Overview
Students will identify and explore the contemporary issues effecting human resource management practice and the impact they are having, and potentially could have, on an organisation's ability to effectively and strategically attract, recruit, retain and manage its human resources in an increasingly dynamic and global environment. The unit critically links human resource management theory and its practical application to contemporary HRM issues. If you have previously successfully completed the unit HRMT20023 Contemporary Studies in Human Resource Management you are not required to undertake this unit.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
There are no requisites for this unit.
Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Offerings For Term 2 - 2019
Attendance Requirements
All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes – in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).
Recommended Student Time Commitment
Each 6-credit Postgraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.
Class Timetable
Assessment Overview
Assessment Grading
This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of ‘pass’ in order to pass the unit. If any ‘pass/fail’ tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully (‘pass’ grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the ‘assessment task’ section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University’s Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.
All University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
You may wish to view these policies:
- Grades and Results Policy
- Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)
- Review of Grade Procedure
- Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – Domestic Students
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – International Students
- Student Refund and Credit Balance Policy and Procedure
- Student Feedback – Compliments and Complaints Policy and Procedure
- Information and Communications Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedure
This list is not an exhaustive list of all University policies. The full list of University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
Feedback, Recommendations and Responses
Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.
Feedback from Student survey
Studying the recent issues related to human resources was very interesting and helpful.
Continue the incorporate contemporary themes and real-world examples in assessments and class discussions.
Feedback from Student survey
Class assessments and presentation marking should be carried out by the lecturer, not the unit coordinator.
Continue to allocate presentation marking to on-campus lecturers. Whenever possible, allocate marking of other assessments also to respective lecturers. However, due to low enrollments in this unit, this may not be feasible always.
- identify key contemporary issues throughout the employment cycle and evaluate those which could affect HRM effectiveness;
- evaluate the implications of the main contemporary HR issues for their potential to impact on the effective strategic management of an organisation;
- reference and critically assess current theory and practice and use this research to propose ways to address issues of contemporary relevance to HRM;
- compare and evaluate approaches which could be used to innovatively and effectively address contemporary HR issues; and
- prepare professional reports and make presentations to initiate and support the implementation of initiatives dealing with contemporary HR issues.
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
| Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | |
| 1 - Written Assessment - 35% | |||||
| 2 - In-class Test(s) - 15% | |||||
| 3 - Presentation - 15% | |||||
| 4 - Group Work - 35% | |||||
Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes
| Graduate Attributes | Learning Outcomes | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | |
| 1 - Knowledge | |||||
| 2 - Communication | |||||
| 3 - Cognitive, technical and creative skills | |||||
| 4 - Research | |||||
| 5 - Self-management | |||||
| 6 - Ethical and Professional Responsibility | |||||
| 7 - Leadership | |||||
| 8 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures | |||||
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Graduate Attributes
| Assessment Tasks | Graduate Attributes | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
| 1 - Written Assessment - 35% | ||||||||
| 2 - In-class Test(s) - 15% | ||||||||
| 3 - Presentation - 15% | ||||||||
| 4 - Group Work - 35% | ||||||||
Textbooks
There are no required textbooks.
Additional Textbook Information
This unit will refer to peer-reviewed journal articles on contemporary HRM issues.
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: American Psychological Association 6th Edition (APA 6th edition)
For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.
u.amarakoon@cqu.edu.au
Module/Topic
Introduction - The "New HRM"
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Social trends – Changing labour market and changing organisations
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Competition & Choice; Competing for people
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Searching and researching; Writing essays and reports; Conducting a literature review; Analysing a case
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Forming groups
Assigning presentation topics
Module/Topic
Contemporary job design- Flexible jobs and flexible workplaces
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Engaging, recognising, and rewarding people
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Managing the workplace – health and safety, industrial relations
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Assessment 2 - Class test
Module/Topic
Managing the workplace – ethics and organisation culture
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Managing knowledge and learning
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Group presentation (15%)
Presentation on Topic 1
Presentation, contribute to discussion, and complete feedback sheet.
Module/Topic
Developing HR Strategy
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Group presentation (15%)
Presentation on Topic 2
Presentation, contribute to discussion, and complete feedback sheet.
Module/Topic
Managing the HR function
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Group presentation (15%)
Presentation on Topic 3
Presentation, contribute to discussion, and complete feedback sheet
Module/Topic
Contemporary challenges in HRM
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
No exam
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
No exam
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
1 Written Assessment
Write an academic essay on "Managing human resources in the digital age".
