Students
BUS 851 – Comparative Human Resource Management
2014 – S1 Day
General Information
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| Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Unit Convenor
Candy Lu
Contact via candy.lu@mq.edu.au
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| Credit points |
Credit points
4
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| Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
BUS651 or MKTG696 or admission to MIntRel or admission to MCom or MIntBus or MEc or MActPrac prior to 2011
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| Corequisites |
Corequisites
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| Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
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| Unit description |
Unit description
This unit has two central themes: (1) How to think systematically and strategically about aspects of managing an organisation's international human assets, and (2) What really needs to be done to implement policies and to achieve a competitive international advantage. The unit will examine the difficulties of blending of exogenous and endogenous factors in more than one country while planning and coordinating vital human resource policies and practices.
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Important Academic Dates
Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- Determine the key terms in international HRM and consider several definitions of international HRM
- Consider the difference and different requirements between domestic and international HRM
- Assess the impact of cultural differences on the management of people in multinational organisations and to examine the impact of global conditions on the strategic management of human resources in the context of overseas subsidiaries, acquisitions and joint ventures
- Identify the possible linkages between International HRM and business strategy, and critically analyse International HRM functions and process in various international settings
- Define and explain the theories which guide the policies, processes and procedures of International HRM
Assessment Tasks
| Name | Weighting | Due |
|---|---|---|
| ESSAY | 40% | Week6: 11 April 2014 @ 5pm |
| GROUP PRESENTATION & REPORT | 30% | Weeks 8-12 |
| EXAMINATION | 30% | University Examination Period |
ESSAY
Due: Week6: 11 April 2014 @ 5pm
Weighting: 40%
This is an individual assignment with a maximum of 1500 words (+/- 10%, excluding references list). All finalised reports MUST be uploaded to iLearn by the due date.
All assignments submitted for assessment must adhere to the following standards:
1. Cover Page
For each of the assignment, you must use a cover (or title) page that provides the following information:
- Your full name and student ID number;
- Contact details: email address;
- Unit code and name;
- Assignment number and assignment title;
- An exact word count of the number of words in the body of your assignment. (Use Word’s Tools menu and click on Word Count.)
2. Presentation of Assignments
Assignments should meet normal academic and professional standards of presentation, including:
- All pages, excluding the cover page, should be numbered;
- Page margins should be 2.54 cm (default margin settings) on all four edges and double spaced;
- Times New Roman font type and font size of 12 points should be used;
- Assignments should be free of typographical and grammatical errors;
- Harvard referencing system should be used.
Students are required to submit their electronic copy of assessment to Turnitin via the Internet as part of the submission process for assignment. Your assignment will then be automatically compared to work of your classmates, previous students from Macquarie and other universities, with material available on the Internet, both freely available and subscription-based electronic journals.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Before submission, name your electronic file in a Word document with the correct file name, that is, your YOUR SURNAME first, then your student ID WITH ONLY AN UNDERSCORE FOR SPACING, e.g., JONES_20141234. To avoid any potential plagiarism issues you or your group can submit the assignment more than once up to the due date.
4. Late Submissions
No extensions will be granted. Students who have not submitted the task prior to the deadline will be awarded a mark of '0' for the task, except for cases in which an application for special consideration is made and approved.
Essay topics and marking rubrics can be seen on iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Determine the key terms in international HRM and consider several definitions of international HRM
- Consider the difference and different requirements between domestic and international HRM
- Assess the impact of cultural differences on the management of people in multinational organisations and to examine the impact of global conditions on the strategic management of human resources in the context of overseas subsidiaries, acquisitions and joint ventures
- Define and explain the theories which guide the policies, processes and procedures of International HRM
GROUP PRESENTATION & REPORT
Due: Weeks 8-12
Weighting: 30%
Note: Your Report is due on the day of your presentation.
Groups will pick a research topic area and present their findings verbally and in a written report. Each group will consist of 3-5 students.
a) Group presentation, 10% group mark - 30 minutes (including 15-20 munites presentation and 10-15 minutes questions/discussions).
b) Group report, 20% group mark - 1,500 words (+/- 10%), excluding reference list.
The aim of the group report is to improve your ability to analyse, compare and contrast factors across two different countries: your selected country and Australia and to relate your analysis to international human resource management. Selection of country choice is on a 'first come, first served' basis.
