Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module builds from Organisations and Resources to explore the management of human resources for sustainable organisational success.  The module focuses on aspects of recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, compensation and benefits, talent and diversity management, workforce planning and employee voice and participation. HR practices and their impact on employee behaviour are examined in the context of organisational strategy.  

Aims:

The module aims to develop deeper knowledge and critical understanding of the strategic management of human resources.  Students are encouraged to apply these skills as they scrutinise the way their organisations operate.

The module aims to prepare students to:

1. Problematize different approaches to the strategic management of people


2. Gain a critical perspective of human resource management as a system linked to organisational strategy


3. Apply best practice in work design, staffing, performance and development management, rewards and employee voice and participation


4. Understand the value derived from HRM practices and how this can be demonstrated through adequate measurement approaches

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module the student will be able to:

1. Analyse the relationship between HR systems and organisational strategy


2. Evaluate different human resource practices in relation to the workplace context


3. To evaluate the relevance of main approaches in work design to a particular strategic context


4. Apply relevant staffing strategies in the workplace context


5. To evaluate the design of performance m anagement and HR development approaches in the workplace context


6. To evaluate the design of principles-based reward systems according to the workplace context 


7. To understand the line manager's role in relation to HR specialist systems and processes


8. Critically evaluate the contexts and practices of employee voice and representation

Effectively utilise different approaches to measuring HRM practice effectivene ss

Additional outcomes:

Students should demonstrate how they have the ability:

1. To set goals and accountabilities


2. To apply their know-how to manage performance


3. To reflect on their role as managers of people

Outline content:

Students will gain increased understanding of the strategic importance of managing people in the context of a service providing organisation. In particular, students will gain a strategic and systems-level perspective of human resource management and be able to scrutinise strategic human resource management practices; students will therefore be able to observe HRM as an integrated set of activities including work design, recruitment and staffing, training and development, performance manageme nt, reward and motivation, employee voice and participation and, measurement approaches applied to the HR function. Students will explore HR strategies and review the effectiveness of their own organisations’ strategy.  They will examine inclusive HR management approaches and consider how this can be used to recruit, manage, and develop people.  The module will examine the use of HR systems and processes to ensure legal requirements, health and safety, and well-being needs are me t.  They will also identify theory and models that will inform their thinking.  They will be expected to apply their learnings to their workplace and be able to assess individual and organisational practice in the strategic management of human resources. They will be required to report their findings.  These will be shared with the apprenticeship provider.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module will be taught using a blended learning approach.  This will include directed self-study, workshops, group work, peer support, and other learning activities.  During the module, students will follow a guided-learning path that will require them to read materials, access other core and optional learning materials and undertake a range of activities.  In addition to the learning path, students will attend workshops.  These are facilitated sessions that will help c onsolidate knowledge, apply it the workplace and develop higher order cognitive skills of analysis and evaluation.  Students will be expected to relate their learning to their day-to-day work.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Students will prepare a management report and supporting reflection on the deployment of learning on the manner in which their organisation deploys, monitors and controls human resources. The report is 3,000 words in length. Submission date dependent on cohort entry date.

Formative assessment methods:

Will be embedded in the learning path and workshop activities.  Peer review will be an integral element.

Penalties for late submission:

Standard penalties will apply see here https://www.reading.ac.uk/web/files/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf

Assessment requirements for a pass:

40%

Reassessment arrangements:

By resubmission of coursework to the same brief, capped at 40%. Date dependent on cohort entry date.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 28 June 2021