This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
International and Comparative Human Resource Management aims to provide an analysis of the HRM systems in seven countries: USA, Germany, Sweden, France, Italy, China and India. Students will be introduced to the main concepts and theories through readings and discussions of the main authors in the field.
Within a broad historical context, an international comparative approach will be adopted to consider the development of the relationship between national governments, employers and trade unions. This will include an investigation of the development and decline of employment relations systems and the emergence of human resource management.
Lectures 11
Seminars 10
Private study 34
Preparation for seminars 20
Preparation for
Module tasks 30
Preparation for assignments 45
Total hours 150
Group Presentation 10%
Timed essay 20%
Final examination – 2 hour, closed book 70%
Bamber, G. Lansbury, R. and Wailes N. (2011) International & Comparative Employment Relations, 5th Edition, London: Sage
Crawley, E., Swailes, S. and Walsh, D. (2013) Introduction to International Human Resource Management, Oxford: Oxford University Press
Dowling, P., Festing, M. and Engle, A. (2013) International Human Resource Management, 6th Edition, Andover: Cengage Learning
Harzing, A. and Pinnington, A. (2011) International Human Resource Management, 3rd Edition, Sage
Reman, T. and Wilkinson, A. (2008) Contemporary Human Resource Management, 3rd Edition, London: Prentice Hall
Williams, S. and Adam-Smith D. (2006) Contemporary Employment Relations: A Critical Introduction, Oxford: Oxford University Press
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
11.1 Understand and evaluate comparative international employment relations systems
11.2 Critically understand the relationship between the management of human resources and the management of employment relations
11.3 Acquire a coherent and detailed understanding of the development of employment relations and human resource management in emerging and established economies
11.4 Critically evaluate the conflicting interpretations of the forces of convergence and divergence in the sample countries
11.5 Assess contemporary theoretical developments around HRM & employment relations
12. The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
12.1 Organise and present an analysis as a considered viewpoint
12.2 Select, organise and synthesise complex information from a variety of sources
12.3 Contribute effectively to organisational decision making in the context of preparing a
group presentation
12.4 Communicate effectively orally and in writing
12.5 Communicate to different audiences using appropriate media
12.6 Demonstrate efficient time management skills
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