Module BUSI46N15: Scenario Thinking (Blended Learning)

Department: Business School (Business)

BUSI46N15: Scenario Thinking (Blended Learning)

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• Scenario Thinking (Block Taught)

Aims

• To explore methods and approaches for anticipating the future
• To understand and evaluate how human judgment is modelled in scenario method
• To examine the strategic and operational implications of planning with scenarios

Content

• The core “intuitive logics” scenario methodology
• Modelling judgment: overcoming framing bias and overconfidence
• Stakeholder analysis
• Evaluating the performance of options against scenarios
• Constructing a range of extreme futures
• Diagnosing whether the organizational context is appropriate for a scenario-based intervention
• Evaluating developed scenarios
• Scenario thinking versus decision analysis as ways of making decisions in the face of uncertainty about the future

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the module, students should have:
• A critical understanding of the nature and principal concepts of scenario method
• A grounded understanding of the “intuitive logics” scenario method and its augmentations.
• A critical appreciation of decision making using scenarios

• By the end of the module, students should:
• Be able to use the “intuitive logics” method to create scenarios
• Be able to develop a range of more extreme scenarios using augmentation of the core “intuitive logics” method
• Be able to analyse and evaluate decision options against scenarios

• Effective written communication skills
• Planning, organising and time management skills
• Problem solving and analytical skills
• The ability to use initiative
• Advanced skills in the interpretation of data
• Advanced computer literacy skills

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Learning outcomes will be met through a combination of specially-produced study resources, directed reading, reflection through self-assessed assignments and guidance for further reading. Module tutors provide feedback on formative work and are available for individual consultation as necessary (by email, telephone, post and video-conferencing).
• The summative assessment of the module, by case-study based written assignment, is designed to test the acquisition and application of knowledge and critical understanding, and skills of application and interpretation within the business context.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Virtual team-based discussions and case study exercises, delivered via DUO.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University