Final Assignment: Applied Project Change Leadership Brief

Overview:

The Applied Project serves as the culminating activity of the course. Its purpose is to help students synthesize and apply the principles, models, and perspectives of change management covered throughout the term. By selecting one of three key topics from the textbook, students will demonstrate their ability to analyze real or hypothetical change situations, connect theory to practice, and reflect on how change management principles can be applied effectively in their professional contexts.

Students may submit either a 45-page written paper or a 10-minute video presentation. Both formats should show an understanding of the major ideas from the readings, integration of at least three current (past 5 years) and scholarly sources, and thoughtful reflection on practical implications for leadership and organizational effectiveness.

Detailed Instructions:

Students will select one of the following three topics as the focus of their Change Leadership Brief.

Option 1 Leading Change Through Vision and Purpose (Ch. 6)

In this option, students analyze how leaders use purpose and vision to mobilize support for organizational change. The brief should:

1. Explain the role of mission and vision in successful change efforts.
2. Describe what makes a vision statement effective, referencing frameworks or examples discussed in the course.
3. Apply these ideas to a professional or organizational example where vision and purpose were usedor could have been usedto drive meaningful change.
4. Offer recommendations for aligning vision, communication, and leadership actions.

Option 2 Managing Resistance and Communication (Chs. 78)

This option focuses on how communication influences resistance and commitment to change. The brief should:

1. Identify typical sources and expressions of resistance in organizations.
2. Discuss at least one communication strategy or framework that can be used to anticipate or reduce resistance.
3. Analyze a real or hypothetical change scenario where communication either succeeded or failed to manage resistance.
4. Conclude with a brief action plan outlining how effective communication could enhance change outcomes.

Option 3 Sustaining Change and Developing Change Leadership (Chs. 1012)

Students choosing this option examine what it takes to sustain change and develop leaders who can guide the process effectively. The brief should:

1. Explain common barriers to sustaining change and how they can be mitigated.
2. Discuss leadership competencies or political skills that support long-term change success.
3. Apply these insights to an organizational or professional example.
4. Reflect on lessons learned about ones own l

Submission Guidelines

• Written brief: 45 pages, double-spaced, Times New Roman 12-point font, APA 7th edition. OR
• Video presentation: 10 minutes maximum; use PowerPoint, Adobe Express, or Zoom to record and submit the link in Canvas.
• All submissions should include at least three current (past 5 years) scholarly sources (the textbook may count as one).
• Upload your file or video link by the end of Week 7 in the corresponding Assignment area in Canvas.

ORGL 8760 Final assignment rubric

ORGL 8760 Final assignment rubric

CriteriaRatingsPointsConceptual Understanding

Excellent

Demonstrates a thorough understanding of change management theories, models, and perspectives; integrates course concepts and readings accurately and insightfully.

25 pts

Proficient

Demonstrates clear understanding of major concepts with some minor omissions or inaccuracies.

12.5 pts

Needs Improvement

Application is general, unsupported, or lacks linkage between theory and professional context.

0 pts

/25 pts

Application and Analysis

Excellent

Applies concepts thoughtfully to a relevant organizational or professional example; analysis is logical, evidence-based, and demonstrates critical thinking.

30 pts

Proficient

Applies concepts appropriately with some analysis and supporting evidence, though limited in depth or connection.

15 pts

Needs Improvement

Shows limited or minimal understanding of key ideas; lacks clear connection to course concepts or readings.

0 pts

/30 pts

Organization, Clarity, and Professional Communication

Excellent

Work (paper or video) is well-structured, clear, and polished; demonstrates professional tone, effective flow, and clear delivery or formatting.

25 pts

Proficient

Organization is adequate; ideas are mostly clear with minor issues in flow, grammar, or delivery.

12.5 pts

Needs Improvement

Shows limited or minimal understanding of key ideas; lacks a clear connection to course concepts or readings.

0 pts

/25 pts

Use of Scholarly Sources and APA Style

Excellent

Incorporates at least three current scholarly or professional sources (textbook may count as one). Sources are well-integrated and correctly cited in APA 7th edition (for written) or referenced clearly in the video/slides.

20 pts

Proficient

Includes required sources with minor citation, integration, or currency issues.

10 pts

Needs Improvement

Fewer than three scholarly sources, major APA or citation errors, or lack of credible references.

0 pts

/20 pts