CQUniversity Unit Profile
LOGS12001 Improve Logistics Performance
Improve Logistics Performance
All details in this unit profile for LOGS12001 have been officially approved by CQUniversity and represent a learning partnership between the University and you (our student).
The information will not be changed unless absolutely necessary and any change will be clearly indicated by an approved correction included in the profile.
General Information

Overview

The unit follows from the foundation laid in the first year units to develop an applied framework on how effective management of staff can improve the performance of the Logistics function of an organisation. Building on the frontline people-related skills developed in first year, this unit takes a more tactical approach and considers the various approaches to management of human resources in Logistical contexts.

Details

Career Level: Undergraduate
Unit Level: Level 2
Credit Points: 6
Student Contribution Band: 10
Fraction of Full-Time Student Load: 0.125

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 1 - 2019

Online

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).

Class and Assessment Overview

Recommended Student Time Commitment

Each 6-credit Undergraduate 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

Bundaberg, Cairns, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Rockhampton, Townsville
Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney

Assessment Overview

1. Group Discussion
Weighting: 20%
2. Written Assessment
Weighting: 35%
3. Written Assessment
Weighting: 45%

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.

Unit Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
  1. Question and explain the link between logistics performance and the engagement model for human resources.
  2. Articulate and practice key skills for effective supervision and management in Logistics environments.
  3. Display self- awareness of own management and leadership style.
  4. Critically analyse and apply problem solving and conflict resolution skills and techniques.
  5. Define and provide impactful feedback and motivation for staff.
  6. Describe and discuss the foundational principles of change management to facilitate improvements in logistics environments.
Alignment of Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Graduate Attributes
N/A Level
Introductory Level
Intermediate Level
Graduate Level
Professional Level
Advanced Level

Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes

Assessment Tasks Learning Outcomes
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 - Group Discussion - 20%
2 - Written Assessment - 35%
3 - Written Assessment - 45%

Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes

Graduate Attributes Learning Outcomes
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 - Communication
2 - Problem Solving
3 - Critical Thinking
4 - Information Literacy
5 - Team Work
6 - Information Technology Competence
7 - Cross Cultural Competence
8 - Ethical practice
9 - Social Innovation
10 - 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 9 10
1 - Group Discussion - 20%
2 - Written Assessment - 35%
3 - Written Assessment - 45%
Textbooks and Resources

Textbooks

Prescribed

Human Resource Management in Australia: strategy, people, performance

5th Edition (2014)
Authors: Kramar, R., Bartram,T., De Cieri, H., Noe, R.A., Hollenbeck, J.R., Gerhart, B. and Wright, P.M.
McGraw-Hill
North Ryde North Ryde , New South Wales , Australia
Binding: eBook

Additional Textbook Information

The eBook version of this text is available at the publisher's website here: https://www.mheducation.com.au/catalog/product/view/id/314045/s/9781760421762-aus-ebook-for-human-resource-management/ 

However, if you prefer a paper copy, they are available at the CQUni Bookshop here: http://bookshop.cqu.edu.au (search on the Unit code)

IT Resources

You will need access to the following IT resources:
  • CQUniversity Student Email
  • Internet
  • Unit Website (Moodle)
Referencing Style

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.

Teaching Contacts
Brian Carr Unit Coordinator
b.carr@cqu.edu.au
Schedule
Week 1 Begin Date: 11 Mar 2019

Module/Topic

Introduction

Chapter

Chapter 1: Human Resource Management in Australia.

Chapter 2: Strategic Human Resource Management.

Events and Submissions/Topic

As part of assessment 1, address questions 3 and 5 on page 45 of the textbook and post responses on the news forum.

Assessment 1 will be presented by the lecturer. Students must complete the tutorial as per the assessment 1 requirements.

Week 2 Begin Date: 18 Mar 2019

Module/Topic

Creating and Sustaining Competitive Human Resources

Chapter

Chapter 5: Employment Relations. 

Journal readings.


Events and Submissions/Topic

Address questions 2 and 5 on p.169 of the text book and post responses on the news forum.

Week 3 Begin Date: 25 Mar 2019

Module/Topic

Employee Engagement and Associated Models


Chapter

Journal readings.


Events and Submissions/Topic

How would you describe the typical behaviours of your staff that are loyal and committed?

Post response to the news forum.

Week 4 Begin Date: 01 Apr 2019

Module/Topic

Employee Engagement and Associated Models

Chapter

Chapter 10: Performance Management.

