We have completed our #RRUMALAT online debate. That experience has highlighted weaknesses with my academic writing. As a result, I am researching more information and I have made appointments with RRU’s Writing Centre. I am looking forward to those sessions. I did enjoy the process, getting to know team members and doing the research required to support our arguments. Here is Scrum Post 1 Pro – The Motion.
Scrum PRO – Organisational Structures vs Managing
There may be an inclination to blend organisational structures and managing digital learning environments (DLE). By using the words interchangeably, one becomes ambivalent instead of making the effort to fully understand the two elements.
The organisational structure of DLEs and managing DLEs run parallel to one another; both are equal unto themselves. Structures follow modalities. “Structure refers to the relations between the components of an organised whole. Thus, the structure concept can be used for everything” (Ahmadya, et., al., 2016). In the spirit of learning, there is also a progression of these organisational structures where “learning in set” may lead to “learning in groups” and then “learning in network” where “learners are loosely tied into a “cooperative freedoms” (Dron & Anderson, 2014, p. 66-67reference).
Managing is a science with applied supporting theorems. “Scientific principles represent basic truth about a particular field of inquiry. These principles may be applied in all situations, at all times & at all places” (Juneja, 2015). For example, gravity is gravity no matter where you are on earth. Having these principles also means managing can be measured and quantified. “learners appreciate continuity in online learning experiences—having similar learning management systems, standardised course structures and interactions helps them feel familiar and comfortable with the learning environment” (Lee et., al., 2012).
Organisational structures support strategy through functions and managing follows through, making sure those functions happen. Structure is the thought; managing is the action. Because clear and consistent rules are applied, regardless of the type of structure chosen, the elements are equally applied. Managing DLEs requires the same methodology; applying the science therefore managing DLEs remains equal.
References
Ahmadya, G., Mehrpourb, M., Nikooraveshb, A.(2016, May 2) Organizational Structure
3rd International Conference on New Challenges in Management and Organization: Organization and Leadership, Dubai, UAE.
May 16, 2021 Retrieved from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/308736877_Organizational_Structure
Dron, J, & Anderson, T. (2014). Teaching Crowds. Athabasca University Press. (p. 33, 91). May 16, 2021 Retrieved from:
https://doi.org/10.15215/aupress/9781927356807.01
Juneja, P (2015). Management as a Science. MSG Management Study Guide,
ManagementStudyGuide.com
May 17, 2021Retrieved from:
https://www.managementstudyguide.com/management_features.htm
Lee,C., Dickerson, J., Winslow, J. (2012) An Analysis of Organizational Approaches to Online Course Structures Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration, Volume XV, Number 1, March 2012. University of West Georgia, Distance Education Centre.
May 16, 2021 Retrieved from:
https://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/spring151/lee_dickerson_winslow.html