Teaching Theory X and Theory Y in Organizational Communication

Courses: Introduction to Organizational Communication, Introduction to Communication Studies, Communication Theory Objectives: The purpose of this activity is to integrate McGregor's Theory X and Theory Y into a group application: design a syllabus that embodies either Theory X or Theory Y tenets. Students should be able to differentiate between Theory X and Theory Y, create a syllabus based on Theory X or Theory Y tenets, evaluate the different syllabi created by the class, and draw conclusions about organizational communication based on Theory X and Theory Y. Moreover, this activity will challenge student assumptions about ontology and epistemology, and the reasons they are in college. Students will theorize why professors employ certain pedagogical approaches. Time required: Single class: 35-45 minutes.