Journal readings.


Events and Submissions/Topic

Issue A2 case study and undertake tutorial in relation to requirements.

Address questions 2, 6 and 11 on page 364 of the textbook. Post response to the news forum.

Week 5 Begin Date: 08 Apr 2019

Module/Topic

Performance Feedback for Staff

Chapter

Journal readings.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Address question 11 on Page 364 of the textbook. Post response to the news forum.

Vacation Week Begin Date: 15 Apr 2019

Module/Topic

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 6 Begin Date: 22 Apr 2019

Module/Topic

Introduction to the Tools of Continuous Improvement

Chapter

Journal readings.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Identify an opportunity to improve your workplace. Decide what tool (s) you would use and justify your choices.

Provide some examples of how a logistics manager may reduce the carbon footprint (for example, use of energy or reducing waste) within an enterprise.

Post responses to the news forum.


Week 7 Begin Date: 29 Apr 2019

Module/Topic

Leading and Managing Staff and Skills Development

Chapter

Chapter 11: Learning and Development (pages 383 - 403) in the textbook.

Journal readings.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Submit A1.


Group Work Due: Week 7 Thursday (2 May 2019) 11:45 pm AEST
Week 8 Begin Date: 06 May 2019

Module/Topic

Problem Solving and Techniques

Chapter

Journal readings.

Events and Submissions/Topic


Week 9 Begin Date: 13 May 2019

Module/Topic

HR and Conflict Resolution

Chapter

Chapter 13: Managing Compensation and Chapter 15: Ethics and HRM pages 533 - 546 in the textbook.

Journal readings.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Submit A2.


Academic Essay Due: Week 9 Thursday (16 May 2019) 3:00 pm AEST
Week 10 Begin Date: 20 May 2019

Module/Topic

Foundational Principles of Change Management To Facilitate Improvements in Logistics Environments.

Chapter

Journal readings.


Events and Submissions/Topic

Issue A3 case study and undertake tutorial in relation to requirements.

Week 11 Begin Date: 27 May 2019

Module/Topic

Motivation of Organisational Employees.

Chapter

Journal readings.

Events and Submissions/Topic



Week 12 Begin Date: 03 Jun 2019

Module/Topic

Future Challenges in Logistics Operations and Course Review.

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Submit A3.


Business Report Due: Week 12 Thursday (6 June 2019) 3:00 pm AEST
Review/Exam Week Begin Date: 10 Jun 2019

Module/Topic

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Exam Week Begin Date: 17 Jun 2019

Module/Topic

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Assessment Tasks

1 Group Discussion

Assessment Title
Group Work

Task Description

Participants will be required to post a 150 word topic discussion for each of the questions addressed in the News Forum as well as write an approximately 150 word commentary on posts by your colleagues.
Students will need to make at least four posts in the news forum weeks 1 to 6 (two self-generated posts plus two posts on colleagues’ forums). These comments should be based on weekly readings and webinars. This assessment is to be submitted in Week 7 as a portfolio. The total word count for the piece is 600 words (+/- 10%).


Assessment Due Date

Week 7 Thursday (2 May 2019) 11:45 pm AEST


Return Date to Students

Week 9 Thursday (16 May 2019)

Posted on line to Moodle


Weighting
20%

Assessment Criteria

Evidence of engagement and discussion. 20%


Demonstration of theoretical knowledge and application of theory to an organisational situation. 30%


Relevant and justified critiques of other participants' answers to review questions. 20%


Application of SIX (6) relevant academic journal articles and appropriate reference to the prescribed textbook. 15%


Clarity of expression/grammar and correct spelling using Australian English. 5%


Appropriate presentation in an essay format within a maximum 150 words (+/- 10%) per entry (penalties apply for exceeding this limit). 5%


Citation and APA references - 5%


Referencing Style

Submission
Online

Submission Instructions
Posted on line to Moodle

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Question and explain the link between logistics performance and the engagement model for human resources.
  • Articulate and practice key skills for effective supervision and management in Logistics environments.
  • Display self- awareness of own management and leadership style.


