MSLV4100 Communication for leaders Course description

The course introduces the students to different theoretical perspectives on communication and principles for succeeding in interpersonal communication and interaction. The students will also complete practical exercises intended to increase their understanding of the meaning of good communication, and what is required to resolve conflicts and negotiate in an expedient manner. Students will become familiar with the principles of good and effective interaction and communication, and negotiation and conflict management. They will also gain knowledge about the challenges that often occur in communication processes and how these can be dealt with.

None

Knowledge

The student has

• in-depth knowledge of communication theory and different aspects of interpersonal communication and interaction

• insight into the dynamics of interpersonal interaction

• in-depth knowledge of theory, techniques and procedures for preventing and resolving conflicts

• insight into theory and key principles for conducting negotiations in an expedient manner

• insight into the preconditions for building good relations through dialogue

Skills

The student is capable of

• describing basic theories on interpersonal communication and interaction

• analysing interaction processes, recognising communication differences and using relevant strategies, methods and techniques to achieve effective communication and resolve conflicts

• analysing negotiation processes and suggesting solution-oriented strategies in such processes

Competence

The student is capable of

• applying his/her knowledge and skills to new fields to carry out advanced tasks and projects in management

• communicating with both specialists in the field and the general public about relevant issues, analyses and conclusions relating to management

• applying knowledge and skills to prepare interaction processes from a leadership perspective

Different teaching methods are used in this course. Teaching will therefore vary between lectures, and exercises and reflection in small groups

Skills training is part of the course. The minimum attendance requirement for teaching activities is therefore 80%. In the event of absence above 20%, the student must submit an alternative piece of coursework in the form of a written memo of 2-4 pages. If the alternative coursework requirement submitted is unsatisfactory, an improved version must be submitted within a deadline stipulated by the lecturer. The required coursework must be approved before the student can take the exam. If absence exceeds 40%, the student will not be permitted to take the exam.

The students will take a written individual home exam over two days with a scope of 10 pages (+/- 10 %).

A grade scale with grades from A to E for pass and F for fail is used.

One internal and one external examiner are used. External examiners are otherwise used in cases of doubt about whether a pass grade should be awarded and for grading a random sample of approx. 25% of answer papers that will form the basis for the grading of all the exam papers.