Module 2: UNIT 2: Workplaces, Culture, and Ethics & CSR

Welcome to Module 2

Organizational culture refers to culture related to organizations including schools, universities, not-for-profit groups, government agencies, and business entities. Alternative terms include corporate culture and company culture. The term corporate culture emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was used by managers, sociologists, and organizational theorists in the 1980s. Organizational culture influences the ways in which people interact, the context within which knowledge is created, the resistance they will have towards certain changes, and ultimately the way they share (or the way they do not share) knowledge.
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a strategy undertaken by companies to not just grow profits, but also to take an active and positive social role in the world around them. The term is also associated with the related term corporate citizenship. CSR is an approach that espouses the notion that a company can do good in the world and make a difference to improve social order. It's a topic that can engage the board of directors in an organization, as CSR reflects company culture and business practices. Social responsibility is a broad topic; it includes human aspects, such as having ethical labor practices both internally and as part of a larger supply chain.

Module Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

1.    Explore the basics of theoretical schools of management thought. (CLO 1)
2.    Describe the basic environmental forces impacting managerial work. (CLO 2)
3.    Explain the basics of management and how they work independently and collaboratively. (CLO 3)
4.    Explain the differences from a historical perspective of management and leadership. (CLO 5)
5.    Explore the history of the major factors in work design. (CLO 7)

(CLO = Course Learning Outcome)

To Do

Please read/watch all of the module learning materials (readings, presentations, videos, etc.) and complete all assignments/assessments listed below. If you have questions, please contact the course instructor or ask in the Questions About This Course forum.

Readings and Presentations:

  • Textbook Reading: Williams (2022) Chapter 3: Organizational Environments and Cultures (MLO 1-3)
  • Textbook Reading: Williams (2022) Chapter 4: Ethics and Social Responsibility (MLO 1-2, 4-5)
  • PowerPoint Presentation: MGT 201 OT 1 - Spring 2024 - Unit 2 Workplaces, Culture, and Ethic (MLO 1-5)

Videos:

Assignments/Assessments:

  • Submit: Discussion #2; on Canvas (MLO 1-5)

  • Study for Comprehension Quiz 1

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