The written report should includ the following:
- Executive Summary (not included in word count)
- Introduction (setting the context of selected country)
- Analysis (comparison of factors outlined below e.g., population, cultural issues)
- Implications and recommendations for HR professionals
- Reference list (not included in word count)
All assignments submitted for assessment must adhere to the following standards:
1. Cover Page
For each of the assignment, you must use a cover (or title) page that provides the following information:
- Each group member's full name and student ID number;
- Contact details: email address;
- Unit code and name;
- Assignment number and assignment title;
- An exact word count of the number of words in the body of your assignment. (Use Word’s Tools menu and click on Word Count.)
2. Presentation of Assignments
Assignments should meet normal academic and professional standards of presentation, including:
- All pages, excluding the cover page, should be numbered;
- Page margins should be 2.54 cm (default margin settings) on all four edges and double spaced;
- Times New Roman font type and font size of 12 points should be used;
- Assignments should be free of typographical and grammatical errors;
- Harvard referencing system should be used.
3. Submission Procedure
Students will hand in their group report to the lecturer on the day of their presentation. All finalised reports MUST be uploaded to turnitin after the hardcopy submission.
4. Late Submissions
No extensions will be granted. Students who have not submitted the task prior to the deadline will be awarded a mark of '0' for the task, except for cases in which an application for special consideration is made and approved.
Detailed requirements and marking rubrics and can be seen on iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Determine the key terms in international HRM and consider several definitions of international HRM
- Consider the difference and different requirements between domestic and international HRM
- Assess the impact of cultural differences on the management of people in multinational organisations and to examine the impact of global conditions on the strategic management of human resources in the context of overseas subsidiaries, acquisitions and joint ventures
- Identify the possible linkages between International HRM and business strategy, and critically analyse International HRM functions and process in various international settings
- Define and explain the theories which guide the policies, processes and procedures of International HRM
EXAMINATION
Due: University Examination Period
Weighting: 30%
Length: 2h plus 10 minutes reading time
A two hour closed book examination will be centrally conducted during the university’s formal examination period. Students will be required to select five short answer questions to respond to, out of a possible eight questions. The exam will cover the cour se content from weeks 1-12. Revision will be carried out in week 13 and students will be provided with study tips.
You are expected to present yourself for examination at the time and place designated in the University Examination Timetable. The timetable will be available in draft form approximately eight weeks before the commencement of the examinations and in final form approximately four weeks before the commencement of the examinations http://www.exams.mq.edu.au/exam/
The only exception to not sitting an examination at the designated time is because of documented illness or unavoidable disruption. In these circumstances you may wish to consider applying for Special Consideration. Information about unavoidable disruption and the special consideration process is available at http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/special_consideration/procedure.html
If a Supplementary Examination is granted as a result of the Special Consideration process the examination will be scheduled after the conclusion of the official examination period.
The Macquarie university examination policy details the principles and conduct of examinations at the University. The policy is available at: http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/examination/policy.html
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Determine the key terms in international HRM and consider several definitions of international HRM
- Consider the difference and different requirements between domestic and international HRM
- Assess the impact of cultural differences on the management of people in multinational organisations and to examine the impact of global conditions on the strategic management of human resources in the context of overseas subsidiaries, acquisitions and joint ventures
- Identify the possible linkages between International HRM and business strategy, and critically analyse International HRM functions and process in various international settings
Delivery and Resources
CLASSES
Seminar classes will be conducted over 3 hours of face-to-face teaching per week. Seminar classes will consist of a lecture (2h) and tutorial component (1h).
The timetable for classes can be found on the University web site at:http://www.timetables.mq.edu.au/
Classroom sessions are backed up online with lecture notes, case studies, articles and discussion points on the major topics above that make up the unit content.
Absences in lectures
It is expected that students attend the seminar sessions and do the necessary readings and preparation for classes. Medical certificates must be provided if you are not able to attend a class without incurring a penalty. Please read the full policy located at: http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/special_consideration/policy.html
The application for exemption form is available at: http://www.reg.mq.edu.au/Forms/APScons.pdf
Students are expected to arrive on time, and not to leave until the class ends.
