21702 Industrial Relations
Warning: The information on this page is indicative. The subject outline for a particular semester, location and mode of offering is the authoritative source of all information about the subject for that offering. Required texts, recommended texts and references in particular are likely to change. Students will be provided with a subject outline once they enrol in the subject.
UTS: Business: ManagementCredit points: 6 cp
Subject level:
Postgraduate
Result type: Grade and marksThere are course requisites for this subject. See access conditions.
Handbook description
This subject provides an in-depth knowledge of the institutions, processes and contemporary forces relevant to understanding industrial relations in Australia and in other national contexts. The contemporary pressures upon industrial relations and the major legislation affecting the workplace are discussed and analysed. The practical skills required to effectively handle industrial relations are also covered, particularly those relating to grievance procedures, negotiations and advocacy.
Subject objectives/outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
- explain the nature of contemporary Australian industrial relations, the forces giving rise to the current structures and processes, and how these relate to government and organisational policies
- explain and critically evaluate the various methods available in the Australian context for handling industrial relations conflicts and setting employment conditions, rights and obligations
- examine the nature of the industrial relations strategic planning process, the situational factors impacting on its key considerations and the implications of various industrial relations outcomes
- develop industrial relations policies for achieving stakeholder goals.
Contribution to course aims and graduate attributes
This subject develops students' understanding of the pressures impacting on organisations and individuals in the context of industrial relations. It provides students with the knowledge of contemporary industrial relations rules and regulations needed to develop strategic industrial relations responses, practices and policy initiatives.
Teaching and learning strategies
The material for this subject is presented through lectures, discussion and exercises. Students develop their industrial relations skills in advocacy and negotiation simulations, and their analytical and problem-solving skills through their contribution to the analysis of contemporary industrial relations issues.
Content
- The nature of industrial relations and relevant theory
- The development and evolution of industrial relations
- Current and changing forms and functions of key industrial relations stakeholders
- Situational factors impacting on strategic choice in industrial relations
- Key aspects of Australian industrial relations processes and regulations
- Incidence and causes of industrial conflict and stoppages
- Impact of different organisational forms on industrial relations
- Industrial relations practices including joint consultation, negotiations and advocacy
Assessment
Assessment Item 1: Report (Individual)
| Objective(s): | This addresses Subject Learning Objectives 1 and 3 |
| Weighting: | 50 |
Assessment Item 2: Negotiation Exercise (Group)
| Objective(s): | This addresses Subject Learning Objective 2 |
| Weighting: | 30 |
Assessment Item 3: Case Studies
| Objective(s): | This addresses Subject Learning Objectives 3 and 4. |
| Weighting: | 20 |
Minimum requirements
To pass the subject, students need to achieve at least 50% of the total marks.
Required texts
Bray, M., Waring, P. and Cooper, R. (2011), Employent Relations: Theory and Practice, McGraw-Hill, Sydney.
Recommended texts
Price, R. (2007), Employment Law in Principle, Thompson Law Book Company, Sydney.
Journal of Industrial Relations (2011), Vol. 53, No. 3 (Annual Review Issue).
References
Alexander, R. and Lewer, J. (2004), Understanding Australian Industrial Relations, Harcourt Brace, Sydney, 5th Edition.
Burgess, J. and Macdonald, D. (2003), Developments in Enterprise Bargaining in Australia, Tertiary Press, Croydon Victoria.
CCH (2009), Australian Master Human Resource Guide 2009, CCH Australia Ltd, Sydney.
Dabscheck, B. (1995), The Struggle for Australian Industrial Relations Oxford University Press, Melbourne.
Easson, M. and Shaw, J. (1990), Transforming Industrial Relations, Lloyd Ross Forum, Labour Council of NSW, Pluto Press, Leichardt NSW.
REFERENCE JOURNALS:
Employment Relations Record
International Employment Relations Review
The Journal of Industrial Relations (658.306/14)
New Zealand Journal of Industrial Relations
British Journal of Industrial Relations (331.05/4)
Industrial Relations (University of California) (331.05/6)
International Journal of Employment Studies
Other resources
www.australianbusiness.com.au/abl/irdoc.htm
http://au.fullcoverage.yahoo.com/fcAUNZ/Industrial_Relations_News
