Students
ACCG903 – CPA - Global Strategy and Leadership
2015 – S2 Day
General Information
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| Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Unit Convenor
Melanie Seifert
Contact via melanie.seifert@mq.edu.au
E4A Lvl 2
By Appointment
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|---|---|
| Credit points |
Credit points
4
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| Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
ACCG907 and ACCG908 and ACCG913
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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 provides extended formal academic support for full-time students concurrently enrolled in the Global Strategy and Leadership unit of the CPA program. Specifically this unit provides students with a framework and the necessary analytical tools in order to develop and implement strategy. The unit covers a number of modules which predominantly follow a rational, or traditional analytical approach to the strategic management cycle – analysis, choice, and implementation. A number of approaches available to leaders will be examined.
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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:
- Understand and apply the terms strategy and leadership, their relationship, and, consider various viewpoints within these areas
- Theorise concepts such as a) remote environment, b) industry analysis, c) competitor and key customer analysis, d) capability analysis, e) stakeholder analysis and performance measurement. To theorise the concept of f) gap analysis and the g) various options available to organisations in order to h) formulate and make choices about desired strategic directions
- Analyse the role of leaders in developing and implementing strategy and be able to apply the strategy and leadership concepts learned to case analysis undertaken throughout the course, and, to a real case selected by the student in a group context
- Develop professional skills and capabilities in strategic thinking
- Develop social and interpersonal skills in a group work context
- Develop communication and presentation skills relating to strategy and strategic leadership
General Assessment Information
The following is a guide for how the 150 hours study load for this unit should be allocated.
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Task |
Hours |
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Week 1 Preparation and Attendance |
6 |
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Week 2 Preparation and Attendance |
6 |
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Week 3 Preparation and Attendance |
6 |
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Week 4 Preparation and Attendance including Test 1 preparation |
16 |
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Week 5 Preparation and Attendance including Assessment proposal |
15 |
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Week 6 Preparation and Attendance |
6 |
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Week 7 Preparation and Attendance |
6 |
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Week 8 Preparation and Attendance |
6 |
|
Week 9 Preparation and Attendance including Test 2 preparation |
20 |
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Week 10 Preparation and Attendance including pre seen case study preparation |
25 |
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Week 11 Preparation for CPA Exam |
20 |
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Week 12 Preparation of Assessment group report and presentation |
15 |
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Week 13 Attendance |
3 |
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TOTAL |
150 hrs |
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Assessment Tasks
| Name | Weighting | Due |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Class Test | 10% | wkb 17/8/15 |
| 2. Class Test | 30% | TBA (wkb 21/9/15) |
| 3. Assignment | 30% | wkb 26/10/15 |
| 4. Final Examination | 30% | CPA Examination period |
1. Class Test
Due: wkb 17/8/15
Weighting: 10%
A 30 minute test taken in class covering 10 multiple choice questions and short answer questions.
It will not be an open book test
Submission: The test will be held in the wkb 17/8/15
Extension: No extension will be granted without a disruption to studies application being approved.
Penalties: Zero mark for non-submission.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Understand and apply the terms strategy and leadership, their relationship, and, consider various viewpoints within these areas
- Theorise concepts such as a) remote environment, b) industry analysis, c) competitor and key customer analysis, d) capability analysis, e) stakeholder analysis and performance measurement. To theorise the concept of f) gap analysis and the g) various options available to organisations in order to h) formulate and make choices about desired strategic directions
- Analyse the role of leaders in developing and implementing strategy and be able to apply the strategy and leadership concepts learned to case analysis undertaken throughout the course, and, to a real case selected by the student in a group context
2. Class Test
Due: TBA (wkb 21/9/15)
Weighting: 30%
A 3 hour examination testing understanding of concepts and techniques. Students will need to apply these to a case study. Further information regarding the format of the exam will be made available prior to the exam. This exam will cover weeks 1-8.
It will be an open book exam.
Submission: The test will be held in the wkb 21/9/15.
Extension: Supplementary exam is available where students provide substantiated support for disruption to studies.
