Leader: Dr Simon Albrecht

Offered

Caulfield First semester 2008 (Day)
Caulfield First semester 2008 (Off-campus)
Caulfield Second semester 2008 (Day)
Caulfield Second semester 2008 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit reviews theoretical models and empirical research on work teams and groups in organisations. Various types of teams and their development will be examined and the factors which influence effective team performance will be examined. The unit also introduces an overarching and systematic approach to understanding and managing the training, learning and development functions within organisational contexts.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Describe and evaluate three models or theories relating teams and workgroups to organisational outcomes;
2. Describe how four general input factors (e.g. job design, team composition) influence team effectiveness;
3. Describe how six general process factors (e.g. decision making, self-reflecting, innovating) influence team effectiveness;
4. Describe how four 'emergent psychological states' (e.g. group development, mental models, group dynamics) influence team effectiveness;
5. Define what constitutes team effectiveness (e.g. performance, attitudes and behaviour) and evaluate empirical literature linking team characteristics to organisational outcomes;
6. Describe and evaluate four measures or diagnostics of team functioning;
7. Describe six team interventions or facilitation techniques suitable to enable team improvement and/or innovation;
8. Describe how psychological theory can be applied to training and development design;
9. Describe the components of the training process;
10. Describe and conduct a training needs analysis;
11. Demonstrate skills in conducting a training session;
12. Describe methods for maximising the transfer of training;
13. Describe and demonstrate methods for evaluating training.

Assessment

Attendance at scheduled seminars plus 4 assessment pieces:
1. Essay topic 'understanding team processes' (25%),
2. Training needs analysis assignment (25%),
3. Applied report: Diagnosing work teams (25%),
4. Applied training activity presentation (25%).
Students are required to complete all assessment tasks.

Contact hours

3 hours per week