Positioning theory and narratives in the organization: Teaching MSc students to apply theory to practice

Abstract

This short article presents a teaching session on the topic of positioning theory and narratives within the organizational context. The theory is made more accessible to students through playful group experiential learning in which the university assessment process is considered from different discourses and positions. Students could see how, in role, they were positioned and positioned others. Organizational narratives were brought to life. Practitioner points: Novelty and playfulness are important in the teaching of theory Using the 'organization created around learning' offers a refreshing new arena in which to apply theory Positioning theory is best understood through experiential learning. By using the role play, the student is exposed simultaneously to at least three positions; their own personal perspective, that of the character in the role play and the experience of listening to others