Perspectives on Leadership (5cr)

Objectives (course unit)

After completing the course, the student is able to understand theoretical and critical perspectives on leadership and the contextuality of leadership. Additionally, the student reflects on their own leadership by applying leadership research.

Content (course unit)

Key Themes Theoretical perspectives on leadership Critical perspective on leadership Leadership contextuality The human concept in management Self-awareness, agency, and self-leadership

Prerequisites (course unit)

This course unit is part of the master's degree curriculum. Completion of the course requires master's study entitlement. This course unit is part of the master's degree's curriculum. Completion of the course requires master's study entitlement.

Exam schedules

The course includes one multiple-choice exam, which can be retaken during the course.

Assessment scale

H-5

Teaching methods

This is a virtual course where students complete individual assignments based on provided materials and participate in one group discussion task with other students. Course tasks are divided into two levels: basic and advanced. Students may choose to complete only the basic level, which includes three assignments and a multiple-choice exam required to pass the course. These tasks can earn a maximum grade of 3. If the points from the basic level are insufficient for a passing grade or if the student wishes to learn more and achieve a higher grade, they can complete two additional advanced-level tasks. Instructors are available throughout the course via Moodle discussion forums. Key Themes • Theoretical perspectives on leadership • Critical perspectives on leadership • Contextual nature of leadership • Human understanding in leadership • Self-awareness, agency, and self-leadership

Learning materials

Required materials: • Dugan, J. (2017/2024). Leadership Theory: Cultivating Critical Perspectives. Jossey-Bass. • Mandatory materials shared via Moodle (articles, podcasts, videos). Languages: Materials are available in both Finnish and English. Advanced Level: Students are expected to find additional high-quality articles on leadership.

Student workload

Basic Level 1. Self-leadership – Individual Assignment (Pass/Fail) 2. Leadership Theories – Multiple Choice Exam (Max 20 points) 3. My Leadership Potential – Individual Assignment including Interviews (Max 25 points) 4. Leadership Contexts – Discussion Task in Moodle (Max 25 points) Advanced Level 5. Optional Assignment (Max 25 points) a. Good Leadership – Individual Assignment b. Leadership Behaviour – Individual Assignment 6. Agency – Individual Assignment (Max 5 points)

Content scheduling

Student's own pace within the course duration. Key Themes • Theoretical perspectives on leadership • Critical perspectives on leadership • Contextual nature of leadership • Human understanding in leadership • Self-awareness, agency, and self-leadership

Completion alternatives

If a student has prior theoretical and practical knowledge, they may propose a demonstration of competence (AHOT). Instructions: Haaga-Helia AHOT • Format of demonstration: multiple-choice exam and video lecture

Practical training and working life cooperation

The course is based on work-life competencies of individuals and their development. Students utilise their own work-life experiences in leadership-related learning tasks.

International connections

Course materials include both domestic and international sources.

Further information

Final grade is based on the total points from assignments (scale 0–100): • Under 50 points = Fail • 50–59 points = Grade 1 • 60–69 points = Grade 2 • 70–79 points = Grade 3 • 80–89 points = Grade 4 • 90–100 points = Grade 5 Assessment Criteria Grade 1: The student’s competence meets the course objectives at a minimal level. They recognise some theories, perspectives, and concepts covered in the course and apply them narrowly to practical work-life situations. Grade 3: The student’s competence meets the course objectives well. They have a good grasp of the theories, perspectives, and concepts covered and apply them effectively to analyse practical work-life situations. Grade 5: The student’s competence meets the course objectives excellently. They have a deep understanding of the theories, perspectives, and concepts covered and apply them critically and justifiably to analyse and solve practical work-life situations.