Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2013-2014 (archived)

Module BUSI44315: APPROACHES TO DECISION MAKING (PT/EXECUTIVE)

Department: Business School (Business)

BUSI44315: APPROACHES TO DECISION MAKING (PT/EXECUTIVE)

Type Tied Level 4 Credits 15 Availability Available in 2013/14 Module Cap
Tied to NPK017
Tied to N1KP17
Tied to N1KD17
Tied to N1KB17

Prerequisites

  • None.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To provide an advanced understanding of the ways in which decision making frameworks may help in making sense of the complex world in which managers manage.

Content

  • Optimisation: using linear programming to find best solutions.
  • Multi-attribute problems: how to trade off different sorts of outcomes.
  • Risky decisions: how to cope with uncertainty.
  • Subjectivity and bias: why we need help in making rational decisions.
  • Competition and cooperation: the application of game theory.
  • Problem structuring: describing complexity using soft systems and pattern languages.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Upon successful completion of the module, the students will:
  • have an in-depth understanding of the contribution that analytical decision methods (mainly, but not only, quantitative) can make to the solution of decision problems in business;
  • have a critical appreciation of how to structure complex problems.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Upon successful completion of the module, the students will:
  • be able to formulate and solve models to assist management decision making.
Key Skills:
  • Written communication; planning, organising and time management; problem solving and analysis; using initiative; computer literacy.

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 lectures, groupwork, case studies and discussion, supported by guided reading. The written assignment will test students' understanding of relevant concepts and their ability to apply and interpret what they have learned to the analysis of a particular issue in depth.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Workshops (a combination of lectures, groupwork, case studies and discussion) 28
Preparation and Reading 122
Total 150

Summative Assessment

Component: Written Assignment Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written Assignment 4,000 words maximum 100%

Formative Assessment:

None.


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