Management and Organisation Behaviour

The aims of this unit of study are: to provide students with an understanding of the fundamentals of organisational behaviour and management theory; to evaluate the underlying values of these theories; to assess the utility and application of the management practices informed by these theories in the Australian context; and to analyse the values of Australian managers concerning behaviour in organisations and to evaluate the effectiveness of these assumptions. This unit of study includes the following topics: Theories of Management, Management Functions and International Business, Business and Organisational Structures; Goals, Plans and Strategies; Leadership and Motivation; Problem Solving and Decision Making; Ethics and Social Responsibility; Innovation and Change. Overview of the development of organisation/management theory; analysis of scientific management and human relations theory; individual behaviour/perception, personality, learning, motivation; group behaviour: group dynamics, conflict resolution, leadership, concentrating on Australian case studies and incorporating a consideration of issues of gender, ethnicity and age; applications of management/organisation theory in Australia; communication processes, and quality of working life. The learning and teaching in the unit and prepares students for further study and the workplace by supporting them to develop research, essay and report writing skills as well as the ability to work as part of a self-managing team.