If you have a recurring problem that makes you late, or forces you to leave early, have the courtesy to discuss this with your lecturer.
Students must be quiet during classes, unless of course when class participation is required. Mobile phone must be turned OFF and not simply set to ‘silent’.
Students who disturb or disrupt in lectures and tutorials will be asked to leave.
Prizes
Prizes for this unit (if applicable).
http://www.businessandeconomics.mq.edu.au/undergraduate_degrees/prizes_scholarships
REQUIRED AND RECOMMENDED TEXTS AND/OR MATERIALS
Prescribed Text
Dowling, P., Festing, M., & Engle, A. D. (2013). International Human Resource Management (6th ed.). London: Cengage Learning.
Obtainable from Macquarie University Coop Bookshop (macq_byr@coop-bookshop.com.au)
Students should have their own copy of this text. There are some copies on the library shelves and in library reserve. Lectures support and add to the textbook but cannot replace it.
Recommended Books
Harzing, A.-W., & Pinnington, A. (2011). International Human Resource Management (3rd ed.). London: Sage.
Nankervis, A., Baird, M., Coffey, J., & Shields, J. (2014). Human Resource Management: Strategy and Practice (8th ed.). South Melbourne: Victoria Cengage Learning Australia.
Hayton, J. C., Biron, M., Christiansen, L. C., & Kuvaas, B. (Eds.). (2012). Global Human Resource Management Casebook. New York: Routledge.
TECHNOLOGY USED AND REQUIRED
Students are required to use information technology in this unit.
Students will need to use:
- Library databases to source materials for the research reports, which are accessed electronically for conducting research for assignments;
- Electronic (internet) access to iLearn to download unit learning resources and upload assignments or other materials required for class activities and assignments;
- Microsoft word and Power point (where applicable) for the research reports and presentations.
Unit Web Page
Course material is available on the learning management system (ilearn). The web page for this unit can be found at: https://ilearn.mq.edu.au/login/MQ/
LEARNING AND TEACHING ACTIVITIES
This unit will be taught via the participant-centred method of teaching. Students will partake in lectures, cases, video cases, and discussions/activities in class.
This unit is presented through the following learning media:
- Thirteen weekly classroom lectures combined with small group discussions, case studies and videos.
- Students must attend at least 10 out of the 13 seminars. Lectures are supported online on iLearn:http://ilearn.mq.edu.au
- Lecture notes, assignment details, assessment methods, case studies, reading and reference materials and a sample exam paper are posted on iLearn.
- All students will upload an individual essay that in week 6, which carries a weightage of 40%.
- Student groups will be formed for group presentation. Each group only presents once. The weightage of this presentation is 10%.
- Every presenting group will submit a research report both on-line and in person on the day of presentation. The weightage of this submission is 20%.
- The total assignment weightage is 70% and the final exam will be 30%.
CHANGES SINCE THE LAST OFFERING OF THIS UNIT
There are some changes made to assessment tasks since the last offering:
(1) The weight for group presentation and report has been changed to 30%;
(2) The weight for final examination has been changed to 30%; and
(3) In-class test in the last offering has been changed to closed-book final examination, which will be scheduled during the University Examination Period.
Unit Schedule
Please note: the week-by-week seminar content below is subject to changes by the unit convenor if required.
