Class Organizational Communication Methods and Techniques

Communication is constitutive of organisations. As communication is a strategic resource in Human Resources Management (HRM), this course aims to develop knowledge in the field of Organisational Communication and promotes its critical application in real organisational contexts. 
The Curricular Unit covers contemporary concepts and themes in organisational communication, at micro, meso and macro levels, which allow for a broad analysis of the complexity of communication processes. The course presents communication methods and techniques that are relevant to HRM practice in the organisational context, as well as to students' personal development, strengthening the exercise of active citizenship. 
By developing students' communication knowledge, skills and abilities, their capacity to act in organisations and society is enhanced, particularly regarding the challenges of the transition to a green society.

1. Introduction to Organisational Communication
1.1 The concept of communication 
1.2 Communication at the heart of organisations 
1.3 The importance of communication in Human Resources Management (HRM)
1.4 Contemporary issues in organisational communication (AI, Green HRM, Interculturality) 
 
2. Communication models and processes
2.1.  The elements of the communication process
2.1.1 Verbal and non-verbal communication
2.2 Barriers to communication
2.3 Linear and circular theoretical communication models

3. Contexts of communication 
3.1 Interpersonal communication and communication skills
3.2 Group communication
3.3 Organisational communication 

4. Evaluating communication effectiveness
4.1 Methods and techniques for assessing communication effectiveness in organisations
4.2 Preparing and conducting interviews
 

The teaching-learning methodology includes lectures and participatory methodologies, bringing students closer to society, companies and institutions. 
This methodology includes theoretical-practical classes, lectures, and debate, complemented by practical cases and exercises. Students are encouraged to apply the theoretical content to their own experiences.
The course has already established an assessment process that puts students in direct dialogue with organisations, through the completion of an innovative group assignment, which aims to characterise the communication practices of an organisation, contacted by the students themselves, with which research practices on the communication of issues associated with sustainability and the organisational green transition continue.  Preparation for the group work includes research and reading of scientific publications, and training in preparing and conducting interviews.

Neves, J. G., Garrido, M. & Simões, E. (2019). Manual de Competências Pessoais, Interpessoais e Instrumentais (4ª ed). Lisboa: Sílabo

Rego, A. (2022). Comunicação Pessoal e Organizacional (5a ed). Sílabo.

Robbins, S. P. & Judge, T. A. (2019). Communication. In idem, Organizational Behavior (18ª ed., chapter 11). Pearson 

Ruão, T. (2016). A organização comunicativa: Teoria e Prática da Comunicação Organizacional. CECS-Centro de Estudos de Comunicação e Sociedade [Disponível online: http://repositorium.sdum.uminho.pt/handle/1822/41119]

Ruão, T., Marinho, S., & Silva, S. (2022). Internal Communication in Contemporary Organizations: Digital Challenge in a Project Management Department. In J. G. Andrade & T. Ruão (Eds.), Navigating Digital Communication and Challenges for Organizations (pp. 1–19). IGI Global.