Assignment 1: Organizational Culture Analysis
Length: 2-3 pages, no more than 4
Symbols of culture are called artifacts. Artifacts are the most visible and accessible level of culture. These include behaviors, stories, rituals (everyday practices that are repeated frequently), and symbols (e.g., company logos, company colors). For example, the president of a company volunteering at Habitat for Humanity is an artifact of culture. An example of symbols as an artifact of culture is University's shield that serves as our logo and is printed on transcripts, diplomas and letterhead paper. Submit a two- to three-page paper (excluding the title and reference pages) describing the culture of either your current or past place of employment.
Your paper should provide examples of and address each of the following topics:
1. Observable artifacts
2. Espoused values (These are what organizational members say they value, like ethical practice.)
3. Enacted values (These are reflected in the way individuals actually behave.)
In addition, describe how each item listed above impacts the values and culture of the organization.
Your paper must use a minimum of two scholarly sources, in addition to the textbook. Your paper must also follow the APA Style guide.
Assignment 2: HR Performance Issues and Motivation
The relationship between the organization and its members can be greatly influenced by what motivates individuals to work. The style of leadership, job design, resources on the job, and environment can all have a significant effect on the satisfaction of employees and their performance. Performance is also influenced by individual motivations (e.g., social, recognition, financial reward, personal growth and development, and/or intrinsic satisfaction) and can equally impact the organization. There are many theories that attempt to explain the nature of motivation. Write a four- to five-page paper (excluding the title and reference pages) evaluating the relationship between motivation, job satisfaction, and work performance. Be sure to address the following:
1. Describe a performance issue which resulted from a motivational problem (what, why, who).
2. Use a content theory of motivation (e.g., Maslow, Alderfer, Herzberg, or McClelland) or a process theory (i.e., Adams, Locke, or Heider and Kelley) to explain how the issue creates a performance problem for the organization.
3. Use the theory of motivation you selected to describe an intervention/action to change the motivation/behavior and correct the performance problem.
Your paper must use a minimum of three scholarly sources, in addition to the textbook. Your paper must be formatted according to APA style.