The purpose of this course is to examine and understand theory and empirical research in the field of Human Resource Management (HRM). We will cover a blend of classic and contemporary theory and empirical research related to the prevailing theories and findings in various areas of HRM. The major objective of this course is to provide seminar members with an overview of some important areas in the academic HRM literature and to increase their understanding of HRM can be leveraged to the welfare of the organization and its workforce.

COURSE OUTLINE

Module 1: Strategic issues in HRM

• Seminar 1: Theoretical perspectives on strategic HRM
• Seminar 2: Firm performance and HRM
• Seminar 3: Organizational change and HRM
• Seminar 4: Digitalisation, AI and HRM
• Seminar 5: Globalism, multinational enterprises and HRM
• Seminar 6: Work-related health and HRM

Module 2: Strategic HRM in practice

• Seminar 7: Workforce planning, recruitment and selection
• Seminar 8: Motivation and control
• Seminar 9: HRM implementation and devolution
• Seminar 10: HR differentiation
• Seminar 11: HRM in the public sector

TEACHING METHODS AND LEARNING ACTIVITIES

• Each session includes discussion of 3–4 key academic papers and/or practical case materials.
• Students will rotate as session leaders, responsible for:
  • Preparing a structured debate (theoretical critique, implications, integration).
  • Designing and facilitating a short in-class activity (e.g., case analysis, debate, simulation).
• One student per session will also act as a “research scout”, identifying and briefing the group on a recent relevant article (published within the last 3 years).

ASSESSMENT AND STUDENT EVALUATION

• Participation and engagement (30%): Active contribution to seminar discussions and peer learning.
• Learning notes (30%): Weekly 1–2 page reflections synthesizing insights from readings and class debates.
• Session leadership & research briefing (30%): Evaluation based on clarity, critical depth, and facilitation.
• Final integration paper (10%): A short conceptual essay (max 1500 words) linking course themes to the student’s research interests.

Attendance is compulsory; active and critical engagement is essential to individual and collective learning.

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