Penalties: Zero mark for not sitting exam and not receiving approval for a disruption to studies application.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Understand and apply the terms strategy and leadership, their relationship, and, consider various viewpoints within these areas
- Theorise concepts such as a) remote environment, b) industry analysis, c) competitor and key customer analysis, d) capability analysis, e) stakeholder analysis and performance measurement. To theorise the concept of f) gap analysis and the g) various options available to organisations in order to h) formulate and make choices about desired strategic directions
- Analyse the role of leaders in developing and implementing strategy and be able to apply the strategy and leadership concepts learned to case analysis undertaken throughout the course, and, to a real case selected by the student in a group context
- Develop professional skills and capabilities in strategic thinking
- Develop communication and presentation skills relating to strategy and strategic leadership
3. Assignment
Due: wkb 26/10/15
Weighting: 30%
Students will work in groups of 5-6 (students will be allocated to a group in week 1). This is a group activity for students to create a Strategic Plan for an actual organisation using the frameworks and tools learned in this unit. Students are to be creative in their approach to this task. The company selected will have some type of “problem”, “issue” or “opportunity” where the application of the strategic management tools and techniques learned in this unit may bring significant benefits. It will be these “benefits” that you will ultimately be presenting and “selling” in your report and presentation.
Submission:
Proposal (5%)
Groups are required to submit a report providing the selected company for their review and the basis for selection. This is to be handed in at the start of the class in Week 5.
Report (20%)
A 5000 word report is required based on an existing company. This report is to be submitted to the lecturer at the start of your presentation in Week 14.
Presentation (5%)
A 20 minute group presentation to be presented in Week 14 in your scheduled class time.
For further details refer to the "Assessment Guide" posted to iLearn.
Extension: No extension will be granted as the group should be able to plan in advance. If you are having difficulties working within your group you should speak to your lecturer.
Penalties: Zero mark for non submission
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Understand and apply the terms strategy and leadership, their relationship, and, consider various viewpoints within these areas
- Theorise concepts such as a) remote environment, b) industry analysis, c) competitor and key customer analysis, d) capability analysis, e) stakeholder analysis and performance measurement. To theorise the concept of f) gap analysis and the g) various options available to organisations in order to h) formulate and make choices about desired strategic directions
- Analyse the role of leaders in developing and implementing strategy and be able to apply the strategy and leadership concepts learned to case analysis undertaken throughout the course, and, to a real case selected by the student in a group context
- Develop professional skills and capabilities in strategic thinking
- Develop social and interpersonal skills in a group work context
- Develop communication and presentation skills relating to strategy and strategic leadership
4. Final Examination
Due: CPA Examination period
Weighting: 30%
The time and location of the Final CPA Examination is determined by CPA Australia. You will be advised in writing of the rules and further examination details directly by CPA Australia. Submission: Subject to the rules applicable to CPA Australia
Extension: Subject to the rules applicable to CPA Australia
Penalties: Obtain at least a PASS assessment in the CPA external examination.
Students who do not achieve a Pass grade in the CPA Australia exams should discuss this with MACC administration staff to establish your ongoing status within Macquarie University.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Understand and apply the terms strategy and leadership, their relationship, and, consider various viewpoints within these areas
- Theorise concepts such as a) remote environment, b) industry analysis, c) competitor and key customer analysis, d) capability analysis, e) stakeholder analysis and performance measurement. To theorise the concept of f) gap analysis and the g) various options available to organisations in order to h) formulate and make choices about desired strategic directions
- Analyse the role of leaders in developing and implementing strategy and be able to apply the strategy and leadership concepts learned to case analysis undertaken throughout the course, and, to a real case selected by the student in a group context
- Develop professional skills and capabilities in strategic thinking
- Develop communication and presentation skills relating to strategy and strategic leadership
Delivery and Resources
Classes
This unit is structured around attendance at one 3 hour class per week. A link to the timetable can be found here : http://timetables.mq.edu.au
Class attendance is compulsory.
Required and Recommended Texts and/or Materials
Prescribed Text:
CPA Handbook Global Strategy and Leadership (2015) CPA Australia
Recommended Reading:
Johnson G., Scholes, K., Whittington R. (2008), Exploring Corporate Strategy: Texts and Cases 8th ed, Prentice Hall, Harlow, Essex.
Hubbard, G., Rice, I., Beamish, P (2008), Strategic Management: Thinking, Analysis, Action 3rd ed, Pearson Education Australia, Frenchs Forest.
