Course Title: Approaches to Social and Organisational Change

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Approaches to Social and Organisational Change

Credit Points: 12


Course Code

Campus

Career

School

Learning Mode

Teaching Period(s)

BUSM1443

City Campus

Postgraduate

150H Health Sciences

Face-to-Face

 Sem 2 2007,
Sem 2 2008,
Sem 2 2009

Course Coordinator: Associate Professor Rosalie Holian

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 5943

Course Coordinator Email:rosalie.holian@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Location: Building 108 Level 16

Course Coordinator Availability: email at any time


Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

Pre-requisite Courses:
BUSM 1438

BUSM 1439



Course Description

This module explores the history of quality methods and how they are used in organisations around the world. The dominant approaches to quality within this culture are identified. Management tools that are currently considered to be most effective are explored. This module introduces students to the essential concepts, skills, tools and techniques used by the quality movement. It provides opportunities to use quality tools in practice and introduces students to the work of major Quality thinkers and developers.


Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

  1. Knowledge application and critical analysis of method, concepts and theories as applied to organisations.
  2. Critical analysis of the cognitive, emotive and motivational stances taken by self and others toward quality methods.
  3. Verbal and written communciation.
  4. Action research skills. Responsible and ethical approaches to action research.
  5. International orientation toward quality.
  6. Contextual and environmental awareness of effects of quality methods.
  7. Ability to work professionally in the field through the application of learning from the course to work within organisations.


Learning Objectives:

  • This course will develop students’ ability to manage quality systems and lead towards a growing understanding of approaches to management of innovation and change.

Expected Learning Outcomes:

  • Understanding of the history of the quality movement globally and the various approaches used by organisations to support quality management.
  • Knowledge of the quality management tools that are currently in general use.
  • Understanding of basic statistical analysis within the context of continuous improvement, including the concept of variation.
  • Working knowledge of at least six quality management tools.
  • Developing ability to access literature or computer based resources in order to use quality management tools.
  • Developing a conceptual and practical understanding of the core approaches to the quality movement.
  • Appreciation of future trends and issues in the quality movement.
  • Ability to use selected appropriate advanced quality tools if, and when, required.
  • Understanding of how quality methods can be used to facilitate innovation in organisations.
  • Understanding of how to apply quality techniques to achieve best practice.
  • Ongoing personal growth in line with the ISM Program objectives and personal learning contracts.
  • Ongoing development of communication and team skills within the learning community.


Overview of Learning Activities

Workshop:

The workshop will be interactive with some activities involving the whole learning community and others being conducted in small groups.


Overview of Learning Resources

Recommended Reading:

Students are to complete required reading and any other activities advised prior to the start of the module. This material provides background to the topics included in the workshop. Specific references to the texts may be made from time to time during the workshop.


Overview of Assessment

Individual Assessment: Written Report and Presentation.

Group Assessment: Written material and Presentations.