Study Guide

Objectives (course unit)

This course covers various aspects of organizational communication, including traditional and contemporary communication models and theories, as well as practical communication activities. It focuses on internal and external communication, communication channels, organisational culture, and technology in communication.

After completing the course, the students will be able to:
• distinguish between different communication models and theories
• apply appropriate communication theories in various workplace situations and contexts
• reflect on their own and their organisations’ communication patterns and suggest measures for improvement
• adapt their communication style according to a range of cultural and interpersonal factors
• create guidelines for effective internal and external communication
• critically examine the role of technology in communication

Content (course unit)

• What are the essentials of effective organizational communication?
• What are communication needs and capabilities of modern organisations?
• How can communication practices in organizations support achieving organizational goals?
• What determines the choice of channels, media, style and tone in organisational communication?
• How to measure success in communication?

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2) (course unit)

The student can describe main communication theories and models. The student demonstrates familiarity with main communication channels and can produce routine oral and written communications.

Assessment criteria, good (3-4) (course unit)

The student can explain main communication theories and models competently and use examples to illustrate the application of these theories in practice. The student is able to use various communication channels and can produce quality oral and written communications for standard business contexts. The student is able to present fairly complex ideas and information, take account of the context and cultural background of the stakeholders involved in a communication situation, and adapt their communication approach accordingly. The student is able to assume the role of a junior level communicator in a company.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5) (course unit)

The student can explain main communication theories and models extensively and draw on them to create appropriate communication solutions. The student is able to use various communication channels effectively and can produce high quality oral and written communications for versatile business contexts. The student is able to present complex ideas and information, anticipate the context, take account of the cultural background and seniority of the stakeholders involved in a communication situation, evaluate and adapt their communication approach to suit standard and challenging business environments. The student is able to assume the role of a senior level communicator in a company.

Location and time

TAMK campus according to timetable.

Exam schedules

See Methods and Grounds for Evaluation.

Assessment methods and criteria

The assessment is based on successful completion of the following tasks and activities:
• Internal Communication Scenario - 30% (group task)
• Communication Manual - 30% (group task)
• Engagement and Course Participation – 40% (individual contribution)

Assessment scale

0-5

Teaching methods

Lectures, discussions, group work, independent study.

Learning materials

Materials will be provided in Moodle and are expected to be supplemented by the student’s own research and enquiry-based learning.

Student workload

Total hours: 5 cr x 27 h = 135 h including:
• contact lessons 21 hours (7 x 3 h)
• independent study 114 hours

Completion alternatives

As this is a tailor-made programme, no alternative ways of completing the course are available.

Further information

- Mandatory attendance 80%.
- Active participation in class discussions and group work is expected.