Your essay should focus on,
- implications of automation and digitisation on managing human resources,
- opportunities and challenges for human resource managers, and
- opportunities and challenges for employees
Your essay should draw on relevant themes from the first five weeks of the unit, and use at least eight (8) references from relevant peer reviewed academic journals.
Length: Approximately 1500 (+/- 10%) words (excluding reference list)
Important : Before commencing this task, carefully read the detailed assessment task and marking rubric available in the unit Moodle site.
Vacation Week Monday (19 Aug 2019) 11:45 pm AEST
Submission online only through the unit Moodle site
Week 8 Monday (9 Sept 2019)
Graded assignments will be returned to students after moderation in two working weeks (vacation week is excluded).
Your report will be assessed on the extent to which it meets each of the following criteria:
- Research (10%) - A thorough knowledge of the relevant material demonstrated through use of an appropriate body of quality sources (including at least 8 references from relevant academic peer reviewed journal articles).
- Analysis (10%) - Identification of the issues, critical analysis, and clear argument supported by evidence.
- Application of theory/literature (10%) - Application and/or integration of relevant theory and literature in the discussion to address the assessment task.
- Presentation (5%) - Logical structure including clear introduction, appropriate paragraph separation or sub sections, and conclusion (2%); correct referencing of sources (1%); clear and concise written communication, including grammar (1%); within word limit (1%).
Penalties for late submissions are applied according to policy [(-5%× 35)/day = -1.75 marks/day]
Important: Plagiarism and academic misconduct are taken very seriously. Such incidents will be reported to the Academic Learning Centre of the University and may result in a “zero” mark.
- identify key contemporary issues throughout the employment cycle and evaluate those which could affect HRM effectiveness;
- evaluate the implications of the main contemporary HR issues for their potential to impact on the effective strategic management of an organisation;
- reference and critically assess current theory and practice and use this research to propose ways to address issues of contemporary relevance to HRM;
- compare and evaluate approaches which could be used to innovatively and effectively address contemporary HR issues; and
- prepare professional reports and make presentations to initiate and support the implementation of initiatives dealing with contemporary HR issues.
- Knowledge
- Communication
- Cognitive, technical and creative skills
- Research
- Self-management
2 In-class Test(s)
This assessment item has two components: individual component and group component.
For in class students - During your Week 7 scheduled class, each member of your team will be given a short case with four(4) questions. You have to read the case individually. Each of you will be assigned one (1) question (out of four) for which you have to write your answer in bullet points in the special answer sheet provided to you by your lecturer. Once all members of the team finish responding to the respective question assigned to them, the group can have a discussion and decide on your group's recommendations. You will then have to write your group's recommendations in the respective answer sheet. The answer sheets have to be handed over to your lecturer at the end of the test.
For flex students - Course coordinator will contact your team in advance to get a time slot for your online test in Week 7. Your team will be invited for a Zoom session (at the pre-scheduled time) and during this session, you will be given a short case with four(4) questions. All members have to read the case. Each member of the team will be assigned one (1) question (out of four) for which you have to write your answer in bullet points. Once all members of the team finish responding to the respective question assigned to them, the group can have a discussion and decide on your group's recommendations. One member will then have to write your group's recommendations in the answer sheet. All answer sheets have to be sent to the unit coordinator at the end of the session.
Duration - One (1) hour
No alternatives for this in-class test. Your participation in the test is compulsory.
Week 7 - during scheduled class for on-campus students; pre-scheduled on-line session for flex students.
To be returned within two working weeks
Your test performance will be assessed on the extent to which you meet each of the following criteria:
Individual component (9%)
- Understanding the case (3%)
- Appropriate application on HRM theory and concepts to analyse the case (3%)
- Relevant and appropriate response to the question (3%)
Group component (6%)
- Identifying the overall key issue(s) (2%)
- Developing appropriate recommendations (2%)
- Team work (2%)
- identify key contemporary issues throughout the employment cycle and evaluate those which could affect HRM effectiveness;
- Knowledge
- Communication
- Cognitive, technical and creative skills
- Research
- Self-management
3 Presentation
Based on one (1) of the three presentation topics selected by your group, prepare a 20 minute presentation for the CEO (using the template provided).
Your presentation should include,
- a comprehensive analysis of HRM challenges and opportunities (related to the chosen topic), and
- recommendations for short and longer term action.
It must draw on relevant topics from the unit and refer to at least five (5) relevant peer reviewed academic journal articles.
