What’s it about?

In this course, you will begin your exploration of the various functions of management by first learning that management involves not only coordination, but also planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. You will then turn your attention to the exploration of various theories of management throughout history, paying close attention to Frederick Winslow Taylor's scientific management theory as well as more contemporary, 21st-century approaches to management, which have evolved to deal with the complexities of "knowledge based" work.

You will close your look at the historical development of management by beginning to situate current management practices in a global setting. Finally you will conclude with an exploration of business ethics in the modern-day workplace environment; an organization and its managers have duties - including legal and ethical responsibilities - that they must uphold as part of their service to their stakeholders, including investors, vendors, employees, and the communities in which the organization operates. 

What will I learn?

In this course, you will learn to:

• define the functions of managers as well as analyzing the purpose of management.
• describe the history of management theory to show how current theories have developed.
• demonstrate an understanding of globalization on management, as well as analyze it's impact.
• demonstrate an understanding and be able to analyze the challenges of growing a business in the global environment.
• demonstrate an understanding of the role that cultural factors play in the workplace, as well as examine how diversity can enhance the work enviroment.
• describe and apply the essential concepts of ethical practices in business. 

What’s involved?

Participants will join an international community of learners interested in gaining understanding and mastery of the fundamentals of the Principles of management. Largely self-directed and self-paced, the course will, if learners wish, lead to credits from an affiliated institution.

The course will be offered as a micro open online course comprising a number of learning activities and resources. It is to be viewed as part of a larger Principles of management course of study, coupled with PMAN102 and 103. 

Prerequisites?

Anyone is free to participate in this course. An internet connection and basic web browsing skills are recommended with the ability to self motivate and direct.

Learners preparing for formal academic credit will need to meet the normal admission requirements of the conferring institution.

Assessment options for formal credit

To be posted soon.

Image credit: Lamp, idea and gear by geralt dedicated to the public domain.