Organizational Analysis & Data Collection Comparison Paper

→ To make this an honors experience, I will go beyond the standard course assignment by conducting an independent analysis of a similar organization, chosen based on shared characteristics. This will require additional research, data collection, and critical evaluation beyond what is expected in the team project.

→ By the end of the semester, I will synthesize my findings into a comparative report, assessing how organizational design principles apply across different contexts and providing recommendations for improvement.

→ This project will strengthen my data analysis, research, and critical thinking skills, as I will work with multiple data points and apply various organizational design concepts. The independent nature of this assignment will challenge me to engage in problem-solving and in-depth research, enhancing my ability to analyze complex organizational structures.

→ Beyond my personal academic growth, this project will contribute to the Honors College experience by introducing Professor Hunsaker to the honors contract process. By working closely with him, we are establishing a framework for future honors students, ensuring there are enhanced research-driven opportunities in this course. This initiative not only strengthens the honors curriculum but also lays the foundation for continued faculty involvement in honors-level coursework.

→ Paper is worth 7.5% of Final Grade

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Timeline

→ Week of February 17: Checkpoint Meeting – Discuss organization choice and assignment logistics.

→ First Week of April: Checkpoint Meeting – Review progress and discuss data collection.

→ April: Submit Honors Contract Reflection.

→ Last Day of Class: Submit Final Paper (same deadline as the team paper).

Engaged Learning & Skills

→ This honors contract enhances my research skills by requiring me to independently analyze an organization beyond the team project. Through data collection, comparison, and application of organizational design concepts, I will engage in deeper critical thinking and develop a stronger ability to synthesize research findings into meaningful conclusions. 

 

Skills Details

→ Communication: I will refine my ability to present research findings clearly in both written and verbal formats.

→ Problem-Solving: I will analyze organizational challenges and propose effective, research-based solutions.

→ Innovation: I will develop creative insights and recommendations for improving organizational structures.

→ Community Contributor: I will help establish a framework for future honors students by introducing a professor to the honors contract process.

 

Additional Honors Contract Information:

→ Student’s project will apply to final grade in the course.

→ The faculty member determines how heavily the project weighs on student’s final grade.

→ To receive honors credit, the student has to receive a B or higher in the course.

→ Projects are submitted to the faculty member, not the honors college.

→ Student has to submit a reflection essay to the Honor’s College about experiencing an Honors Contract and recapping the project.

→ Complete Honors Contract Application by January 31, 2025.

→ Students receive additional credits through the Organizational Design course and the Honors College called ‘Honors Credits’. This ensures Honors accreditation on diploma at graduation and graduating with high distinction from the Kelley School of Business.