Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit explores the systemic and interrelated nature of the modern organisation and its environment. It provides a strongly based theoretical framework for the understanding of these relationships and a set of skills and tools for their analysis. It provides practical experience in developing an understanding of internally developed dynamics and experience in the use of micro-world simulations for an understanding of dynamics of the external and policy-making environment. Finally, it provides an understanding of two powerful systems technologies for analysis and change in organisations.

Objectives

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

• develop an understanding of the interrelationships between the internal structures and dynamics of a business and those of its external environment
• develop an understanding of the tools of systems thinking and systems diagnosis and understand their application to improving managerial practice
• develop analytic and thinking skills for application and further development in other units of the Masters
• develop an understanding of intervention strategies that can be used to bring about organisational change.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Jeff McLean

Contact hours

3 hours per week