MGF5920 · Work and employment relations

Overview

This unit provides an introduction to the study of work and employment relations in a changing and dynamic environment. The unit aims to provide you with an understanding of the conceptual foundations of employment relations, the key elements of an industrial relations system, and the dynamics of employment relations in the Australian context. Topics covered include: the individual and the employment relationship, the structure and dynamic of labour markets, the management of employment relations in different industry and workplace contexts, the organisation of work, bargaining and conflict, the role of unions, institutions and the relation of employment relations, and the economic and social consequences of different national systems of employment relations.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. examine the conceptual foundations of work and employment relations
2. apply these concepts to developments within the Australian system of employment relations in comparative context
3. describe the main institutional features and key developments in the Australian industrial and workplace relations system
4. identify the implications of these developments for labour management practices, employee voice and participation in the workplace and representative organisations of employers and employees
5. understand the potential effects of institutions governing work and employment relations using workplace and industry case studies
6. demonstrate knowledge or skills for crafting sustainable futures for people, organisations, communities, and/or the environment.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. You are expected to complete all pre-class activities prior to your scheduled class, and post-class activities should be completed after your scheduled class. Learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed, peer directed and online engagement activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.