Complexities of Change

This unit explores a number of specific aspects of organisational change. It begins by examining the nature of change before discussing the traditional models of change theory.

It then considers how change can be viewed on a number of levels and through a number of different 'conceptual lenses'. It offers a view of change as a reflection of broader social values and includes examples of how people and organisations deal with change drawn from contemporary culture. It looks at various change relationships together with the ethics of change, and encourages discussions of what might constitute both 'good' and 'bad' change.

Specifically, the unit considers the impact of change and the factors that influence change, and examines why some organisations and individuals appear incapable of dealing with or facilitating change.

The unit concludes with a consideration of the limitations of change and discusses what change will not do for individuals and organisations.

Learning Outcomes

  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the traditional theories associated with organisational change and development
  • Critically analyse and evaluate the key concepts and theories that influence organisational change and development
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the factors that influence and drive changes
  • Demonstrate an understanding of why some organisations fail to respond to, or cope with, change
  • Identify different strategies or processes that organisations might employ to foster or encourage an acceptance of change
  • Apply different ways of thinking about, and responding to, organisational change
  • Demonstrate an understanding of how ethical standards and values influence organisational change
  • Understand the social relationships and forces present in a change environment
  • Understand both the role of change and its limitations in an organisational environment

Content Areas

  • Change, Emotion, and Identity
  • Theories of Change
  • Forces for Change
  • Difficulties of Organisational Change
  • Human Behaviour, Change, and Culture
  • Resistance
  • Change and the Charismatic Leader
  • Management Styles
  • Ethics of Change
  • Measuring Change
  • The Future of Change
  • Review

Unit Duration and Workload

This unit involves a total of 36 hours of face to face delivery or self-directed study including educator contact in flexible delivery modes, generating a further 120 hours of self-study per unit including research and related study activities, including assessment. This translates as 13 hours per week for the unit.