Additional Assessment Item - Essay
You will be required to write a 3000 word essay as follows:
Drawing on information from an organisation with which you are familiar, (a) analyse and evaluate a selection of relevant management theories in the context of your organisation; and (b) compile a series of recommendations for that organisation that would enhance the practice of management of one of the topics selected from the three options below.
Either
a. The role of culture within the organisation.
Or
b. The ability of the organisation to manage change and to learn and adapt as a whole organisation.
Or
c. How the organisation manages diversity.
In either instance, you will need to demonstrate an understanding and critical analysis of the theories surrounding the topic, as well as evaluating the practical reality in the workplace.
Please refer to relevant academic literature and source materials, as well as drawing upon your knowledge of the organisation.
Rationale:
This assignment is designed to:
- familiarise students with the various theories relating to organisations and organisational planning and control.
- encourage students to discern the strengths and weaknesses of the wide array of theoretical contributions;
- encourage students to use empirical evidence to support their arguments.
Marking Criteria
Your assignment will be assessed according to the extent to which it has:
- answered the question set, kept to the topic and covered only relevant issues;
- shown adequate use of a range of academic resources (e.g., journal articles, management books) to support arguments and recommendations;
- taken a critical orientation to the topic, theories and readings;
- built a sound argument using analysis, explanation and interpretation;
- incorporated original thinking based on a clear evaluation of evidence, treating sources critically and acknowledging their strengths and weaknesses;
- provided a well structured, clear and consistent line of reasoning across the assignment, including an effective introduction and conclusion;
- demonstrated readability (this relates to structure; clarity of expression; explanations; linkages and flow; grammar and spelling; use of headings; correct referencing and presentation).
Requirements
This assignment is to be submitted by email at or before midnight on Thursday 21 January 2016 to siwright@csu.edu.au.