Summary of content

The aim of the module is to equip students with a critical understanding of the management of employment relations and the employee experience both within contemporary organisations (unionised and non-unionised) and their dynamic environmental contexts as influenced by economic and political shifts, significant technological developments, and an increased emphasis on the ethical treatment and wellbeing of employees. The module particularly examines the changing nature of the traditional employment relationship towards a more individualised employee experience, with a focus on employee voice, engagement and wellbeing. The roles of parties such as employees, management, unions, and the state in contributing to the employee experience are also considered.

In preparation for their future careers in people management roles, students are required to integrate and apply a range of traditional and contemporary theoretical perspectives and frameworks to the management of strategic, collective and individual employment relationships. The two summative module assessments require students to critically evaluate contemporary strategies in managing employment relationships and the employee experience at work (including considerations of technology-enhanced strategies). Students will critically consider the ethical implications of employment relations strategy and practice and how this contributes to the creation of a positive employee experience and decent work, as underpinned by the GCU Common Good attributes of Responsible Leadership, Confidence in making a positive difference, and Resilience, Compassion and Empathy in the management of employees and their experience of work. This aligns with the SfL as this module helps to engage our students with a commitment to the common good. Further aligned to this, teaching follows the Principles for Responsible Management Education and helps students address UN Sustainable Development Goals No. 3 ‘Good Health and Wellbeing’, No. 8 ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth

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Assessment methods