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BA 453/553
HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
OREGON STATE
UNIVERSITY
[Schedule]
[Assignments]
[Exams] [Research
topics] [PowerPoint] [Grades]
[Week 1] [Week 2] [Week 3] [Week 4] [Week 5]
[Week 6] [Week 7] [Week
8] [Week 9] [Week 10]
Instructor: Mike Cieri
Email: mike.cieri@bus.oregonstate.edu
Office: BEXL 342 Hours: TU
Classes: TU
Overview
There is a growing realization, supported by research of high performance firms, that the effective deployment and management of human resources can strengthen strategic performance and enhance competitive advantage. HRM is no longer the sole purview of HRM specialists, but it is a vital aspect of each manager’s job. This course provides an analytical framework in which students (future managers) can understand basic HRM concepts and learn to apply HRM methods and related skills to strengthen human performance, promote “fair play”, and insure legal and ethical HRM practices.
Required HRM Text,
Required Text: Gary Dessler, A Framework for Human
Resource Management (4th Ed., 2006), Prentice Hall. You might decide to purchase this textbook
in an electronic format rather than a printed format (to save some money). If
so, then this link will take you to the publisher’s website location with more
information about this alternative: http://vig.prenhall.com/catalog/academic/product/0,1144,0131886800,00.html Required
The Classroom
Classes will be conducted in a seminar format. There will be short lectures regarding key
HRM concepts, interactive discussions, small group exercises and/or
presentations along with guest speakers.
It is my intentions to facilitate an interactive experience to enhance
the learning experience rather than deliver a boring lecture. Because such
classroom discussion is a vital part of your learning, you need to come to
class fully prepared to engage fellow students (and me) and assume full
responsibility for your role is this learning experience. It is especially important to read the posted
materials for each week. I expect your
presentations and interactions to be proactive, informed and thoughtful. Critical thinking is essential to this
process and I would expect you to challenge ideas (attack ideas, not
people). Prior to each class, you will
need to: (1) study (not just
read) the assigned chapter and
Learning Objectives/Outcomes
- Basic knowledge of fundamental HRM concepts and methods.
- Initial competency in HRM tools and skills appropriate for non-HRM managers.
- Experience in confronting key HRM concerns and issues in real life situations.
- Confidence in initially assuming the HRM responsibilities in a manager’s role.
Course
Requirements and Grading
Your final grade in the course shall be based on the following:
- 25% Class Contribution (Self Evaluation due on the last day of class)
- 25% First Exam (during 4th week; see class schedule for date)
- 25% Second Exam (during 9th week; see class schedule for date)
- 25% Research Paper (topic declaration due on 4/25; papers due during class on 5/16
- Graduate students shall be required to conduct more extensive research & provide a stronger level of leadership and/or facilitation in small group discussions; consult with the instructor during the first week of class.
- No Surprises: My standard of excellence for an A grade is very high and rigorous. Grading is NOT based on a curve, but on absolute criteria (see below for more details).
Class Contribution
Your personal contribution to the class is graded because of the interactive nature of the learning model. My expectations and the criteria for class contribution/participation are delineated on the posted Class Participation Evaluation Sheet. The depth and quality of your remarks in class discussions and group presentations shall be considered. Class participation also requires you to actively participate in a Research & Presentation Team of 5-6 students. Check the posted schedule under “Assignments” for the 3 topic assignments; power point presentations are encouraged. Absences will directly affect your class participation grade; it is unnecessary to contact me if you have an absence unless you are missing an exam. You should select someone on your Team to maintain a record to class attendance, team participation, and contributions to team presentations. Your final contribution grade shall be determined by my weekly observations, but I invite your self evaluation and it should be turned in on the last day of class on the posted form. Each team will assemble and review the completed forms, and hand them in along with the Team record of attendance and contribution.
Examinations
Exams shall test your HRM knowledge of all of the text, posted materials, and classroom lecture materials. The exams shall consist of 50 multiple-choice objective questions (2 points each) The first exam is on 4/25 and shall cover chapters 1-5; the second exam on 5/30 and cover chapters 6-10 plus Module A. Unless you have a bona fide emergency and obtain advanced approval directly from me prior to class via email, there will be no make-up exams; if there is a make-up exam, the score shall be discounted by 10 points. Sample exams are posted. Grading is not based on a curve, but on an absolute standard: 90+ = A; 80+ = B; 70+ = C; and 60+ = D.
Research Paper
Research papers provide an opportunity to explore a particular HRM topic or issue in considerable depth. Therefore, it is essential that your research question or topic be narrowly focused to facilitate in-depth exploration and analysis. Students have three research options: (1) literary research; (2) field research; or (3) a combination of both. These options shall be discussed in more detail in class. A list of sample research topics is posted. For your reference, papers graded as “A” from previous classes are available for review in my office prior to the topic declaration on 4/25. You are required to submit a brief written proposal to me via email declaring your research topic and method no later than 4/25 for my approval. Your paper should be at least 7 and not more than 10 double spaced pages, not including the title page and bibliography. The format for the research paper must be selected by you. Papers are due no later than the end of class on 5/16, but may be turned in earlier. Late papers will not be accepted unless there is a bona fide emergency and advance approval is secured; in those cases, the grade will be discounted by a full grade. Research integrity shall be monitored. During the last week of class, some students will be selected to make a brief presentation to the class regarding their research.
Academic dishonesty
Any case of academic dishonesty will result in a grade of “F” for the course. This action is allowed by the Academic Regulations and Procedures. I expect you to know and understand these policies and regulations.
Guest Speakers
Through out the term guest speakers will attend classes to present their specialty in HRM and respond to students questions. Guests most likely will include a Business Executive, Health Benefits Executive, Labor and Workers’ Compensation Attorney, Training & Development consultant, and others.
Office Hours
I live and work in
Commitment
My personal commitment to you is that I will work hard to enhance your learning in this class because I believe that HRM is vital in today’s business world. At the same time, I cannot make you learn! The quality of your education is ultimately your choice. The classes are interactive, so your preparation and participation are critical.