Course content

People are the cornerstone of any successful organisation. They shape its vision, drive its progress, and ensure its longevity. From the organisation's standpoint, attracting, selecting, developing, engaging, and retaining the most qualified employees is crucial to ensure sustainability. From the employees' perspective, they should be free to pursue meaningful work, and the organisation should support this endeavor. In this dynamic, competence in work and organisational psychologists play a crucial role in aligning the needs of both organisations and (potential) employees by leveraging their expertise in the strategic use of psychological assessments and related methods.

In the Personnel Psychology and Assessment course, students will delve deep into the intricacies of psychological research, theories, and methodologies related to personnel management and development. They will gain insights into the evolving dynamics of the workplace, especially considering the impact of emerging trends such as the gig economy, digitalization, and remote work. Additionally, students will be introduced to modern HR practices, learning how to adapt and refine traditional practices to meet contemporary challenges.

Blending theoretical knowledge with practical exercises, this course offers students a comprehensive understanding of the field. Through case studies, role-playing, and hands-on assignments, students will not only grasp the essential concepts but will also hone their skills to become adept professionals. By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to ensure that both organisations and their personnel thrive in harmony, capitalising on the strengths of psychological assessments and interventions.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

After completing the course, the candidate:

• has advanced knowledge of and specialised insight into state-of-the-art theories and practices related to important topics in personnel psychology (including psychological assessment).
• can analyse ethical dilemmas/problems in personnel psychology and psychological assessment and apply knowledge and insight regarding ethical guidelines to solve these and new ethical dilemmas/problems.

Skills

After completing the course, the candidate can:

• analyse and critically evaluate various sources of information with respect to the practice of personnel psychology theory, methods, and instruments and formulate scholarly arguments.
• use psychological methods and instruments to identify individual, group (team), leadership, and/or organisational needs.
• compose and/or implement a selection, development, performance evaluation, and/or training procedure, incorporating such psychological methods.
• write individual, group, and/or organisational reports.
• facilitate individual (e.g., feedback/coaching) and/or group level (e.g., workshop) interactions.

General competence

After completing the course, the candidate can:

• apply personnel psychology knowledge and skills to carry out (new) advanced projects in the field of Human Resource Management and Human Resource Development.

• apply psychological assessment knowledge and skills within the work context.
• critically reflect on psychological assessment in the work context.
• communicate about academic issues, analyses, and conclusions in the field of personnel psychology, both with specialists and the public.
• contribute to new developments in the field of personnel psychology.
• build and maintain positive interpersonal relationships.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, workshops, group discussions, tutorials, and/or oral presentations. The course is divided into interrelated parts. The course will be taught in a hybrid format, including Norwegian and English classes.

Compulsory assignments

• Panel discussion (with preparation)
• Simulation of a selection process

Specific conditions