Communication in Management

The course proposes a critical reflection on the concept of management and specifically on the role of communication in business management (e.g. by opposing a functionalist view to a perspective of communication as constitutive of organisational processes). 

Starting from the empirical studies conducted by Mintzberg, managerial work is described as an activity performing at three fundamental levels: information, people, actions. These three levels will be interpreted in the light of current managerial theories and approaches in order to develop a more articulated understanding of the roles of communication in management. At the level of action, the role of communication in both coordination and innovation is examined. At the level of people, a reflection on the role of communication in conflict management is proposed. At the level of information, lastly, an analysis of how discourse influences and shapes action in business is offered.

In summary, the course will compare classical managerial frameworks with more communication-centered approaches, thus fostering a communicative reinterpretation of issues central to management.

The aim of the course is to introduce participants to management issues and to explore their communication dimension. The course aims to promote a continuous dialogue between theory and practice for students to appreciate the practical value of specific management frameworks and approaches.

In presence

The course foresees - in the spirit of the seminar - the active collaboration of students, in-class discussion of scientific articles, and dialogue with management practice. Students will have the opportunity not only to apply theoretical models and concepts to practical case studies, but also to observe management practice first-hand. In fact, the course includes a field observation project, during which students will interview and observe managers in their daily practice and critically reflect on these insights through the concepts and frameworks learned in class and through academic readings. This approach is intended to provide a more concrete and practical understanding of the value of communicative approaches to management.

Two elements will be taken into account in the course evaluation:

• The final written examination (70%);
• The group presentation from the in-company observations and classroom participation (30%).

In order to pass the course, it is necessary to pass the written exam