Induction

Not-for-credit module

This is the first module of the programme which gives an orientation to the course and the online learning style. It does not carry credits, and students are encouraged to go through the material in this module at their own pace and get accustomed to the online medium.

The Essence of Leadership

The aim of this module is to critically appraise theories of leadership and how leaders act to influence others directly, and also indirectly, by influencing organisational systems and structures. The module will focus on issues of leadership behaviours and skills required to achieve sustainable success and development for groups and organisations. The module will include an analysis of the activities of individuals in leadership roles in an organisation, or organisations, of the participant’s choice. Participants will be encouraged to use their experience of their own leadership role to inform discussions, enquiry and critical thinking.

Building and Leading High Performing Teams

The aim of this module is to appraise critically theories of teams, teamworking and how leadership may be exercised in teams. The module will focus on issues of how effective and creative teams can be developed and maintained in organisations, to achieve a high level of performance. Consideration will be given to enduring teams, such as strategic senior leadership teams, as well as temporary teams – such as project teams – and also teams that cross departmental and organisational boundaries, and virtual teams. The module will include an analysis of a team or teams in an organisation, or organisations, of the participant’s choice. Participants will be encouraged to use their own experience of team membership to inform their enquiry and critical thinking.

Coaching and Mentoring Skills for Success

This module will focus on supporting students as they develop the coaching and mentoring skills that are instrumental in building sustainable success for individuals and groups. It will have a strong underpinning of theory and practical application which will be supported through peer to peer learning.

Successful Strategic Thinking

The aim of the module is to build awareness and understanding of strategic thinking and strategic leadership and their contribution to sustainable organisational performance by reviewing relevant theories, models and concepts.  Participants will develop a critical appreciation of the complexity of relationships and tensions associated with developing and implementing strategy.  They will be encouraged to use their own experience to inform discussion, enquiry, critical thinking and reflection.