BMA583

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

(Flexible Delivery)

Semester 1, 2012

Teaching Team:

Dr Rob Macklin

CRICOS Provider Code: 00586B

2

Contact Details

Unit Coordinator: Dr Rob Macklin

Campus: Sandy Bay

Room Number: 301

Email: Rob.Macklin@utas.edu.au

Phone: 03 6226 2170

Fax: N/A

Consultation Time: Thursdays: 9.30am – 10.30am

3

Contents

Contact Details ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Page 2

Unit Description ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Page 4

Intended Learning Outcomes and Generic Graduate Attributes.…………………………………………… Page 5

Learning Expectations and Teaching Strategies Approach …………………….………………………………. Page 6

Learning Resources ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Page 6

Details of Teaching Arrangements ………………………………………………………………………………………… Page 8

Assessment …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Page 9

Submission of Coursework ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. Page 12

Academic Misconduct and Plagiarism ………………………………………………………………………………….. Page 13

Tutorial Program ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Page 14

Study Schedule …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Page 14

4

Unit Description

The effective management of human resources is becoming an increasingly vital concern in organisations, whether they are professional practices employing only a few staff, multinational corporations, public sector or not-for-profit organisations. The impact of globalisation, increased competition for talented employees, skills shortages and changing expectations of the employment relationship pose increasingly complex challenges for all organisations. A sound understanding of human resource principles and concepts and how to implement human resource policies and procedures is of importance to human resource specialists and line mangers alike. Effective human resource management requires a thorough knowledge of, and skills in, various people management functions, together with the ability to meld these functions into a carefully planned, well-integrated program that will assist organisations achieve their objectives. In this unit you will examine current HRM topics and bridge theory and practice by examining issues

from both strategic and operational perspectives. There is a focus on students’ understanding of the

skills required to be an effective human resources specialist or people manager. HR matters are

examined from the perspective of managers, HR specialists and employees.

Pre-Requisite/Co-Requisite Unit(s)

Nil

Enrolment in the Unit

Unless there are exceptional circumstances, students should not enrol in BMA units after the end of

week two of semester, as the School of Management cannot guarantee that:

any extra assistance will be provided by the teaching team in respect of work covered in the

period prior to enrolment; and

penalties will not be applied for late submission of any piece or pieces of assessment that

were due during this period.

5

Intended Learning Outcomes and Generic Graduate Attributes

Intended Learning Outcomes Assessment Methods

Graduate Attribute Outcomes In this unit you will learn: In assessing this unit I will be looking at your ability to:

Broad knowledge of Human Resource Management’s function within an organisation including HR’s role and responsibilities in people management and strategic business decision making:

Identify and describe key elements of human resource management. Online discussions Case Studies

The assessments and teaching activities in this unit

have been designed to develop the following

graduate attributes in students:

Knowledge - Intermediate levels of knowledge

specific HRM and the ability to apply that knowledge

to diverse business situations in both Australian and

international contexts. Lifelong learning skills in

pursuit of professional development.

Communication - Written communication skills of a

quality and manner appropriate to real world

business situations and audience needs. The ability

to orally communicate an argument in a succinct and

logical manner and articulate it to individuals and

culturally and linguistically diverse groups in an

engaging and confident way.

Problem solving - Effective problem-solving skills

including the ability to apply logical thinking and

HRM theories and principles to a range of multi-

dimensional business related problems. An

awareness of when additional information is needed

and the capacity to locate, analyse and use it.

Global perspective - The ability to connect and

collaborate with diverse people and a respectful

approach to their cultures and traditions.

Social responsibility - The ability to apply ethical

values to business decision making.

Explain the relationship between HRM, other business functions and employees.

Online discussions/online tests Case Studies

Explain HRM’s strategic role in organisations. Case Studies

Assess an organisation’s HR department activities against best practice HR principles, considering context.

Case Studies Capstone

Knowledge of human resource management theory and principles and the ability to apply theory and principles to practical HR situations:

Research, analyse and evaluate current HRM literature and HRM theories and principles.

Literature Review

Apply research findings to case examples to identify possible people issues and suggest context relevant resolutions.

Case Studies/online tests Capstone

To accomplish HR practices:

Recognise and apply various human resource management practices to achieve business outcomes.

Online discussions/online tests Case Studies Capstone

Demonstrate a capacity to integrate the functions of HRM in order to achieve strategic HR business goals.

Online discussions Case Studies Capstone

To communicate in online and written formats in the language/lexicon and standard of an HR professional:

Participate in online discussions by applying theory, concepts and required readings to case examples.

Online discussions Case Studies

Communicate in a written format using the lexicon/language of HRM and following Harvard referencing conventions.

