Ateneo - UPO

The course introduces participants to fundamental theories from the field of Organisational Studies that can provide conceptual support and valuable insights for disaster management. The following topics will be covered:
Introduction to the concept of organisation
Organisational design
Organisational behaviour
Socio-technical systems theory

Daft, R. L. (2020). Organization Theory & Design (13ª ed.). Cengage Learning.

The course aims to provide participants with both theoretical knowledge, through lectures, and practical skills, by means of case study discussions and experiential activities.

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The course combines lectures for the acquisition of theoretical knowledge with case study discussions and experiential activities aimed at developing practical skills.

Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli Studenti, consulting the University webpage: https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services-students-physical-or-learning-disabilities Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.

The exam is written and in-person, and consists of a quiz with multiple-choice questions. The final grade is expressed in thirtieths, and to pass the exam, a student must achieve at least 18/30. To pass the exam, students must demonstrate knowledge and understanding of at least the fundamental concepts of the subject. To achieve a passing grade, students must be familiar with the context of business organization and be able to demonstrate the acquisition of the relevant basic notions treated during classes. To achieve a high grade, students must demonstrate complete mastery of the topics covered.

The course has a total duration of 8 hours, structured to balance theoretical and practical activities. Specifically:
25% (2 hours): lectures introducing the main concepts of organisation, organisational design, organisational behaviour, and socio-technical systems theory.
25% (2 hours): individual and group e-tivities aimed at deepening the covered topics and fostering critical reflection.
50% (4 hours): synchronous activities devoted to case study discussions and practical simulations of disaster management scenarios.

Knowledge: gain an understanding of the main concepts and theories of organisational studies, with specific focus on organisational design, organisational behaviour, and socio-technical systems theory, applied to disaster management contexts.
Skills: develop the ability to analyse and interpret complex disaster management scenarios using organisational tools and models; apply the discussed theories to evaluate effective organisational solutions; collaborate effectively in synchronous case discussions and simulations.
Transversal abilities: strengthen critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative management of complex situations; enhance communication and teamwork skills in multicultural and multidisciplinary contexts.