PY3MPO-Motivation and Performance in Organisations

Module Provider: Psychology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites: PY2RM Research Methods and Data Analysis or PY2RMP Research methods in Psychology or PY2APY Advanced Psychology
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Amanda Branson
Email: A.Branson@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module aims to give students understanding of the concepts and approaches used in the measurement of motivation and performance in work settings. We will explore major theories of motivation, as well as policies and practices designed to affect motivation and performance at work.ÌýÌý

Aims:

The aims of this module are:

• to give students an understanding of the concepts and approaches used in the measurement of motivation and performance in work settings;


• to explore major theories of motivation as well as policies and practices designed to affect motivation and performance at work.


• Ìýto develop an understanding of the complex relationship between motivation and performance in the workplace.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module students will be able to
1.Appraise key theoretical explanations for motivation at work, with critical reference to the literature
2. Critically evaluate factors affecting motivation and performance in the workplace

Additional outcomes:

1. Analytical skills: sourcing relevant information, evaluating, critiquing, decision making, problem solving


2. Communication skills: verbal and written


3. Organisational skills: planning, prioritising, storing & using informationÌý

Outline content:

This module comprises seven two-hour seminars. The module will introduce you to different theories explaining factors that drive individuals to behave in certain ways at work and what stimulates and maintains such behaviours. The module starts with a general overview of the concepts of motivation at work, performance and the relationship between these variables, and goes on to critically examine well-established motivation theories and issues faced in the measurement of both motivation and performance. Evidence about some key policies and practices designed to enhance motivation and performance, such as the role of job design and pay will be explored.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module will use a combination of lectures, interactive activities, and both small and large group discussion to explore motivation and performance within the context of work. A team based learning approach will be applied at intervals across the course, requiring students to undertake reading in advance of the seminar, and engagement with team-based discussion and problem solving activities.