Organizational Behavioral Research: Theory Development

Course Content

In this course, we will discuss the art of theory building in organizational behavioral research. Thereby, we focus on behavioral theories that are applied within the management arena, behavioral economics are NOT discussed in this course.

All research projects aim at making a theoretical contribution. However, several questions and challenges arise along the pathway of each research project, such as:

 What is a theoretical contribution?

 How do I know that I really have an innovative research idea?

 Do my methods match my aimed theoretical contribution?

 How do I write good theory?

 What do I have to consider when publishing theory?

 How do I meet ethical standards when publishing theory?

Intended Learning Outcomes and Competencies

1) Define a theoretical contribution

2) Identify different types of theoretical contributions

3) Describe the process of theory development

4) Distinguish different methods of theory development

5) Combine different theories

6) Evaluate the methodological fit between a theoretical contribution and the methods chosen

7) Write and publish theory

Instruction Type

On WHU Campus in Duesseldorf, Kick-off Meeting (online)

Form of Examination

Group Presentation, Individual Presentation, Group Discussion, Individual Class Participation

Literature

Will be provided in the first session.