Students can also access additional materials via CPA Online learning. Details regarding this can be obtained within the CPA program guide made available to students upon enrolment with CPA. Students are encouraged to utilise this material.
There is generally a large amount of published literature available concerning strategic management. Students are therefore also encouraged to perform their own research (eg library, internet) during the semester to further explore the content covered within the prescribed and suggested reference texts, and, in class discussion.
Unit Web Page
Course material is available on the learning management system (iLearn). The web page for this unit can be found at http://ilearn.mq.edu.au. Ensure that you have regular access to technology that has reliable connectivity to the internet.
- The Webpage will contain important unit materials including:
- Course details—An outline of the unit
- Announcements—notices updating students on important matters regarding the unit
- Lecture slides
- Results for the mid semester exam
Teaching and Learning Activities
The unit is structured around a 3 hour session.
Lectures will provide students with the main concepts and techniques and these will cover the most significant parts of the content from the CPA Material. Students are expected to work through the material independently and to read the relevant module prior to lecture attendance. Some class discussion/activity will also be undertaken to consolidate the student’s knowledge of the material covered within each week’s lecture.
For each module, PowerPoint lecture notes will be placed on iLearn before the class. They are NOT intended to, nor do they stand alone nor do they in any way replace compulsory lecture attendance and FULL READING OF THE CPA Modules. They are provided for your convenience.
There have been no changes since last offering.
You are not entitled to rely on notes provided by the lecturer for full study purposes nor most importantly can they be taken as being a defined indicator of CPA exam content.
Active participation in class is expected of every student. This helps clarify ideas, understanding and problem areas with the material, as well as enhancing your communication skills.
Ways to enhance your chance of success in this unit:
During 2007 the Master of Accounting program engaged in a significant research project that was designed to investigate and find ways to enhance student participation in the classroom.
Students who were interviewed during the research project stated that participating in classroom discussions, answering lecturer’s questions and engaging in meaningful discussion with colleagues when directed by the lecturer:
1. assists them in retaining information and maintaining interest and concentration
2. allows them to clarify or check their understanding
3. provides opportunities to enhance and reinforce knowledge and learn from other students
4. improves their English proficiency
5. supports their development of communication skills develops skills needed in professional practice.
Lecturers expect students to participate in class as it:
1. provides opportunities for students to review or clarify lecture content and benefit from the experience of other students
2. assists students to think about concepts and test whether their understanding is correct
3. develops confidence in speaking
4. provides opportunities to think in a different way
The research concluded that the benefits of participation include:
- enhancing the learning process
- meeting lecturers’ expectations of students
- helping to increase communication skills.
Unit Schedule
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Week |
Topic/Content |
CPA Reading: CPA Handbook |
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Week 1
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An Introduction to Strategy & Leadership
- Introduction - Review of Unit Guide - Establishment of Groups for Group Assessment
- Origins and approaches of strategy - The strategy process - The global context of business
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Module 1 |
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Week 2
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Understanding the External Environment
- External Environment Analysis - Remote and Industry analysis - Understanding customers and markets - The basis of competition |
Module 2
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Week 3
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Understanding the Internal Environment
- Key stakeholder requirements - Strategic drivers - Operational drivers - People and Organisational drivers - Qualitative Analysis |
Module 3
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Week 4
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In Class Test (10% of assessment)
Group Work allowed for Group Assessment
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Week 5 |
Group Report Proposal (5%) due at the start of the class Product and Market Development - Product and market options - New Product Development - New Market Development - Development of new geographic markets - Accounting Issues in global strategy - Common modes of entry into new geographic markets |
Module 4 |
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Week 6
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Developing the Strategy
- Developing the strategy - Risk assessment - Risk Assessment - Developing strategic themes - Evaluating strategic themes - Creating the plan
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Module 5
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Week 7
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Strategy Implementation
- How to Implement Strategy - Challenges of implementing strategy - Role of CPA in strategic implementation - Future challenges Leadership and Decision Making
- Leadership and Ethics - What is leadership? - Identifying Leadership traits - Strategic Leadership - The role of leaders in: - strategic thinking and decision making - strategic analysis - setting direction - strategy formulation and selection - implementing strategy |
Module 6 and Module 7
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Week 8
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Strategy, Leadership and Communication
- A session conducted to assist students with case studies and presentations within the strategic management process
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Week 9
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Mid Semester Exam (30%) will be held this week. The date will be advised. |
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Week 10
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Self Study week. You will have received the pre-seen case study from CPA Australia. You are expected to prepare the case study in respect to guidance provided in class.
