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 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:

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

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Mary Anderson

Contact hours

3 hours per week