Organizational Networks

Aims of the course

The overall objective of the course is to:
- get students acquainted with the basic intra- and inter-organizational network characteristics
- present the most important social network theories and concepts in realtion to organizations
- demonstrate applicability of network theories and concept when dealing with content issues organizations face
- encourage use of network perspectives and concepts in business practice
- familiarize students with social network analysis basics

Course specific competences:
- ability to recognize and evaluate formal and informal organizational networks
- ability to use organizational network analysis tools
- sense for systematic understanding of social structure within organizations
- ability to act as agent when chainging organizational networks in productive and ethical purposes
- ability to think relational

Course syllabus

During this course, students will become acquainted with the following topics:
1) Definition of intra- and inter-organizational networks
2) basic concepts and theories of organizational networks
a. Characteristics of organizational networks (actors, diads, triads, networks)
b. Complete and personal (ego) networks
c. Strong and weak ties, structural holes
d. Multiplexity
e. Small worlds
f. Balance theory, social comparison theory
3) Basics of organizational network analysis and applications of tools
4) Studying selected networks within organizations
a. Work collaboration networks
b. Knowledge and learning networks
c. Idea flow and creativity networks
d. Career development and success networks
g. Hindrance and gossip networks
5) Analysis of chosen inter-organizational networks
a. Innovation and development networks
b. Financial and other corporate networks

Course director(s)

No description

 
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