MSc Human Resource Management (International Development) / Course details

Organisations of any type can only advance their capabilities if human resource planning and development strategies encompass learning at individual, group and institutional levels. This Unit offers a unique conceptual and learner centred approach for students to understand how this challenge can be met. 

The unit creates advanced understanding on the concepts, approaches, strategies and methodologies by which all types of organisation can pursue human resource planning and development for enhanced performance and for building talent.

• Describe the influence of the labour market and the concept of value added in respect of building the required capabilities in an organisation;
• Understand supply and demand concepts in balancing labour force skills in respect of needs;
• Appreciate the theories and approaches in employee resourcing and development that contribute to sustainable staff performance and the growth of human potential;
• Understand how organisations can re-conceptualise their strategic decision making in order to enhance skills and contributions in a performance led and cost- effective manner;
• Identify the stages following recruitment that consolidate personal development and commitment to an organisation;
• Appreciate the contribution of a range of theories relevant to learning and development amongst individuals and groups;
• Describe the roles of practitioners, managers, HR partners and learners in meeting transformational change needs in organisations;
• Understand key methodologies employed in human resource development.

• Discuss the distinction between traditional approaches for building skills and self- organised approaches to development;
• Reflect on own development needs and evaluate the criteria for self- appraisal of skill demands on entry to an organisation;
• Discuss how interactive processes can advance problem solving in a cross- cultural group context;
• Reflect on a systems approach in development that effectively supports organisational processes;
• Elicit the criteria governing the choice between the role of organisation led development activities and self- organised learning in enhancing contribution and performance;

• Apply a framework in organisations for human resource planning
• Advise on the stages and design characteristics of learning centred methodologies for skills enhancement;
• Utilise presentation skills in advising on a human resource development plan;
• Contribute as a member of a team responsible for HRD;
• Elicit information on learning needs within a systemic view of organisational processes.

• Build personal skills that enhance continuous learning through self-awareness, reflection and actions;
• Apply communication skills towards a ‘community of practice’ in organisational learning and development;
• Exercise a mind set on the systems nature of organisations if human resource development is to be maximised.

Feedback provided on assignment plans utilising group format.

Written feedback on assignments in standard format to students via Blackboard in specified timescale, with following verbal comment as necessary when requested.

The textbook that supports learning on this Unit is Carbery R. and Cross C. (2015) Human Resource Development, London: Palgrave.

The complete reading list is under review and will be available at Unit commencement.