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Motivation Theory Exercise

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Revision questions

  1. Which features of the organisation of a McDonald’s could be described as Taylorite?
  2. Explain the meaning of the term “economic man”.
  3. What is meant by “time and motion study”? How did
    Taylor make use of this method?
  4. Explain the difference between piece-rate and differential piece-rate.
  5. Identify three main consequences of
    Taylor’s work.
  6. Give a brief outline of Mayo’s research methods at
    Hawthorne plant.
  7. How may group norms affect productivity at a workplace?
  8. Explain the meaning of the term “the Hawthorne effect”
  9. Explain two effects upon firms of Mayo’s work on human relations.
  10. Which two levels of Maslow’s hierarchy could be called “the lower order needs”?
  11. Describe in your own words why Maslow organised the needs into a hierarchy?
  12. State three business implications of Maslow’s work on human needs.
  13. Herzberg believes pay does not motivate, but is important. Why?
  14. How do motivators differ from hygiene factors?
  15. What is job enrichment? How is it achieved?

Revision exercises

  1. Which of the factors had the least effect on satisfaction or dissatisfaction?
  2. One of the Herzberg’s objectives was to question whether good human relations were as important in job satisfaction as claimed by Elton Mayo. Do you think he succeeded?
  3. Responsibility had the longest lasting effect on job satisfaction. Why may this be the case?
  4. Discuss