Online discussions Case Studies Capstone

6

Learning Expectations and Teaching Strategies/Approach

Expectations

The University is committed to a high standard of professional conduct in all activities, and holds its

commitment and responsibilities to its students as being of paramount importance. Likewise, it

holds expectations about the responsibilities students have as they pursue their studies within the

special environment the University offers. The University’s Code of Conduct for Teaching and

Learning states:

Students are expected to participate actively and positively in the teaching/learning

environment. They must attend classes when and as required, strive to maintain steady

progress within the subject or unit framework, comply with workload expectations, and

submit required work on time.

Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S)

The University is committed to providing a safe and secure teaching and learning environment. In

addition to specific requirements of this unit you should refer to the University’s policy at:

http://www.admin.utas.edu.au/hr/ohs/pol_proc/ohs.pdf.

Learning Resources

Prescribed Text

Kramar, R, Bartram, T, De Cieri, H, Noe, R, Hollenbeck, J, Gerhart, B, Wright, P 2010, Human Resource Management in Australia, 4th edn, McGraw Hill. Unit Materials will be provided to you through MyLO, including PowerPoint presentations, mini

lectures, readings, and case studies. The Unit materials must be used in conjunction with the

prescribed textbook.

Recommended Texts

Dessler, G, Griffiths, J & Lloyd-Walker, B 2007, Human resource management, 3rd edn, Pearson,

Frenchs Forest.

Gomez-Mejia, LR, Balkin, DB & Cardy, RL 2012, Managing human resources, 7th edn, Pearson, Upper

Saddle River.

Nankervis, A, Compton, R & Baird, M 2011, Human resource management: Strategies & processes,

7th edn, Thomson, Victoria.

7

Journals and Periodicals

Apart from books, you will find it valuable to get into the practice of reading relevant articles from journals and periodicals (including newspapers and magazines). The following refereed journals publish articles concerning ethical and social issues related to business and management practice.

Asia Pacific Journal of Human Resources

Australian Financial Review (periodical)

Australian Journal of Psychology

HR Focus (periodical)

HR Monthly (periodical)

Human Resource Management

Human Resource Management Journal

Journal of Human Resources

Personnel Management

Personnel Psychology

Personnel Review

Useful Websites

http://www.utas.edu.au/mgmt/student.htm

http://rphrm.curtin.edu.au/index.html

http://www.ahri.com.au

My Learning Online (MyLO)

MyLO software has been incorporated into the delivery of this unit to enhance the learning

experience by providing access to up to date course materials and by allowing for online discussion

through this web based environment.

To access MyLO from your own computer you will need the appropriate software, and hardware to

run that software. See Learning Online at http://uconnect.utas.edu.au/ for computer software you

will need.

Note: Older computers may not have the hardware to run some of the required software

applications. Contact your local IT support person or the Service Desk on 6226 1818 if you

experience difficulties. The School of Management has prepared a MyLO Information Sheet which

includes access guidelines and contact information. It is available to download as a word document

from the School of Management website at http://www.utas.edu.au/mgmt/student.htm.

8

Privacy Policy and Notice

The School of Management takes the utmost care to protect the privacy and security of your

personal information and to ensure its accuracy. If you have any concerns about your privacy in

MyLO please contact the coordinator of this unit or view the University of Tasmania MyLO Privacy

Policy Statement available from the university website at

http://www.utas.edu.au/coursesonline/privacy.htm.

Details of Teaching Arrangements

This unit comprises a range of online interactions via MyLO (the UTAS learning management

system). The teaching and learning resources are based around seven modules of content.

Whilst the unit provides for flexible delivery, it is important that you apply yourself to a

regular learning program. The unit will require completion of assessment activities that are

scheduled throughout the semester. Some online interactions and assessment will require

input prior to being able to access further material. It is important therefore that students

maintain communication with the unit instructor and other students in the cohort.

As the average study time recommended for a unit in the MBA is approximately TEN (10)

hours per week, you might expect to spend about 130 hours of your time on this unit over

the semester. This means that most of your time should be allocated to working through the

modules, assigned reading and assessment tasks.

Lectures

There are no lectures scheduled for flexible delivery. All materials are provided and assessments are

conducted online through MyLo.

Workshops

As above

Communication, Consultation and Appointments

Dr Macklin is available for consultation via email at any time or by phone consultation between

9.30am and 10.30am each Thursday.

Study Week

This unit is scheduled to include a study week. The purpose of the study week is to allow students

the opportunity to consolidate their studies thus far, and to research/complete coming assignments.

The study week for this unit will be held in week 6.

