Organizational Behavior Research Insight

The purpose of this assignment is to enhance your understanding of organizational behavior concepts and theories through conducting scholarly research using library databases and presenting your findings in a creative and engaging format. You have the option to choose between three formats: a research insight paper, an infographic, or a presentation. Whichever format you choose, your work should demonstrate your ability to critically analyze and synthesize relevant research to provide insights into organizational behavior phenomena.

A research insight refers to a valuable and significant understanding gained from analyzing and interpreting research findings. It represents a deeper level of comprehension and perspective that goes beyond the surface-level information provided by the research. Research insights are derived by critically examining the data, identifying patterns or relationships, and drawing meaningful conclusions from the findings.

In the context of organizational behavior, research insights provide a deeper understanding of how individuals, groups, and organizations function, interact, and behave in the workplace. These insights help us comprehend the underlying factors, dynamics, and mechanisms that influence behaviors, attitudes, and outcomes within an organizational setting. Several examples of organizational behavior research insights are provided below. You may explore one of these insights and delve into research to get started, or you may use another topic related to organizational behavior to begin searching for research insights. (Hint: the table of contents of your textbook is an effective place to begin your search for topic ideas). To gather scholarly sources, use the “Find Articles” tab of the MSA 601 Library Guide to begin your research.

Examples of Organizational Behavior Research Insights

• Organizational Culture and Employee Behavior: Studies have revealed that the organizational culture significantly influences employee behavior, attitudes, and decision-making. A positive culture that promotes openness, collaboration, and adaptability tends to result in higher employee engagement and improved organizational outcomes.
• Work-Life Balance: Research on work-life balance has highlighted its importance in promoting employee well-being, job satisfaction, and productivity. Organizations that offer flexible work arrangements and support employees’ personal lives tend to experience reduced turnover and increased employee loyalty.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Scholars have examined the impact of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It has been found that diverse teams, when managed effectively, can lead to greater creativity, innovation, and problem-solving abilities, ultimately benefiting the organization.
• Employee Engagement: Studies on employee engagement have shown that engaged employees are more committed to their work, have higher levels of job satisfaction, and are more likely to stay with the organization. Strategies that enhance employee engagement can have a positive impact on organizational performance.
• Decision-Making Processes: Research has explored decision-making processes within organizations, such as how individuals and groups make choices and the factors that influence their decisions. Understanding decision-making can help organizations improve their processes and avoid biases that may hinder effective decision-making.
• Organizational Change: Insights into organizational change have revealed resistance to change is common among employees. Understanding the sources of resistance and effective strategies for managing it can help organizations navigate the challenges associated with change initiatives.
• Employee Motivation: Numerous studies have explored different theories of employee motivation and how organizations can design incentive systems and recognition programs to enhance employee motivation and performance.
• Job Design and Job Satisfaction: Research has investigated the relationship between job design and job satisfaction. Jobs that are enriched, providing employees with autonomy and opportunities for skill development, are often associated with higher levels of job satisfaction.

When conducting research, you collect data and analyze it to answer research questions or test hypotheses. However, research insights go beyond the mere presentation of data or descriptive summaries. They involve synthesizing the research findings, identifying connections between different studies, and uncovering overarching themes or trends. Research insights help bridge the gap between theory and practice by providing actionable knowledge and understanding that can be applied in real-world organizational contexts.

In the context of your assignment, your objective is to uncover research insights related to a specific organizational behavior topic of your choice. This involves critically analyzing relevant research articles, identifying key patterns or themes, and drawing meaningful conclusions from the findings. By generating research insights, you will contribute to the existing body of knowledge in organizational behavior and gain a deeper appreciation for the practical implications of the research findings.

Remember, research insights should be supported by evidence from the literature and offer novel perspectives or implications. They can shape our understanding of organizational behavior phenomena, inform managerial decisions, and contribute to the development of effective practices and strategies in organizations.

Course Learning Outcomes

• Identify, examine, and present insights related to various organizational theories and concepts, including DEI, ethical decision-making, problem-solving, motivation, leadership, team building, goal setting, conflict management, effective communication, and organizational change.

You will also be able to:

• Apply critical thinking skills to analyze and synthesize research findings related to a specific organizational behavior topic.
• Develop effective communication skills through the chosen format (research insight paper, infographic, or presentation) to present complex information in a clear and concise manner.
• Utilize effective information literacy skills by effectively locating, evaluating, and integrating scholarly sources into your work.
• Enhance visual design skills (for infographic or presentation formats) to effectively communicate information and engage the audience.
• Demonstrate proficiency in using APA citation style (for research insight papers and reference sections) to accurately reference and cite sources.

Instructions

Choose a specific topic within the field of organizational behavior that interests you. It can be related to leadership, teamwork, motivation, communication, organizational culture, diversity, decision-making, or any other relevant area. Gather scholarly sources using library databases to locate an annotate relevant scholarly articles related to your topic. Select a compelling finding from your research to present in your paper, presentation, or infographic. See the specific guidelines for each format below:

[Option A] Research Insight Paper:

• Length: 2-3 pages (excluding references and appendices)
• Format: Typed, double-spaced, 12-point font (APA style)
• Introduction (briefly explain the topic)
• Objectives and significance
• Key concepts and theories
• Research findings and analysis (support with visuals and examples)
• Implications and practical recommendations
• Conclusion
• References (APA style)

[Option B] Infographic:

• Format: Visual design software such as Adobe InDesign (all CMU students have access), Canva, or Piktochart.
• Structure:
• Title/Introduction (briefly explain the topic)
• Key concepts and theories (concise and visually appealing)
• Research findings and analysis (use graphs, charts, and visuals)
• Implications and practical recommendations
• References (APA style)

[Option C] Presentation:

• Length: 3-5 minutes
• Format: PowerPoint or other presentation software.
• Structure:
• Title slide
• Introduction (briefly explain the topic)
• Objectives and significance
• Key concepts and theories
• Research findings and analysis (support with visuals and examples)
• Implications and practical recommendations
• Conclusion
• References (APA style)

Overall Requirements & Submission

Research Requirements:

1. Utilize a minimum of 4 scholarly sources. In addition to including source material from at least four scholarly sources, you may choose to include material from additional types of sources, such as books, mainstream articles, podcasts, etc. Use the “Find Articles” tab of the MSA 601 Library Guide to begin your research.
2. Diverse sources are encouraged (e.g., empirical studies, case studies, meta-analyses).
3. Ensure that the research you choose is current and relevant (preferably published within the last five years).

Analysis and Insight:

Regardless of the chosen format, your assignment should creatively and compellingly include content and visual appeal. Your assignment should include the following sections:

1. Critical analysis and synthesis of the selected research.
2. Identification of key patterns, trends, or themes emerging from the literature.
3. Insights into how the research findings contribute to our understanding of organizational behavior.
4. Discussion of the implications and practical applications of the research for organizations.

For the infographic or presentation formats, pay attention to visual design and layout. Use appropriate visuals, colors, and fonts to enhance the clarity and appeal of your work. Ensure that your work is well-organized and visually engaging to capture the attention of your audience.

Deadline: Save your work as commonly accessible format according to the option you chose. Submit your work via the title link by the end of Week 2.

Grading Rubric: For detailed grading criteria, see the attached rubric.

• Depth of research and incorporation of relevant literature.
• Critical analysis and synthesis of research findings.
• Clarity, coherence, and organization of ideas.
• Insightfulness and compelling presentation of information