Aims

This module is designed to enable students to apply general management theories and concepts to realistic business situations through the medium of a business simulation (business game) in semester 1 and Case Study analyses in semester 2.

In semester 1 student’s will “experience” all aspects of running a business through the business simulation and will be encouraged to develop an understanding and appreciation of the relationships between operational areas of a business which are traditionally separated.

In semester 2 case studies will provide a student centred small group learning environment to enable students to explore key areas of management through discussion and analysis of case studies.

Outline Of Syllabus

The introductory lecture will explain the aims and structure of the module and highlight some of the practical logistical issues involved. The business simulation exercise is not designed to “teach” but, rather, to encourage students to consider the application of general management theories and concepts.

Students will then be allocated to small seminar groups (15 students maximum) and the cases studied will cover different topics related to general management issues; the focus will be on solving problems that contemporary organisations face.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The introductory lecture will explain the aims and structure of the module. The simulation and seminars will provide a forum for detailed analysis of “real life” cases. This format will enable students to develop, in particular, their problem solving and decision making skills and encourage them to consider the interconnectivity of business functions. The rationale is, therefore, directly related to the module’s intended learning outcomes.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

These assessment methods have proved to be particularly effective in engaging students to discuss how general management theories and concepts can be applied to “real life” business situations and to consider the interconnectivity of different business functions. The group work element also provides a mechanism for students to experience the realities of group work, time management, negotiation and problem solving, etc. in a simulated business environment. The assessment methods are, therefore, directly related to the module’s intended learning outcomes.

The business simulation is delivered over one weekend early in semester 1, the assignment is based on their learning from the simulation and relating this to the graduate skills framework.

In order to ensure that students are aware of the importance of full participation in the business simulation, attendance is compulsory. Any students who fails to attend, would receive a mark of 0% (unless taking an alternative assessment is approved by the PEC Committee). Therefore any student with PEC support will be able to undertake an alternative arrangement.