Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit considers debate on the global 'convergence' of employment relations practices across national boundaries. Globalisation has had a significant impact on national employment relations, causing changes to the role of the state, employers, unions, and to the subsequent status of workers. The unit discusses common global forces that have shaped employment relations (trade and relocation of work, corporate and workplace restructuring, ideological and policy transformation) and key features of employment relations systems in four regions: North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. The evolution of employment relations and its current state in these regions is analysed taking into account conflict at the workplace and dispute resolution procedures, regulatory institutions, employee participation, and the role of unions and employers.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 core unit in the Human Resource Management; Work and Employment Relations major sequences
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate a critical understanding of core concepts in the scholarly literature on international and comparative employment relations; (2) demonstrate an informed understanding of broad patterns of employment relations parties, practices, and institutions, in a number of key countries; (3) demonstrate the ability to engage in comparative analysis; (4) critically reflect on learning experiences and the application of new knowledge to various topical issues relevant to international employment relations; (5) demonstrate advanced research, essay and report writing, and verbal presentation skills; and (6) apply ethical and cultural awareness in an international context, and an understanding of comparative institutional development, to relevant lecture content, discussions in seminars, and assigned readings.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) individual essay; (2) tutorial activities; and (3) final examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Michael Gillan
Unit rules
Prerequisites
EMPL2202 Australian Employment Relations
Incompatibility
EMPL2241 International Employment Relations
Contact hours
lectures/tutorials/seminars/workshops: up to 3 hours per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.