9

Assessment

Assessment Schedule

In order to pass this unit you must achieve an overall mark of at least 50 per cent of the total

available marks. Details of each assessment item are outlined below.

Assessment Item Value Due Date Length

Online Discussion Questions

15% As modules are completed.

Modules 1 and 2 (approx 16 March 2012)

Modules 3 and 4 (approx 4 May 2012)

Modules 5 and 6 (approx 25 May)

200 words maximum each/Participation

TWO (2) online multiple choice tests

10% 26 – 30 March 2012 7 – 11 May 2012

20 multiple choice questions

Literature Review

20% 16 April 1200 words

Capstone

55% 8 June 4000 words

Assessment Item 1 – Online Discussions

Task Description:

At the completion of the following modules students are required to respond to discussion questions related to the module material:

Modules 1 and 2

Modules 3 and 4

Modules 5 and 6.

Online critical discussion with other students will be required. Online discussion posts are required in order to access material that contributes to the progressive case study. It is therefore important to maintain a committed schedule of study throughout the semester.

Assessment Criteria:

See learning outcome table

Task Length:

Maximum of 200 words plus discussion comments

Due Date:

As modules are completed.

Modules 1 and 2 (approx 16 March 2012)

Modules 3 and 4 (approx 4 May 2012)

Modules 5 and 6 (approx 25 May)

Value: 15%

10

Assessment Item 2 – Online Multiple Choice Tests

Task Description:

Online tests will be available on line for a specified period. During this time students will be required to submit their responses. Questions will be based on the material covered in the modules to date.

Assessment Criteria:

See learning outcome table

Task Length:

20 questions each test

Due Date:

Commence 26 March 2012, closes 30 March 2012 Commence 7 May 2012, closes 11 May 2012

Value: 10%

Assessment Item 3 – Literature Review

Task Description:

The literature review requires you to research, analyse and evaluate current HRM literature concerning HRM theories and principles. The review must cover TWO (2) areas of HRM:

1. Ethics and HRM 2. Employment relations.

This is a 1200 word assignment so around 600 words should be devoted to each topic.

Assessment Criteria:

See learning outcome table and rubric

Task Length:

1200 words

Due Date:

16 April at 5.00pm

Value:

20%

* Word Limit: The word count includes such items as headings, in-text references, quotes and

executive summaries. It does not include the reference list at the end of the assignment.

11

Assessment Item 4 – Capstone

Task Description:

This is a progressive case study. That is, over the course of the semester and in line with the module material, details of the case study organisation will be made available. Case study information will be supported with reference material and other resources that will be made available on MyLo.

The final report will take the form of a consultant’s report and be commissioned by the business’s managing director. The report will be aimed at recommending improvements for the firm’s HR performance. The report will need to include:

an executive summary;

a critical analysis of the firm (from the perspective of HR);

recommendations of solutions to perceived problems that are supported by the literature;

clearly articulated and supported reasons for making recommendations.

Assessment Criteria:

See learning outcome table and rubric

Task Length:

4000 words

Due Date:

8 June at 5.00pm

Value:

55%

* Word Limit: The word count includes such items as headings, in-text references, quotes and

executive summaries. It does not include the reference list at the end of the assignment.

Special Consideration and Student Difficulties

If a student is experiencing difficulties with their studies or assignments, have personal or life

planning issues, disability or illness which may affect their course of study, they are advised to raise

these with their lecturer in the first instance.

Should a student require assistance in accessing the Library, visit their website for more information

at http://www.utas.edu.au/library/.

Students who have completed their examinations and who feel that they have been disadvantaged

due to illness or other circumstances affecting their study, may fill out a form to request that their

lecturer takes this into consideration when marking the examination. Forms should be submitted

directly to the relevant school, accompanied by appropriate supporting documentation, as soon as

possible after the completion of the examination. Granting of special consideration is at the

discretion of the lecturer and school. The relevant form can be found at the following website:

http://www.studentcentre.utas.edu.au/examinations_and_results/forms_files/index.htm#eits

Students with a non-English speaking background may be permitted to take a bilingual dictionary

into an exam. This dictionary must not be annotated – that is, it must have no notes written in it.

Students must request permission from the Student Centre in order to use a bilingual dictionary.

12

Submission of Coursework

Lodging Coursework

All Coursework must have the School of Management Assignment Cover Sheet, which is available as a

blank template from the School of Management website at http://www.utas.edu.au/mgmt/student.htm.

All assignments must include the tutor’s name on the assignment Cover Sheets when they are submitted.

If this is not done the assignment will not be accepted and therefore will not be marked.

Please remember that you are responsible for lodging your Coursework on or before the due date.

We suggest you keep a copy. Even in the most ‘perfect’ of systems, items sometimes go astray.