| Date | Lecture Topic | Activity |
| 5 Mar 14, 9.00am |
Week 1: Introduction to Unit and IHRM |
Read Chapter 1 of textbook Getting to know you Start organising student groups Essay topic question handed out and discussed |
| 12 Mar 14, 9.00am | Week 2: The Cultural Context of IHRM |
Read Chapter 2 of textbook Groups formed for group presentation and report Small group activity |
| 19 Mar 14, 9.00am | Week 3: The Organisational Context of IHRM |
Read Chapter 3 of textbook Case Study: Wolfgang’s Balancing Act (p. 289) |
| 26 Mar 14, 9.00am | Week 4: IHRM in Cross-Border Mergers & Acquisitions, International Alliances and SMEs |
Read Chapter 4 of textbook Small group activity Individual assignment discussion |
| 2 Apr 14, 9.00am | Week 5: Staffing International Operations for Sustained Global Growth |
Read Chapter 5 of textbook Case Study: Strategic Forecasts and Staffing Formulation (p.298) |
| 9 Apr 14, 9.00am |
Week 6: Recruiting and Selecting Staff for International Assignments Individual assignment due. Online submission deadline: 11 April 2014 @ 5pm |
Read Chapter 5 of textbook Case Study: Local or International? (p.305) |
| MID | SEMESTER BREAK | |
| 30 Apr 14, 9.00am | Week 7: International Performance Management |
Read Chapter 6 of textbook Small group activity Feedback on individual assignment |
| 7 May 14, 9.00am | Week 8: International Training and Development |
Read Chapter 7 of textbook Group presentations |
| 14 May 14, 9.00am | Week 9: International Careers_Expatriation and Repatriation |
Read Chapter 7 of textbook Group presentations |
| 21 May 14, 9.00am | Week 10: International Compensation |
Read Chapter 8 of textbook Group presentations |
| 28 May 14, 9.00am | Week 11: International Industrial Relations |
Read Chapter 9 of textbook Guest lecture and/or video Group presentations |
| 4 Jun 14, 9.00am | Week 12: International Trends and Future Challenges |
Read Chapter 10 of textbook Group presentations |
| 11 Jun 14, 9.00am | Week 13: Unit Review and Exam Preparation | Review |
Policies and Procedures
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
Academic Honesty Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/academic_honesty/policy.html
Assessment Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy.html
Grading Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grading/policy.html
Grade Appeal Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/gradeappeal/policy.html
Grievance Management Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grievance_management/policy.html
Disruption to Studies Policy http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/disruption_studies/policy.html The Disruption to Studies Policy is effective from March 3 2014 and replaces the Special Consideration Policy.
In addition, a number of other policies can be found in the Learning and Teaching Category of Policy Central.
Student Code of Conduct
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/support/student_conduct/
Student Support
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
Learning Skills
Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.
Student Services and Support
Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.
Student Enquiries
For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au
IT Help
For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://informatics.mq.edu.au/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.
Graduate Capabilities
PG - Discipline Knowledge and Skills
Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Determine the key terms in international HRM and consider several definitions of international HRM
- Consider the difference and different requirements between domestic and international HRM
- Assess the impact of cultural differences on the management of people in multinational organisations and to examine the impact of global conditions on the strategic management of human resources in the context of overseas subsidiaries, acquisitions and joint ventures
- Identify the possible linkages between International HRM and business strategy, and critically analyse International HRM functions and process in various international settings
- Define and explain the theories which guide the policies, processes and procedures of International HRM
Assessment tasks
- ESSAY
- GROUP PRESENTATION & REPORT
- EXAMINATION
PG - Critical, Analytical and Integrative Thinking
Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Determine the key terms in international HRM and consider several definitions of international HRM
- Consider the difference and different requirements between domestic and international HRM
- Assess the impact of cultural differences on the management of people in multinational organisations and to examine the impact of global conditions on the strategic management of human resources in the context of overseas subsidiaries, acquisitions and joint ventures
- Identify the possible linkages between International HRM and business strategy, and critically analyse International HRM functions and process in various international settings
- Define and explain the theories which guide the policies, processes and procedures of International HRM
Assessment tasks
- ESSAY
- GROUP PRESENTATION & REPORT
- EXAMINATION
PG - Research and Problem Solving Capability
Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Assess the impact of cultural differences on the management of people in multinational organisations and to examine the impact of global conditions on the strategic management of human resources in the context of overseas subsidiaries, acquisitions and joint ventures
- Identify the possible linkages between International HRM and business strategy, and critically analyse International HRM functions and process in various international settings
Assessment tasks
- ESSAY
- GROUP PRESENTATION & REPORT
- EXAMINATION
Research and Practice
The unit uses research from several external sources namely academic journals below, to support your learning of IHRM concepts and theories:
- Human Resource Management
- International Journal of Human Resource Management
- Human Resource Management Journal
- Human Resource Management Review
- Journal of International Business Studies
- Journal of International Management
A list of research articles from these sources will be posted on iLearn, which will allow students to keep up-to-date with current trends and practices in IHRM and considerably expand their knowledge of this subject.
This unit gives you opportunities to conduct research and gives you practice in applying research findings in your assessments.