Business and Society: The Changing World of Work

Course description:
What does the future world of work look like? This module critically evaluates contemporary trends in the changing world of work. We focus on these trends with a view to understanding their implications for work, employment and society. Some issues explored in this module are automation and AI, emotional labour, flexible working, the platform economy, climate change, regulation and the role of the state, and globalisation. The extent to which COVID-19 has disrupted, or accelerated, such trends will also be explored throughout.

Learning outcomes:
On completion of the module, students can expect to have acquired:
• An understanding of social, political, technological, environmental and economic challenges facing modern workplaces.
• Knowledge as to how external, societal factors are influencing the experience of work.
• Relevant strategies to navigate the future world of work.
• The ability to think critically about the consequences of changes to work and employment.
• An international perspective on the changing world of work

Assessments:
The course assessments are not compulsory, however, if you wish to transfer credit for this course to your home university it is essential to complete the assignments.
Essay (1500 words) (80%) and In-class Test (20%)

Preparation:
Before you arrive on campus, it is advised that you familiarise yourself with the course content before it begins. You will be given instructions for accessing our Virtual Learning Environment (QMplus) before you arrive on campus.

Teaching:
The course is taught in two two-hour sessions per day (10.00 - 12.00 and 13.00 - 15.00), held Monday to Thursday each week.
Session 1 Introduction: Work, Society and COVID-19
Session 2 Flexible working and remote working
Session 3 Artificial Intelligence and Digitisation
Session 4 The Platform Economy
Session 5 Climate Change
Session 6 Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Session 7 Millennials, Gen Z and Beyond
Session 8 Emotional Labour and Mental Health
Session 9 FIELD TRIP - TBC
Session 10 Student Presentations
Session 11 The Role of a State: A New Social Contract?
Session 12 FIELD TRIP - TBC