Innovating and Interacting in a Multi-Professional Community (5cr)

Objectives (course unit)

Student

- is familiar with research and networking practices related to interprofessionalism and multifunctionality

- can construct and maintain multidisciplinary networks

- can utilize system theories in his/her own field

- can utilize futures studies’ research and methods.

Content (course unit)

- Sociological systems theories

- Ecosystem interactions in a multi-professional community

- Application of system theories in one's own work environment

- Multi-professional dialogue, committing also to the values ​​of the others

- Various targets for innovation

- Scenario working

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

Satisfactory (1-2)

The student can define research and networking practices related to interprofessionalism and multifunctionality. He/she can name multidisciplinary networks and identify futures studies’ methods and the basics of system theories.

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

Good (3-4)

The student can compare research and networking practices related to interprofessionalism and multifunctionality. He/she can construct multidisciplinary networks and apply system theories, as well as utilize futures studies’ research and methods.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5) (course unit)

Commendable (5)

The student understands the functions of ecosystems in a multidimensional way and can apply system theories in his/her own work environment.

Assessment criteria, pass/fail (course unit)

Approved / Rejected

The objectives of the course have not been achieved; all aspects of the course have not been passed.

Location and time

27.08.2025 15.00 - 18.00 Online (Teams Meeting): Introduction to the course module and its topics
03.09.2025 15.00 - 18.00 Online (Teams Meeting): Multi-professional collaboration and dialogue, dialogue on project ideas
17.09.2025 15.00 - 18.00 Online (Teams Meeting): Systems innovation and change 1
01.10.2025 15.00 - 18.00 Online (Teams Meeting): Systems innovation and change 2
08.10.2025 15.00 - 18.00 Online (Teams Meeting): Project presentations

Assessment methods and criteria

- Participation in online workshops 30%
- Active participation in collaborative project work 30%
- Personal learning diary 30%

Assessment scale

0-5

Teaching methods

- Participatory online workshops (incl. pre-assignments and reflection)
- Reading assignments
- Collaborative project work
- Project team coaching
- Learning diary

Learning materials

Uhl-Bien, M., & Arena, M. (2017). Complexity leadership: Enabling people and organizations for adaptability. Organizational Dynamics, 46(1), 9–20. https://andor.tuni.fi/permalink/358FIN_TAMPO/176jdvt/cdi_webofscience_primary_000397689100002CitationCount

van Dijk, H., Meyer, B., van Engen, M. L., & Loyd, D. L. (2017). Microdynamics in diverse teams: A review and integration of the diversity and stereotyping literatures. The Academy of Management Annals, 11(1), 517–557. https://andor.tuni.fi/permalink/358FIN_TAMPO/176jdvt/cdi_webofscience_primary_000402085000014CitationCount

Varney, S. (2021). Leadership in complexity and change: For a world in constant motion. Walter de Gruyter GmbH. https://andor.tuni.fi/permalink/358FIN_TAMPO/176jdvt/cdi_econis_primary_1751050025

Student workload

40 hrs Participatory online workshops (incl. pre-assignments and reflection)
25 hrs Reading assignments
45 hrs Collaborative project work
25 hrs Learning diary

TOTAL 135 hrs

Completion alternatives

Participation in online workshops and group project, and submitting the learning diary are mandatory.

Practical training and working life cooperation

There will be visitors from international working life organizations in online workshops.

International connections

International visitors, drawing from the experiences of diverse international group of participants.