Overview
This course provides DBA students with a basic understanding of the major theoretical perspectives in organization behavior, organization theory and strategic organization.
The readings selected constitute either classics or near classics in the field or integrative works that summarize and critique those classics, and provide an overview of the most important conceptual insights in these fields rather than examples of the most recent studies. Students examine these theories and their applications with a critical eye to determine the conceptual and practical strengths and limitations of the material and its applicability to different administrative situations.
Athabasca University Library: Students are encouraged to browse the Library's Web site to review the Library collection of journal databases, electronic journals, and digital reference tools: http://library.athabascau.ca.
Outline
This course is divided into 10 Lessons.
- Lesson 1: Scientific Inquiry and the Scope of Organization and Management Theory
- Lesson 2: Bureaucracy, Classical Management, and Structural Contingency
- Lesson 3: Behavioral Theory of the Firm
- Lesson 4: Strategy, Structure, and Change
- Lesson 5: Resource Dependence and Organizational Stakeholders
- Lesson 6: Institutional Theory
- Lesson 7: Organizational Culture and Identity
- Lesson 8: Networks and Organizations
- Lesson 9: Critical Approaches, Power, and Domination
- Lesson 10: What Does It All Mean?
Learning outcomes
By the end of this course:
- Students will become familiarized with core concepts, theories, and perspectives in organization studies.
- Students will develop the ability to read, present, and discuss research articles.
- Students will learn to discuss the readings using the relevant terminology and articulate their ideas and inferences about them.
- Students will practice critical thinking about organizational research.
- Students will engage in self-reflection about their role in organizing and doing research on organizations.
Materials
Digital course materials
Links to the following course materials will be made available in the course:
Morgan, G. (2006). Images of organization (4th ed.). Sage.
Vibert, C. (2004). Theories of macro-organizational behaviour: A handbook of ideas and explanations. E. Sharpe.
Other materials
Non-textbook readings for this course are provided as AU Library links, web links, PDF files, videos, or slideshows in the DDBA-800 Digital Reading Room (DRR).
Evaluation
Your grade will be based on the successful completion of two individual assignments and on your participation in moderated group discussions.
| Activity | Weight |
| Participation in the Discussions | 30% |
| Discussion Paper and Leadership | 30% |
| Final Paper | 40% |
| Total | 100% |
To receive a passing grade in this course, you must meet these minimum standards:
- receive a minimum of 70% on the participation component; and
- receive an average grade of70 % over all course compone