James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2021

BX3051 - Employment Relations

Subject Description

This subject introduces students to the importance of employee relations in the workplace and how they contribute to integrate employers and employees' interests in a way that promotes and balances efficiency, equity and fairness. It concerns the relationship between management and employees and assists students in realising and understanding the importance of institutions and processes of employee relations, including laws, and social and political processes. Through this, students will gain knowledge and understanding of the organisation and behaviour of people at work, in particular the role of key players and institutional parties such as government, employer associations and unions upon management and employees. In addition, students will develop awareness of the implications of change in the workforce, the nature of the workforce, collective and individual bargaining and assess how these affect management and employees.

Learning Outcomes

• explain the role, function and influence of key players in employment relations
• develop a critical appreciation of the theories and concepts relating to contemporary employment relations
• analyse, evaluate and engage in discussions on selected topics in employment relations
• appraise the fundamental nature of employment relations

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Critical Analysis - (60%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Availabilities