Introductory description

This is an elective module available for WBS and non-WBS students.

The principal module aims are:

1. To developing students’ understanding of the principles underlying leadership in
   government, industry, and society.
2. Review of research on leadership and management, examining topics such as
   leadership skills, leading changes in organizations, leader-follower relationships, and
   leadership tactics.
3. To encourage students to take the theoretical aspects of leadership and relate them to
   real situations.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

This is an upper level management course intended to provide students with an understanding of the principles underlying leadership in government, industry, and society. The course will review research on leadership and management, examining topics such as leadership skills, leading changes in organizations, leader-follower relationships, and leadership tactics. This course will take the theoretical aspects of leadership and relate them to real situations. Students will participate in various exercises to analyze leadership strategies and assess leadership strengths and weaknesses.

• Approaches to leadership research (trait-based, skill based, relationship-based, etc.)
• Dyadic Relations and Followership
• Outstanding Leadership Theories
• Transactional and Transformational Leadership
• Leadership and Ethics
• Leading for Innovation
• Implicit Leadership Theories
• Contingency Theories
• Gender and Leadership

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Identify and critique leadership styles based on various theories discussed.
• Understand the strengths and weaknesses of various leadership styles based on context.
• Understand what makes a good or bad/effective or ineffective leader.
• Understand leader-follower relationships.
• Identify causes of dysfunctional leadership and propose strategies for change.
• Apply imagination, inventiveness and critical thinking to the module content.
• Develop critical reflexivity towards the module content and examples of practice.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Subject specific skills

Appreciate the complex nature of leadership research.
Develop an understanding of the influence of contextual variables when studying leadership.
Explain and apply their knowledge and understanding of key leadership theories to their own experiences.

Transferable skills

Written and verbal communication skills.
Analytical skills.
Research skills.
Time management skills.
Critical thinking skills.