perspectives and approaches to organisations and communication. Students will be introduced to organisational communication processes, components, influences and interventions. Topics of cultural and gender diversity, interpersonal skills, organisational change and development, globalisation and ethical conduct will be addressed.

Objectives

Students who complete this unit will be able to:

1. Identify and assess diverse theories of organisational communication.
• Identify and evaluate management approaches and their effects on organisational communication.
2. Comprehend and evaluate the implications of specific processes, constructs and elements of organisational communication in terms of:
• Roles and functions
• Organisation structure
• Organisation culture
3. Identify and apply interpersonal communication skills needed in an organization.
4. Appreciate and be sensitized to gender and cultural diversity in an organisational context.
5. Describe organisational and individual change.
6. Explain organisational development
• Apply communication intervention techniques.
7. Practice ethical behaviour in organisational and cultural contexts.
8. To identify elements and causes of dysfunctional organisational communication
• Apply methods of conflict resolution.
9. Identify and evaluate the impact and effects of globalisation on organisational communication.

Assessment

Minor essay (1000 words): 15%
Major essay (1500 words): 30%
Examination 2 hours (2000 words): 40%
+ Group presentations and tutorial participation (formative assessment): 15%

Contact hours

2 one-hour lectures and 2 one-hour tutorials per week

Prohibitions

LIN2160, LIN3160 and COM2015