A) Multiple Choice Questions: 1) a) b) c) d) e) (4 marks) Power can be defined as one of the following: The successful capacity and ability to influence the behavior of others Only the actualization of the dependency of others Congruence between the goals of the leader and those being led Downward influence on one’s followers Upward influence on one’s leaders. 2) Although the organizational politics vary within the organizational stage of development, politics does not often show up in: a) The introductory stage b) The growing stage c) The maturity stage d) The decline stage e) All stages 3) The tendency to underestimate the influence of external factors and overestimate the influence of internal of personal factors is: a. Attribution b. Self-serving bias c. Implementing the law of effect d. Fundamental attribution error e. Locus of control 4) The process by which people organize and translate their impressions in order to give meaning to their environment is a. Perception b. Adoption c. Prediction d. Satisfaction e. Controlling 5) If we want to explain, predict, and influence behavior, we need to understand how people… a. Act b. Speak c. Think d. Learn e. Judge 1 6) A process in which one party perceives that another party has taken or will take actions that are incompatible with one’s own interests is: a) Conflict b) Confusion c) Distrust d) Competition e) Pro social behavior 7) Social loafing is the tendency for individuals to expand: a) Less effort when working collectively than individually b) More effort when working collectively than individually c) The same effort when working collectively or individually d) No effort at all e) None of the above is a correct answer 8) Sally has not been handling one portion of her duties in a satisfactory manner. As a result, her supervisor threatens her to withhold her promotion. Which power tactic was being used? a) Exchange b) Ingratiation c) Pressure d) Personal appeals e) Inspirational appeals B) State whether the following statements are true or false: (6 marks) 1) Employees who are high self-monitors, possess an internal locus of control, and have a high need for power, are less likely to engage in political behavior. ( ) 2) Fairness and equity are always objective and cannot be residing in our perception. ( ) 3) Attribution theory assumes that none living objects are subjective to the law of nature as people are. ( ) 4) A problem is a discrepancy between a desirable/wanted situation and an actual/available situation. ( ) 5) Conflict within organizations is always destructive and results in negative consequences. ( ) 6) Decisions always involve problems but problem solving does not always involves making decisions. ( ) 7) Deviant workplace behavior is likely to occur when it is supported by group norms. 2 ( ) 8) Learning is any permanent change in behavior that occurs as a result of experience. ( ) 9) Managers often assume that employees share with them their perceptions toward the job performance. ( ) 10) Learning is built on the law of cause and effect which says that behavior is a function of its consequences. ( ) 11) Unlike bulling which is based on race or gender, sexual harassment is not strictly illegal unless it results in a real harm. ( ) 12) Political tactics and activities can help meeting organizational goals because they influence the outcomes. ( ) C) Answer ONLY TWO of the Following Questions Briefly: (8 marks) 1) A person can have power over you only if he or she controls something you desire. Explain the statement. Give an example (4 marks) 2) Identify certain personality traits, needs, and other organizational factors that are likely to be related to political behavior. (4 marks) 3) Some managers believe that political behaviors are necessary and those who do not use it will have hard time getting things done. Do you think politics must exist? If YES, what creates politics? If NO, when is it possible for an organization to be politics free? (4 marks) D) Experiential Question: (3 marks) ‘Conflict is an effective device by which managers can use to solve problems when it is perceived as a constructive approach’. Do you agree with this perspective? Why? Which of the conflict strategies is your strongest and which is your weakest? 3 D) Different Episodes Happen in All Organizations: (6 marks) Read the episodes below and answer the questions: Ahmad is frustrated by a co-worker who constantly spread bad and un-real rumors about him. Sara is tired of a member of her work team who, when confronted with a problem caused by him, takes his frustration by yelling and screaming at her and at other team members. Nadia has recently quit her job after being constantly sexually harassed by her supervisor. Fahad used to leave work early or intentionally work slowly to lie about the hours he works. 1. What do these employees have in common? What do you think constitute such environment and can encourage deviant norms? What are the consequences? 2. What can organizations do to protect itself against sexual harassment incidents? What is your role as a manager? 3. A recent study suggests that employees who work in a group are more likely to engage in deviant behaviors such as lie, cheat, or steal than those who work individually. What do you think? Support your answer. D) Activities (3 marks) Activity 1: Match each of the following distortion to its perceptual shortcut: a) Fail to take into consideration individual differences. b) Married employees are more stable than single ones. d) Speed read others which results in an un-accurate perspective of them. (2m) Hallo Effect Similarity Stereotyping Activity 2: Attribution theory provided explanations of how we judge people differently depending on what meaning we attribute to a given behavior. However, our judgement depends on the three factors. Match each one to what it refers to: (3m) a) Does the person respond the same way over time? Distinctiveness b) Whether the individual displays different behaviors in different situations. Consistency c) If everyone faced with a similar situation responds the same way. Consensus 4 5

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.