Master of Arts in Organizational Psychology PROGRAM (MA)

Course Descriptions

PA 650—Assessment, Intervention, and Evaluation in Organizational Development

3 Credits

This course covers they key steps in organizational intervention from the entry and contracting process, through the assessment and discovery phases, onto effective feedback techniques. Determining client needs requires a number of different tools and skills. Among the most critical key initial steps involves building a work relationship with a client, determining the initial scope of work, and establishing key boundaries. We cover a range of diagnostic methodologies including interviews, questionnaires, organizational surveys, observation, organizational records, appreciative inquiry, and large group approaches. We discuss appropriate roles for clients and consultants in the data gathering and analysis process. This includes the challenges and ethical issues that can arise and approaches to effectively address. Learning methods include the use of simulations to practice the art and skill of entering a system, of collecting useful information and helping clients to understand, and of making appropriate and effective use of that information.

Updated 5/20/08