Human Resource Management

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2015:

170 hours.

Students must be able to perform word processing, use Excel spreadsheets, and have a reasonable understanding of the Internet and the University’s Learning Management System.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon
academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation
in the University's programs. This course requires all students to enrol in subjects where they
must actively and safely contribute to field excursions and laboratory activities. Students who
feel their disability will impact on meeting this requirement are encouraged to discuss this matter
with the Subject Coordinator and Disability Liaison http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/
students email: disability-liaison@unimelb.edu.au

Managers in agribusiness in both small -medium enterprises and larger organisations require an understanding of the strategic and operational role of human resource management (HRM). It has long been recognised that the effective deployment and development of human resources constitutes one of the key areas of competitive advantage for modern organisations.

The subject introduces and evaluates models and approaches for the performance of key HRM functions. These include human resources planning; job analysis and design; recruitment and selection; managing diversity and work-life balance; performance management; training and skills development and occupational health and safety management, as applicable to agribusiness scenarios.

The subject builds on the Leadership subject (NRMT90017) in that the potential contribution of HRM to organisational development and improving organisational effectiveness is discussed.

The objective of this subject is to extend the participant’s ability to:

• understand the strategic and operational roles of human resource management (HRM) in agrifoods/agribusiness.
• distinguish between the roles of the HRM specialist and the role of the agrifoods/ agribusiness line manager in performing operational and strategic roles.
• evaluate different approaches to organising key HRM functions (job analysis, HR planning, recruitment and selection, induction and orientation, performance appraisal, training and development, occupational health and safety compliance and administration).
• recognise the key features of the Australian industrial relations system and be able to identify the sources and terms and conditions for relevant employment categories in agrifoods/ agribusiness.
• appreciate the role of HR managers in organisational improvement efforts with a focus on team development and management of issues such as change, conflict and creativity.

• Essay, (1,500 words) due in week 5, 30%;
• Case Study Report (2,500 words) due in week 11, 50%;
• On-line discussion participation due throughout the semester, 25%.

*Online discussion is an integral component of this subject. It is a hurdle requirement that a minimum grade of 50% is achieved in this component.

Kramer, R., Bartram, T., De Cieri (2013), Human Resource Management in Australia. 5th Edition, McGraw-Hill, Australia.

This textbook is available through the University Bookroom.

Further reading material will be available online.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

It is expected students will develop:

• awareness of and ability to utilise appropriate communication technology and methods for the storage, management and analysis of data.
• highly developed computer-based skills to allow for effective on-line learning and communication.
• ability to collaborate, exchange ideas and debate across on-line learning platforms.
• ability to plan, use time effectively and manage small projects.
• appreciation of social and cultural diversity from a regional to a global context.