Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit provides three modules that help to prepare the school leader to effect knowledgeable and intelligent change in her/his organization. Module one provides an introduction to theories of strategic change, and contexts for effecting change. Module two explores theories and practices for researching and leading change in schools, and managing associated human and social resources. Module three explores critical areas of concern for school development and improved performance across subject areas, and what leaders need to know to facilitate substantive and sustainable change.

Objectives

At the completion of this Unit, students will be able to:

1. Engage in meaningful consideration of theories of change, and assumptions that underlie change practices.
2. Use action research concepts and practices, development and performance principles, and organizational leadership to develop plans for facilitating strategic change.
3. Demonstrate awareness of unit topics - such as strategic change management theory and practice, school wide development and performance planning, and the management of organisational knowledge, learning and human and social resources in processes of leading change - in journal entries, and by engaging in the development and documentation of progress on an in-class group learning project and school and/or community collaboration project.
4. Read with discernment and write appropriately and substantially as a professional/scholarly action researcher.

Assessment

The written work (8,000 words) will be required across three assignments detailed in the following summary: 1. Review and report of action research project related knowledge from empirical articles and professional setting (4000 words) (Objectives 1, 2, 4, 5) Weight: 50%. 2. Reflective journal writing (2500 words) (Objectives 1, 3, 4) Weight: 30%. 3. Work self-directedly and collaboratively with peers by participating in the online forum discussions and in the design, construction and peer evaluation of a group learning project (1500 words): 20% (Objectives 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5).

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Philip Riley

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

EDF6901