Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This undergraduate unit provides an overview of leadership principles and approaches relevant to the health sector, and with a particular focus on population health. Leadership in this unit is defined broadly, and includes: leading as individuals; leadership in groups and teams; leadership in health organisations; and concepts of shared and collective leadership around priority health issues facing society.

Different ways of describing and fostering the characteristics of effective leadership are reviewed. A distinction is made between management and leadership, and factors contributing to effective leadership in different contexts and settings are explored. The important role of interpersonal and communication skills in health leadership is considered, and the unit provides opportunities for student self-reflection and development of skills relevant to leadership.

The unit explores a range of contemporary issues that impact on health leadership in the twenty-first century, both nationally and internationally. An introduction is provided to several other substantive topics relevant to health leadership, such as ethical leadership and the importance of good governance, leading change, and the challenges for leadership in the face of a health crisis.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 core unit in the Public Health major sequence
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe key styles of leadership and how these might impact on effective health leadership in different contexts; (2) identify different dimensions of leadership; at the individual, team, organisation and health sector level; (3) apply leadership principles to different health issues and contexts; (4) apply theories of facilitating and leading change; and (5) explain why ethical leadership and accountability are important for public health leadership.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) major written assignment; (2) final examination; and (3) tutorial participation and on-line activities. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Ania Stasinska
Contact hours
Seminar: 3 hours per week
Recommended
reading

Recommended reading is provided on the unit's LMS (Learning Management System) page.

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.