Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2011-2012 (archived)

Module BUSI41P15: HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: SPECIAL TOPICS (DL)

Department: Business School (Business)

BUSI41P15: HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: SPECIAL TOPICS (DL)

Type Open Level 4 Credits 15 Availability Available in 2011/12 Module Cap None.

Prerequisites

  • None.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • BUSI54515.

Aims

  • To develop students’ ability to master the knowledge and understanding at an advanced level of key issues in the processes and practices of human resource management;
  • To provide students with the opportunity to critically understand research in the field of human resource management.

Content

  • The nature of human resource management.
  • HRM, performance and commitment.
  • Recruitment and selection.
  • Performance appraisal.
  • Diversity and equal opportunities.
  • Downsizing and HRM.
  • HRD.
  • International HRM.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Have an advanced knowledge and understanding of the nature and role of HRM in contemporary organisations;
  • Have an advanced understanding of the debates which relate to the links between HRM and organisational performance;
  • Have an advanced understanding of critical perspectives on HRM.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Be able to critically evaluate the processes, procedures and practices of contemporary HRM.
Key Skills:
    Written communication; planning, organising and time management; problem solving and analysis; using initiative; computer literacy.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • The learning outcomes will be met through a combination of learning material, self assessed exercises, guided reading and a learning log to facilitate critical reflection.
  • On the DL MA Programme each module is delivered in discrete Units which are equivalent to a lecture session. A DL Unit normally consists of specially written material, directed reading, reflection through self-assessed assignments and guidance for further reading.
  • Each student is allocated a Tutor for each Module. The Tutor is tasked with providing feedback on formative work and is available for individual consultation as necessary. Tutoring is normally provided at a distance and may be conducted by email, telephone, post or fax.
  • The DL Programme also offers annual residential seminars which provide the opportunity for DL students to interface with members of Faculty, meet Tutors and to interact with other students.
  • .The assessment of the module, by a learning log, is designed to test students’ knowledge and understanding of the subject-matter and their ability to apply it to the analysis of specific topics in HRM as the module progresses.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Online Distance Learning Units 9 12 on average 108
Online Distance Learning Tutorials 5 Nominally 1 hour each 5
Preparation and Reading 37
Total 150

Summative Assessment

Component: Written Assignment Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written assignment in the form of a learning log 3000 words maximum 100%

Formative Assessment:

Draft of learning log (1500 words)

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University