MSLV4101 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.

Language of instruction is Norwegian.

None.

After completing the course, the student should have the following overall learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

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

General 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 improve interaction processes from a leadership perspective

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

The following compulsory activity must have been approved in order for the student to take the exam:

• Compulsory activity: 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. This compulsory activity lets student train and observe communication in practice

Compulsory activities must be completed and approved by the given deadline in order for the student to take the exam. If absence exceeds 40%, the student will not be permitted to take the exam.

The exam in the course is an individual home exam over a period of three days (72 hours). The exam paper must have a scope of 8-10 pages. Font and font size: Arial/Calibri 12 points. Line spacing: 1.5.

All aids are permitted, as long as the rules for source referencing are complied with.

Grade scale A-F

The exam papers are assessed by one internal and one external examiner.

At least 25% of the exam papers will be assessed by two examiners. The grades awarded for the papers assessed by two examiners form the basis for determining the level for all the exam papers.

Hilde Mobekk