This presentation should be a preview of your written report for the CEO, which will be submitted in Review/Exam week
All members of the group should participate in the presentation.
Presentations will be scheduled in Weeks 9, 10, and 11.
On campus students - You will have up to 15 minutes to deliver an in-class presentation, followed by a question and answer session up to 10 minutes. Each student is expected to participate in all class presentations, and complete your feedback sheet.
Flex students - You will have an online session with the unit coordinator during which each team member presents. Presentation time will be up to 15 minutes, followed by a question and answer session up to 10 minutes.
In class students will present during class in Weeks 9, 10 and 11. Distance students will present during online sessions.
Feedback provided immediately after the presentation
Your presentation will be assessed on the extent to which it meets each of the following criteria:
- Quality of research and analysis (3%) – Draw from two or more topics from the unit and refer to at least four (4) relevant peer reviewed academic journal articles.
- Application of theory (3%) - Incorporate theory and literature to identify key issues and provide recommendations to meet the assessment requirements.
- Structure (2%) - Concise and structured presentation with introduction, main presentation, and conclusion.
- Delivery (2%) - Effective use of audio visuals and verbal communication delivered within the 15-minute time allocation.
- Team work (2%) – Work collaboratively as a team.
- Individual marks (3%) – Assessment of individual’s presentation skills.
- identify key contemporary issues throughout the employment cycle and evaluate those which could affect HRM effectiveness;
- evaluate the implications of the main contemporary HR issues for their potential to impact on the effective strategic management of an organisation;
- reference and critically assess current theory and practice and use this research to propose ways to address issues of contemporary relevance to HRM;
- compare and evaluate approaches which could be used to innovatively and effectively address contemporary HR issues; and
- prepare professional reports and make presentations to initiate and support the implementation of initiatives dealing with contemporary HR issues.
- Knowledge
- Communication
- Cognitive, technical and creative skills
- Research
- Self-management
- Ethical and Professional Responsibility
- Leadership
4 Group Work
Based on the topic your group has selected and the feedback received for your group presentation, develop a report to the CEO of the respective organisation.
Your report should include
- a comprehensive analysis of HRM challenges and opportunities (related to the chosen topic), and
- recommendations for short and longer term action.
It must draw on relevant topics from the unit and refer to at least ten (10) relevant peer reviewed academic journal articles.
Length - 2500 words
Important : Before commencing this task, carefully read the detailed assessment task and marking rubric available in the unit Moodle site.
Review/Exam Week Monday (14 Oct 2019) 11:45 pm AEST
Submitted online by one group member on behalf of the group
Feedback and marks will be received along with the certification of grades process
Your report will be assessed on the extent to which it meets each of the following criteria:
- Research (8%) - A thorough knowledge of the relevant material demonstrated through use of an appropriate body of quality sources (including at least 8 references from relevant peer reviewed academic journal articles).
- Analysis (10%) - Identification of the issue(s), critical analysis, and clear argumentation supported by evidence.
- Application of theory/literature (7%) - Application and/or integration of relevant theory and literature in the discussion to address both (a) and (b) sections of the assessment task.
- Presentation (5%) - Logical structure including clear introduction, appropriate paragraph separation or sub sections, and conclusion (2%); Correct referencing of sources (1%); Clear and concise written communication, including grammar (1%); Within word limit (1%).
- Individual's contribution (5%) - Assessment of individuals contribution by group members
Penalties for late submissions are applied according to policy [(-5%× 35)/day = -1.75 marks/day]
Important: Plagiarism and academic misconduct are taken very seriously. Such incidents will be reported to the Academic Learning Centre of the University and may result in a “zero” mark.
- identify key contemporary issues throughout the employment cycle and evaluate those which could affect HRM effectiveness;
- evaluate the implications of the main contemporary HR issues for their potential to impact on the effective strategic management of an organisation;
- reference and critically assess current theory and practice and use this research to propose ways to address issues of contemporary relevance to HRM;
- compare and evaluate approaches which could be used to innovatively and effectively address contemporary HR issues; and
- prepare professional reports and make presentations to initiate and support the implementation of initiatives dealing with contemporary HR issues.
- Knowledge
- Communication
- Cognitive, technical and creative skills
- Research
- Self-management
- Ethical and Professional Responsibility
- Leadership
As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.
Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.
When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.
Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.
As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.
What is a breach of academic integrity?
A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.
Why is academic integrity important?
A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.
Where can I get assistance?
For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.
What can you do to act with integrity?
