MGC2021 - Organisations and society - 2017

The world of work in the 21st century presents exciting opportunities and new challenges for thinking through relationships that exist between organisations and society. At the heart of such debates is how organisations influence and in turn are influenced by the socio-cultural contexts in which they are situated. In this unit we will begin by introducing a framework for conceptualising the organisational/socio-cultural interface and exploring how this impacts those who are situated in and around organisations. We will then focus on specific themes common to contemporary modes of working where organisational dynamics and socio-cultural expectations or beliefs come together. By the end of the unit, students will be able to articulate and apply contemporary theories of organising to a range of ethical, social and cultural challenges that coalesce in and around today's organisations.

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. compare a classical and contemporary understanding of work organisations with reference to key academic theories and approaches
2. critically assess key theoretical debates surrounding topics introduced in the unit with reference to the organisational/socio-cultural interface
3. evaluate the different ways in which the organisational/socio-cultural interface manifests in and around organisational contexts
4. demonstrate evidence of skills in independent assessment and synthesis of academic literature and the effective communication of academic knowledge
5. demonstrate recognition of ethical, social and cultural issues and their impact on multiple stakeholders.

Within semester assessment: 70% + Examination: 30%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. The unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Associate Professor Kathleen Riach (First semester)

Professor Gavin Jack (Second semester)

MGB1010 or MGC1010 or MGF1010 or MGP1010 or MGS1010 or MGW1010