Kurt Lewin proposed that “there is nothing so practical as a good theory” (Lewin 1951).
It is with this in mind that the purpose of this module is to critically explore and evaluate academic theories and concepts within a real world context.
This will be accomplished by the on-going development of a critical e-portfolio in which you compare, contrast and critically evaluate the potential linkages, tensions and contradictions between a chosen academic conceptual framework and its lived experience.
Ideally your portfolio should draw on your own primary research in terms of people’s views, experience and stories and a range of appropriate academic literature. Secondary research can also be used to support and enhance the discussion.
This e-portfolio will be developed using Mahara (through Moodle), and should include approximately 3,000 words of critical commentary.
Developing the portfolio
The portfolio should be designed to critically explore concepts in the real world of management and organisations.
As discussed in class sessions, students will be required to develop an initial focus drawing from concepts discussed and confirmed in the early class sessions. An example table of concepts is given on the following page.
• On an ongoing basis gather and upload appropriate evidence-for example: media files, photographs, web links, video clips, text downloads, to support your analysis and evaluation of the concept(s), emerging themes and their application to the real world of management and organisations.
• Integrate critical commentary (i.e. text boxes etc.) to develop your analysis and evaluation.
• You are encouraged to use opportunities within class discussions to share ideas on the development of the portfolio
• Additionally you are strongly encouraged to participate in the Moodle forums to share your research, and enhance opportunities
• The portfolio offers opportunities to adopt creative and innovative approaches for presenting evidence and the overall portfolio.
• Views that form part of your final e- portfolio need to be made accessible to both contact tutors.
Referencing Requirements:
• Module reading list
• Electronic resources available through Kenrick Library e.g. ABI, MyiLibrary
• Google Scholar
• There is a wealth of information available via the internet-however, in the spirit of the module you should consider how do you use this material in a more critical manner.
the following is the module reading list:
Use of learning resources and guided reading will be discussed as part of the introduction to the module and will also be highlighted at appropriate stages within individual class sessions.
Arnold, J. et al Work Psychology. Understanding Human Behaviour in the Workplace. Harlow, FT Prentice Hall
Baron, R, Kerr, N. (2015) Group Process, Group Decision, Group Action. Maidenhead. Open University Press.
Brooks, I. (2003) Organisational Behaviour: Individuals, Groups and Organisation. Harlow. FT Prentice Hall.
Douglas, T. (2014). Survival in Groups. OU Press
Fineman, S ed. (2014). Emotional Organisation; the Passions and the Power. Blackwell. Available electronically through MyiLibrary – BCU Library.
Fineman, S, (2013). Understanding Emotion at Work. London. Sage
Fineman, S. Gabriel, Y. (1996). Experiencing Organisations. London. Sage
Moon, J. (2015). Critical Thinking. An Exploration of Theory and Practice. Abingdon. Routledge
Moon, J. (2016). Learning Journals. A Handbook for Reflective Practice and Professional Development. London. Routledge.
Pedler, M., Burgoyne, J & Boydell, T. (2014). A Manager’s Guide to Self Development. McGraw-Hill.
Schein, E. (2016). Organizational Psychology. Englewood Cliffs. Prentice Hall