Question
You are to complete your course portfolio that you started at the beginning of the semester. Your portfolio must provide the reader with an overview of the topics covered in this course. This part must contain a section for each unit taught during the semester. For each unit, 150 words is sufficient.The report should be in bullet point form and cover the essentials or key concepts you have learned You will discuss which subtopic of each unit was more interesting to you. Unit 1 : Foundations of Management Unit 2: Leading Unit 3:Management Challenges Unit 4: Planning Controlling and Organizing
Solution
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Isabelle
Master ยท Tutor for 5 years
Answer
**Unit 1: Foundations of Management*** **Key Concepts:** This unit explored fundamental management principles, including the evolution of management theory (scientific management, administrative principles, human relations movement, etc.), different management functions (planning, organizing, leading, controlling), and the importance of managerial skills (technical, human, conceptual). It also covered various management levels (top, middle, first-line) and the different roles managers play (interpersonal, informational, decisional). Understanding the external environment and its impact on organizations was also a key focus.* **Most Interesting Subtopic:** The evolution of management theory was particularly fascinating. Seeing how management approaches have changed over time, adapting to societal shifts and new research, provided valuable context for understanding current management practices. The contrast between the early emphasis on efficiency (scientific management) and the later focus on human needs (human relations) highlighted the complexity of managing people effectively.**Unit 2: Leading*** **Key Concepts:** This unit delved into leadership styles, including autocratic, democratic, laissez-faire, transformational, and servant leadership. We examined motivational theories (Maslow's hierarchy of needs, Herzberg's two-factor theory, expectancy theory) and their application in motivating employees. Communication, both within teams and across the organization, was also a key focus, including effective communication strategies and barriers to communication. Finally, we explored the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership.* **Most Interesting Subtopic:** The exploration of different leadership styles was most compelling. Learning about the strengths and weaknesses of each style, and understanding the situational factors that influence their effectiveness, provided valuable insights into how to adapt leadership approaches to different contexts. The concept of transformational leadership, with its focus on inspiring and motivating followers, was particularly impactful.**Unit 3: Management Challenges*** **Key Concepts:** This unit addressed contemporary challenges faced by managers, including globalization, technological advancements, ethical dilemmas, and diversity management. We discussed strategies for managing change within organizations and the importance of organizational culture. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability were also explored, emphasizing the growing importance of ethical and environmentally conscious business practices.* **Most Interesting Subtopic:** The discussion of ethical dilemmas and corporate social responsibility was most engaging. Analyzing real-world case studies of ethical lapses in businesses highlighted the importance of ethical decision-making and the potential consequences of unethical behavior. The increasing focus on sustainability and the role of businesses in addressing environmental challenges resonated deeply.**Unit 4: Planning, Controlling, and Organizing*** **Key Concepts:** This unit covered the core management functions of planning, controlling, and organizing. We explored different types of planning (strategic, tactical, operational) and the importance of setting SMART goals. Organizing topics included organizational structures (functional, divisional, matrix), delegation, and centralization vs. decentralization. Control systems, performance measurement, and quality management were also key areas of focus.* **Most Interesting Subtopic:** Learning about different organizational structures and their implications for communication, efficiency, and innovation was most insightful. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each structure (functional, divisional, matrix) provided a framework for analyzing how organizations can be designed to achieve their strategic goals.