Newcastle University

Aims

This course aims to build on the second year introductory course (BUS2017). To introduce students to concepts of creativity and its role in the innovation process. To provide students with an understanding and awareness of the role of management in fostering creativity and innovation in the workplace. To introduce concepts relating to the wider process of innovation through notions of social shaping, complex projects, creativity, and actor networks. To provide students with a basis for critical judgement with regard to the strategies and processes of innovation and creativity management in an organizational context.

Original Summary:
This module builds upon the foundations of a basic understanding of the nature of innovation and its management to consider advanced topics in the management of innovation and creativity from the perspective of business and other types of organization. In particular, the module seeks to develop an understanding of current theoretical thinking that goes beyond conventional rationalistic managerial theory through a consideration of wider societal issues in the study of innovation. The module also focuses on the role and importance of creativity and design in the innovation process and how this can be harnessed for competitive advantage.

Outline Of Syllabus

1. Introduction to the course - a recap of innovation. Theoretical precursors. 2. The Rational Managerialist approach. 3. Evolutionary theory. 4. The social shaping of technology. 5. Reflexivity and Actor Network Theory. Aspects of creativity. 6. Creativity at the individual level. 7. Creativity within teams or groups. 8. Creativity at an organisational level. 9. 'Creative' versus 'suits': the management of creativity. Radical innovation and resistance. 10. Radical innovation and disruption. 11. Engaging in radical innovation. 12. Overcoming resistance to changes. Design and the design process. 13. The role of design in the innovation process. 14. Managing the design process. Users in the innovation process. 15. Architects and users. 16. Configuring the user? Innovation in major projects. 17. Innovating in major projects. 18. Innovation in construction. Ethical issues. 19. Technology failure. 20. Ethics of innovation and creativity.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lectures introduce the students to the main theoretical ideas and processes of management of innovation and creativity in different contexts. Students will be introduced to some of the key debates and controversies in the subject area. Critical approaches to the literature will be demonstrated through the lectures.

The seminars will permit more detailed discussion of specific issues and case examples.

The group assignment enables group learning, shared discussion and assessment of different theoretical perspectives in the context of a radically new innovation.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The exam will test students knowledge of the subject, and their ability critically to assess competing theories and perspectives. Questions invite critical analysis of key issues in innovation and creativity management.

The group assignment will test students ability to relate ideas and apply different theoretical perspectives in order to interpret possible outcomes relating to a real-life example of a radical or emergent innovation/technology.