Assignments must be submitted electronically through the relevant assignment drop box in MyLO.

All coursework must be handed in by 2.00pm on the due date.

Requests for Extensions

Written Coursework:

Extensions will only be granted on medical or compassionate grounds and will not be granted

because of work or other commitments. Requests for extensions should be made in writing to the

unit coordinator prior to the due date. Medical certificates or other evidence must be attached and

must contain information which justifies the extension sought. Late assignments which have not

been granted an extension will, at the lecturer’s discretion, be penalised by deducting ten per cent

of total marks for each full day overdue.

Assignments submitted more than five days late will normally not be accepted by the unit coordinator.

Faculty of Business Late Assessment Policy

A full copy of the Faculty of Business late assessment policy is available from the Faculty homepage

at http://fcms.its.utas.edu.au/business/business/policies.asp.

Academic Referencing and Style Guide

Before starting their assignments, students are advised to familiarise themselves with the following

electronic resources. The first is the School of Management Guide to Writing Assignment, which can

be accessed from the following site - : http://www.utas.edu.au/mgmt/student.htm. The guide

provides students with useful information about the structure and style of assignments in the School

of Management.

The second is the Harvard Referencing System Style Guide, which can be accessed from the UTAS

library (http://utas.libguides.com/content.php?pid=27520&sid=199808). The Harvard Referencing

System will be used in all School of Management units, and students are expected to use this system

in their assignments.

13

Academic Misconduct and Plagiarism

Academic misconduct includes cheating, plagiarism, allowing another student to copy work for an

assignment or an examination, and any other conduct by which a student:

(a) seeks to gain, for themselves or for any other person, any academic advantage or

advancement to which they or that other person are not entitled; or

(b) improperly disadvantages any other student.

Students engaging in any form of academic misconduct may be dealt with under the Ordinance of

Student Discipline. This can include imposition of penalties that range from a deduction/cancellation

of marks to exclusion from a unit or the University. Details of penalties that can be imposed are

available in the Ordinance of Student Discipline – Part 3 Academic Misconduct, see

http://www.utas.edu.au/universitycouncil/legislation/.

Plagiarism is a form of cheating. It is taking and using someone else’s thoughts, writings or

inventions and representing them as your own, for example:

using an author’s words without putting them in quotation marks and citing the source;

using an author’s ideas without proper acknowledgment and citation; or

copying another student’s work.

If you have any doubts about how to refer to the work of others in your assignments, please

consult your lecturer or tutor for relevant referencing guidelines, and the academic integrity

resources on the web at http://www.utas.edu.au/tl/supporting/academicintegrity/index.html.

The intentional copying of someone else’s work as one’s own is a serious offence punishable by

penalties that may range from a fine or deduction/cancellation of marks and, in the most serious of

cases, to exclusion from a unit, a course or the University.

The University and any persons authorised by the University may submit your assessable works to

a plagiarism checking service, to obtain a report on possible instances of plagiarism. Assessable

works may also be included in a reference database. It is a condition of this arrangement that the

original author’s permission is required before a work within the database can be viewed.

For further information on this statement and general referencing guidelines, see

http://www.utas.edu.au/plagiarism/ or follow the link under ‘Policy, Procedures and Feedback’ on

the Current Students homepage.

Tutorial Program

There are no tutorials for the flexible delivery option.

14

Study Schedule

Module Topic Chapter/s Assessment Task

1 HRM in Australia & Strategic HRM 1 & 2 Case study work

Online discussion questions

2 The legal context for HRM and Employment relations

3 & 5 Case study work

Literature review

Online discussion questions

3 Ethics and HRM 15 Case study work

Literature review

Online discussion questions

Multiple choice test available for online completion: 26 – 30 March 2012

4 Analysis and design of work 6 Case study work Online discussion questions

4.1 Recruitment and selection 8 Case study work Online discussion questions

4.2 Performance management 10 Case study work Online discussion questions

Literature Review: 16 April

4.3 Learning and development & career management

11 & 12 Case study work Online discussion questions

5 Managing compensation & performance related pay

13 & 14 Case study work Online discussion questions

5.1 Managing employee turnover and retention

17 Case study work Online discussion questions

Multiple choice test available for online completion: 7 – 11 May 2012

5.2 Managing diversity and work-life balance

9 Case study work Online discussion questions

6 Contemporary issues in HRM (including International HRM)

16 Case study work Online discussion questions

7 Evaluating and improving the HR function

18 Case study work Online discussion questions

Examination Period: 9 June – 26 June

NO EXAM: Capstone due 8 June at 5.00pm

It is recommended that students commit to a weekly study plan to cover ONE (1) unit module

element per week.