PY3MPO-Motivation and Performance in Organisations

Module Provider: Psychology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Autumn 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: 2023/4

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.  

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.


•  to 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 information 

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.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Seminars	14		1
Guided independent study:	85
Total hours by term	99	0	1
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

A written report (100%)

Formative assessment methods:

Students have the opportunity to provide the module convenor with an essay plan for comment and feedback. In-class activities will provide students with opportunities for individual and group-level formative feedback, utilising lecturer led and peer feedback.  

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of at least 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:

A written report assessing the module’s learning outcomes.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 30 March 2023