WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS

 

Case Studies:  You are responsible for completing the assigned readings and additional materials given during the class prior to the class meeting.  Questions and/or cases will be given during the class sessions and it is your responsibility to think critically about them before coming to class.  This allows class sessions to be used for clarifying and extending ideas presented in the readings.

 

There will be weekly discussions consisting of 2-3 questions from cases handled out in class.  Before class you will need to read the case study.  Type your responses to the questions and prepare to discuss your answers with your group.  After discussing your responses with your group, you will turn in your paper for points.  There will be no late papers accepted..

 

Individual Assignments:  Individual papers will help to apply topic materials.  Three papers are required.  One paper is required from each of the three sections of Decenzo and Robbins.  Each write-up will be due on the day the chapter is discussed in class.  Individual papers will be 2-3 pages in length, double-spaced.  Assignments are due at the beginning of class.  The topics are chosen from the Enhancing Your Writing Skills section at the end of each chapter.

 

Section 1:  Choose one question from the following options:      

Chapter 1 – Page 29, question #3

                        Chapter 2 – Page 57, question #1

                        Chapter 3 – Page 86, question #2

                        Chapter 4 – Page 119, question #2

                        Chapter 5 – Page 145, question #3

Section 2:  Choose one question from the following options:

                        Chapter 6 – Page 171, question #2

                        Chapter 7 – Page 203, question #2

                        Chapter 8 – Page 233, question #3

                        Chapter 9 – Page 262, question #3

                        Chapter 10 – Page 295, question #3

Section 3:  Choose one question from the following options:

                        Chapter 11 – Page 322, question #1

                        Chapter 12 – Page 351, question #2

                        Chapter 13 – Page 385, question #2

                        Chapter 14 – Page 410, question #1

                        Chapter 15 – Page 441, question #2

 

 Group Project:  One of the central parts of the course will be the group project.  The group project involves applying some of the HR principles and procedures you have learned to an actual organizational setting.  Four to five (depending on size of class) will form a group and discuss HR issues throughout the semester.

 

As a group you will find one organization in the surrounding Sacramento area for your project focus.  Using the information in Chapter 2 (Decenzo & Robbins) (Page 39 Exhibit 2-1), choose one area of study:  1) staffing, 2) training and development, 3) motivation, or 4) maintenance.  Your project will consist of three sections:

 

  1. Conduct an interview with an HR specialist for your area of study then write a position description to determine the main task requirements of the job and the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform these tasks.
  2. Provide a needs assessment of the organization that includes Mission, Strategic Direction, Business Outlook and particular issues for your organization.  This section should include information from your interview as well as outside research.  Citations presented in APA style.
  3. Present final recommendations for changing HRM practices in this organization.

At the end of the semester your group will hand in the final paper.  The final paper should be 10-12 typed pages in length (double-spaced).  All members of the group will present overall findings for the chosen company.