Explain implicit assumptions and behaviors that affect explicit behaviors
The Efficiency Challenge Assignment
Purpose of the Assignment
Transformative Learning is the process of using prior interpretation to construe a new and revised
interpretation of meaning of one’s experience in order to guide future action (Mezirow, 1996, p. 162).
For this assignment, we will seek to achieve transformative learning that applies the concepts of
effectiveness and efficiency. Effectiveness is about achieving goals – that is, making your intended
outcomes happen. Efficiency is about maximizing your resources (e.g. time, money, people, etc.). It is
much easier to achieve goals without any resource constraints. The key is to be as efficient as possible as
you work toward being effective.
This assignment supports the following Course and Module learning objectives:
• Identify ways to become more efficient and effective by completing a simulated work
experience assignment.
• Analyze activities associated with each of the functions of management (planning, leading,
organizing, controlling).
• Explain the benefits of controls.
• Explain how efficiency can be achieved by raising awareness of habitual behaviors through a
real-world experience.
• The quantitative calculation of the amount of time and/or money saved and the simulation of a
real work experience.
Assignment Requirements
The Efficiency Challenge consists of three parts. You will submit three separate documents to three
separate Brightspace Assignments Folders with each having a specific due date. Note that parts 2 and 3
should include the previously submitted activities. Submissions should be typed, free of errors (quality
submission), double spaced and include your name, course, name of assignment. All submissions must
be uploaded to the Brightspace Assignments Folder no later than due date.
Part 1. Identify an Experience to Improve:
1. First, answer this question: What is one thing you are doing now that you are spending more
time or money on than you should? What excess time or money might you be wasting?
2. Select either time or money and make sure you are willing to (a) track your spending in this area
and (b) cut back on it.
3. Don’t make any changes to your routine but just track it for a week and document how you’re
going to do your tracking: electronic app, spreadsheet, journal, notebook, etc.
4. Summarize your observations after one week of tracking.
5. Include a table that details days/dates and tracking of time used/money spent.
6. Track at least 5 days of activity.
Part 2. Analysis of the Experience:
The goal of Part 2 is to uncover implicit assumptions and behaviors that affect the explicit behaviors
cited in Part 1.
1. Analyze the data in your tracking table for improved efficiency opportunities.
2. Develop a five-step “action plan” of ways to cut back on spending time or money (must be
measurable). Use the SMART goal format.
3. Estimate how much time or money you could save over a whole semester.
4. Outline a contingency plan for a specific circumstance that could develop in your live, such as a
birthday celebration or weekend mini vacation.
Document your responses to the above instructions in 1 page. Be sure to include Part 1 so your
submission will be 2 pages total. Be sure the 2 parts are clearly labeled. Submit to Brightspace
Part 3. Change in Behavior:
The goal of Part 3 is lasting change through new perspectives on your ability to control your spending of
time or money; and to do so in a way that maximizes your effectiveness.
1. Analyze your SMART plan results.
2. Prepare a report on the results of the initiative to include:
a. what you saved
b. what worked
c. what did not work
d. whether in the future you will:
i. not change anything
ii. correct your performance/make a change
iii. revise your standard (goal)
3. What surprising perspectives and/or discoveries do you take from this assignment?
4. If you were a manager faced with this same challenge, describe how the theories and topics in
this course can be applied to the situation.
Document Part 3 in 2 pages. Be sure to include Parts 1 and 2 so your submission will be 4 pages total.
Be sure the 3 parts are clearly labeled. Submit to Brightspace Assignments Folder labeled “Efficiency
Answer preview:
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