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Week 11
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Case Study Practice Session Note: No class on Monday, October 5, 2015 due to Public Holiday - Labour Day. An alternative class time will be advised to students. |
In Class |
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Week 12
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No Classes
CPA Exam Period
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Week 13
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No Classes
CPA Exam Period
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Week 14
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Group Report and Presentation - Report Due this week |
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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/
Results
Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.
Policies and Procedures
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. You may find of particular interest those which can be found in the Learning and Teaching category.
Academic Honesty
The nature of scholarly endeavour, dependent as it is on the work of others, binds all members of the University community to abide by the principles of academic honesty. Its fundamental principle is that all staff and students act with integrity in the creation, development, application and use of ideas and information. This means that:
- all academic work claimed as original is the work of the author making the claim
- all academic collaborations are acknowledged
- academic work is not falsified in any way
- when the ideas of others are used, these ideas are acknowledged appropriately.
Further information on the academic honesty can be found in the Macquarie University Academic Honesty Policy athttp://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/academic_honesty/policy.html
Grades
Macquarie University uses the following grades in coursework units of study:
- HD - High Distinction
- D - Distinction
- CR - Credit
- P - Pass
- F - Fail
Grade descriptors and other information concerning grading are contained in the Macquarie University Grading Policy which is available at:
http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grading/policy.html
Students must obtain at least a PASS assessment in the CPA external examination. Note that if you do NOT pass the CPA Australia exam then you cannot attain a pass in this unit in this session.
Grading Appeals and Final Examination Script Viewing
If, at the conclusion of the unit, you have performed below expectations, and are considering lodging an appeal of grade and/or viewing your final exam script please refer to the following website which provides information about these processes and the cut off dates in the first instance. Please read the instructions provided concerning what constitutes a valid grounds for appeal before appealing your grade.
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 - 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
- Understand and apply the terms strategy and leadership, their relationship, and, consider various viewpoints within these areas
- Theorise concepts such as a) remote environment, b) industry analysis, c) competitor and key customer analysis, d) capability analysis, e) stakeholder analysis and performance measurement. To theorise the concept of f) gap analysis and the g) various options available to organisations in order to h) formulate and make choices about desired strategic directions
- Analyse the role of leaders in developing and implementing strategy and be able to apply the strategy and leadership concepts learned to case analysis undertaken throughout the course, and, to a real case selected by the student in a group context
- Develop professional skills and capabilities in strategic thinking
Assessment tasks
- 1. Class Test
- 2. Class Test
- 3. Assignment
- 4. Final 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
- Understand and apply the terms strategy and leadership, their relationship, and, consider various viewpoints within these areas
- Theorise concepts such as a) remote environment, b) industry analysis, c) competitor and key customer analysis, d) capability analysis, e) stakeholder analysis and performance measurement. To theorise the concept of f) gap analysis and the g) various options available to organisations in order to h) formulate and make choices about desired strategic directions
- Analyse the role of leaders in developing and implementing strategy and be able to apply the strategy and leadership concepts learned to case analysis undertaken throughout the course, and, to a real case selected by the student in a group context
- Develop professional skills and capabilities in strategic thinking
- Develop social and interpersonal skills in a group work context
Assessment tasks
- 2. Class Test
- 3. Assignment
- 4. Final Examination
PG - Effective Communication
Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Develop professional skills and capabilities in strategic thinking
- Develop social and interpersonal skills in a group work context
- Develop communication and presentation skills relating to strategy and strategic leadership
Assessment tasks
- 2. Class Test
- 3. Assignment
- 4. Final Examination
Research and Practice, Global and Sustainability
This unit addresses global and sustainability issues as direct areas of study and as necessary implications arising from the materials, assessment and academic discussion and debate in classes/seminars. We promote sustainability by developing ability in students to research and locate information within accounting discipline. We aim to provide students with an opportunity to obtain skills which will benefit them throughout their career. The unit materials have a reference list at the end of each module containing all references cited by the author. These provide some guidance to references that could be used to research particular issues.