Description of the assessment
This module introduces Organisational Behaviour (OB) theory and research to help you gain an understanding of the range of individual, group and organisational factors which can influence the way that employees behave in the workplace.
You are required to complete a progressive assignment, building a portfolio of FIVE short answers (600-800 words each), on a week-by-week basis, to satisfy the module learning outcomes:
1.
Demonstrate knowledge of Organisational Behaviour (OB) theory and research
2.
Apply OB knowledge to analyse the causes of behaviour in the workplace at an individual, team and organisational level
Please note, you MUST attempt and submit answers to all FIVE questions, but you will be given the opportunity to select your best FOUR answers for grading.
This is a progressive assessment and therefore many support plan extensions do NOT apply. Please read the details of your plan carefully if you have a support plan in place or ask your tutor.
Assessment Content
Applying your knowledge from the module to the Superbrand case study (Appendix A), answer questions 1-5. Support your answers with reference to relevant literature and research in the related areas using the Harvard Referencing system and examples from the case study to illustrate your points where appropriate.
Q1. On completion of week 4:
What aspects of rational organisation design are demonstrated at Superbrand? What are the potential advantages and disadvantages of this approach and what techniques could be used to minimise any problems?
Q2. On completion of week 6
With reference to Hackman and Oldham’s Job Characteristics Model, compare the characteristics of the jobs carried out by the grocery team and the nightshift workers. Discuss the possible impact of this on the job satisfaction of workers in the two departments. How could the nightshift manager redesign the work to improve attitudes to work in his team?
Q3. On completion of week 8
Compare the approach to leadership in the grocery and checkout department. How is this impacting on teamwork in the two department?
Q4. On completion of week 10
What could be causing conflict between the part time and full time employees on the Nightshift? How could the Nightshift manager try to resolve this?
Q5. On completion of week 12
Why didn’t the change in technology help the store to reduce its wastage rate? What can the organisation learn about introducing effective change from the grocery managers approach to the problem?
All answers must be:
•
Between 600 and 800 words long. (NOTE: 800 words is the MAXIMUM word limit for each answer. There is no +10% allowance on these questions.)
