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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2022 - 2023

Module Title
Module Code
School

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 9 Credit Rating 10
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

To lead is to change. The purpose of this module is to explore the multi-layered, multi-faceted concept of leadership in a manner that exposes the crucial role of a leader in bringing about change. This module will examine some of the vast literature that underpins leadership theory, giving special attention to how each theoretical approach could be applied in real-world organisations. It will explore the impact of modern business environments and the nature of organisations on the leadership function. It will examine the core tasks of leaders in initiating, implementing and anchoring change. It will consider the impact of a leader on sustaining a change-ready organisation. In essence, the module is designed to explore how leadership theory can inform and direct the way leadership is practised.

Learning Outcomes

1. Explain the nature of leadership at the level of the individual and the organisation
2. Critique different perspectives of leadership, as well as identifying the contributions to knowledge of each.
3. Appreciate the effect of the changing world of work on leadership behaviour
4. Evaluate the probable impact of theories of leadership on implementing change.
5. Explore a case of individual leadership and examine how prevailing leadership theory helps illuminate the case
6. Develop and apply leadership skills to manage change in an effective, ethical and responsible way.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture48Classroom and/or online lectures
Independent Study80Assigned readings and preparation for lectures
Assignment Completion80Critical Incident Assignment
Online activity30Completion of weekly online activities and discussion fora
Online activity12Asynchronous video material: both class based and supplementary expert videos
Total Workload: 250

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

What is leadership?
Definitions of Leadership, indicators of Leadership Effectiveness, overview of major research leadership theories.

Stratgic Leadership
How leaders influence organisational performance, conditions affecting the need for strategic leadership.

Change management
Diagnosing change, managing resistance to change, change architecture, strategies for organisational effectiveness.

Leading Change
The Challenge of organisational change, Sustaining organisational effectiveness, leadership in practice, the leadership and strategies for change

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment% Examination Weight%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Hayes, J.: 2014, The Theory & Practice of Change Management, Palgrave,
  • Carnall, C. & By, R.T.: 2014, Managing change in organisations, Pearson,
  • Buchanan, D.A. & Badham, R.J.: 2008, Power, politics and organisational change, Sage,
Other Resources

None
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