Human Resource Management

Module Provider: School of Construction Management and Engineering

Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]

Level:6

Terms in which taught: Autumn term module

Pre-requisites:

Non-modular pre-requisites:

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Module version for: 2014/5

Module Convenor: Dr Florence Phua

Email: f.phua@reading.ac.uk

Summary module description:

Effective human resource management (HRM) contributes significantly to overall organizational performance. People are a key source of a firm?s competitive advantage and so, the processes, practices, and implications of HRM must be considered seriously. However, due to a range of practical pressures and factors that are either associated with or embedded within the industry, the vital role of HRM in construction is often overlooked. The module will cover the essential elements of HRM and their implementation in the UK construction industry. It draws substantially on HRM concepts, theories and practices from different industries to facilitate understanding of the issues and concerns that are applicable to both construction and non-construction firms. It will explain and clarify how an informed, well-structured and participative approach to HRM can deliver substantial benefits to all stakeholders: employers and employees as well as their shareholders and clients.

Aims:

The aims of this module are:

(i) to provide you with an appreciation of the characteristics and practices of the construction industry and the role of HRM in both project- and non-project based organizations;

(ii) to introduce you to current perspectives on key HRM concepts;

(iii) to provide you with an understanding of the theories and practical considerations of HRM and its implications for construction firm performance and strategic positioning.

(iv) to enable you to competently apply germane HRM concepts and theories to complete module assignments.

Assessable learning outcomes:

Assessable outcomes

This module is designed to incorporate attributes that are important in helping you achieve a positive learning experience and to promote scholarly inquiry in the broad area of HRM. At the end of the module, and after participating in the lectures and discussions, reading essential texts, and completing all assignments, you are expected to gain sufficient theoretical and applied knowledge to:

(i) understand the theory, core processes and practices of HRM and gain an appreciation of their impact on organizational and individual performance;

(ii) understand the complexities and implications of effective HR strategies for organizational management;

(iii) critically evaluate the principles upon which different HRM practices and policies are developed in different organizational contexts.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

Outline content:

This module is designed in a logical, step-by-step manner to help you develop your analytical skills to understand what may often seem to be nebulous or complex HRM issues. Emphasis will be placed on the joint development and integration of theory and practice. The guiding principle of the module is that theory and practice are inextricably linked. You will be actively encouraged to make the appropriate links through assignments, practical tasks and private study. The tentative outline content for the module is indicated below.

i) HRM in the construction industry context

- Structure of the industry

- The industry and its environment

- Management of (project) organizations

- A place for HRM in the construction industry?

ii) Principles and theories of HRM

- Evolution and development of HRM in modern management

- Current principles and theories

- Role of HRM in overall organizational context

iii) Processes and practices of HRM

- Identify core processes and practices of HRM

- Design, implementation and implications of HRM strategy and policy

- Organisational dynamics, structure and design

iv) Strategic HRM and future development

- Long term strategies for HRM development in construction industry

- High involvement, high commitment HR systems

- Dynamic fit between HR systems and the changing environment

v) Other HRM-related issues

- Managing industrial relations

- Employment relations and legislation

- Managing diversity

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

To make your learning experience intellectually challenging, and practically useful this module will use a variety of teaching and learning methods including lectures, case studies and interactive group discussions. A particular emphasis will be placed on the critical evaluation of accepted concepts and principles.

Contact hours:

Autumn

Lectures 20

Guided independent study 80

Total hours by term 100.00

Total hours for module 100.00

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method Percentage

Written assignment including essay 100

Other information on summative assessment:

Formative assessment methods:

This module will be assessed entirely by an individual written assignment. The objectives of the assignment are for you to appreciate and understand the challenges of HRM faced by organizations and to apply your knowledge of HRM to address issues that arise in real-life organizational contexts.

Penalties for late submission:

The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late, in accordance with the University policy.

where the piece of work is submitted up to one calendar week after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for the piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;

where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Length of examination:

Requirements for a pass:

Requirements for a pass

40% mark overall

Reassessment arrangements:

To be reassessed by re-submission of coursework/assignment only. You are required to contact the School to confirm reassessment arrangements.

Last updated: 8 October 2014