Graduate Attributes
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Information Literacy
  • Team Work
  • Information Technology Competence
  • Cross Cultural Competence
  • Ethical practice

2 Written Assessment

Assessment Title
Academic Essay

Task Description

Assessment task 2 requires the writing of an academic essay. This essay should be an 'argumentative essay', and must therefore contain an argument that is used as the structuring element of the paper. Students will be given a short case study that describes a manufacturing organisation that is going through a process of growth and change. The purpose of the essay is to identify the logistics problems within the case, and to identify root causes of the problems that are evident. Students are expected to engage in extensive research within the academic literature relating to identifying problems in logistics management. Recall, it is a problem-centered exercise rather than a solution-focused task.

The word count limit for this report is 1500.


Assessment Due Date

Week 9 Thursday (16 May 2019) 3:00 pm AEST


Return Date to Students

Week 11 Thursday (30 May 2019)


Weighting
35%

Assessment Criteria

A thorough knowledge and critical analysis of the problem(s) identified in the case study expressed within a well-developed academic essay. 20%

A critical review of the academic literature relevant to the problem(s) identified in the case study. This should be embedded in the discussion, not presented separately. 20%

Appropriateness of evidence-based responses to the case study questions including an effective analysis of the situation along with relevant commentary on the issues of concern. 20%

Appropriate use of argument within the paper, including a properly constructed introduction and persuasive conclusion. 10%

Application of six (6) relevant academic journal articles and appropriate reference to the prescribed textbook. 15%

Clarity of expression/grammar and correct spelling using Australian English. 5%

Strict conformity to referencing style of the Author-date system of referencing as set out in the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, Sixth Edition (Refer to the Abridged Guide to APA Referencing Style). 5%

Appropriate presentation in an essay format within a maximum 1500 words (+/- 10%) (penalties apply for exceeding this limit). 5%


Referencing Style

Submission
Online

Submission Instructions
Posted on line to Moodle

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Articulate and practice key skills for effective supervision and management in Logistics environments.
  • Display self- awareness of own management and leadership style.
  • Critically analyse and apply problem solving and conflict resolution skills and techniques.
  • Define and provide impactful feedback and motivation for staff.


Graduate Attributes
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Information Literacy
  • Team Work
  • Cross Cultural Competence
  • Ethical practice

3 Written Assessment

Assessment Title
Business Report

Task Description

Assessment task 3 requires the writing of a business report. The report should be designed as a management document that can be used to implement recommended changes. It should include a comprehensive analysis of the current situation using logistics management theory, models and frameworks including a root cause analysis. The report should also contain recommendations and an implementation plan. Students are expected to engage in extensive research within the academic literature relating to best practice and continuous quality improvement in logistics management. Some research into the industry in question might also help students develop a more robust understanding of the information in the case. The total word count for the piece is 2,500 words (+/- 10%).


Assessment Due Date

Week 12 Thursday (6 June 2019) 3:00 pm AEST


Return Date to Students

Exam Week Thursday (20 June 2019)

Results will be released after Certification of Grades.


Weighting
45%

Assessment Criteria

A thorough knowledge and critical analysis of the problem(s) identified in the case study expressed within a well-developed report. 20%


Appropriate and well structured, concise and clear expression of logistics management arguments. 10%


Appropriateness of evidence-based responses to the case study questions including an effective analysis of the situation along with relevant commentary on the issues of concern.15%


Clear flow of thought throughout the paper with a clear and succinct purpose described in the introduction and a clear and succinct conclusion. 15%


Recommendations that are convincingly argued in the report and the action plan is feasible. 10%


Application of EIGHT (8) relevant academic journal articles and appropriate reference to the prescribed textbook. 15%


Clarity of expression/grammar and correct spelling using Australian English. 5%


Strict conformity to referencing style of the Author-date system of referencing as set out in the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, Sixth Edition (Refer to the Abridged Guide to APA Referencing Style). 5%


Appropriate presentation in a report format within a maximum 2,500 words (+/-10%) (penalties apply for exceeding this limit). 5%


Referencing Style

Submission
Online

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Question and explain the link between logistics performance and the engagement model for human resources.
  • Articulate and practice key skills for effective supervision and management in Logistics environments.
  • Display self- awareness of own management and leadership style.
  • Critically analyse and apply problem solving and conflict resolution skills and techniques.
  • Define and provide impactful feedback and motivation for staff.
  • Describe and discuss the foundational principles of change management to facilitate improvements in logistics environments.


Graduate Attributes
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Information Literacy
  • Team Work
  • Cross Cultural Competence
  • Ethical practice

Academic Integrity Statement

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?