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 introduces students to foundational concepts of employment relations within the context of the Australian industrial relations system. Core questions include—What is employment relations? Why do some companies have good employment relations and others do not? What constitutes good employment relations? These questions are addressed from the perspective of the worker, the manager and the government. In addition, students consider the nature of work, the relationship between employer and employee, the role of management, the role of trade unions, as well as exploring areas of conflict and cooperation. These concepts are fundamental to an understanding of employment relations both at the workplace and at the broader national level within any country. The unit also provides students with a basic introduction to the workings of the Australian industrial relations system. Students learn about the formal institutions as well as examine contemporary employment relations policies and issues. International students are encouraged to apply their learning about employment relations concepts to their home country context, should they so prefer.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) articulate the interests of workers, unions, managers, employers and the state within the workplace and the broader environment; (2) analyse the complexity of the relationship between employer and employee; (3) identify the reasons why governments take an interest in workplace relations and what institutions they create to regulate employment relations issues; (4) analyse factors that lead to cooperation, conflict and collective action in workplace relations; (5) debate contemporary developments in the Australian employment relations system, by applying concepts from the unit to practical contexts and issues; and (6) develop written and oral communication skills.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) seminar participation; (2) group project; and (3) individual assignments. 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 Renata Casado
Contact hours
lectures/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.