This module introduces students to the concept of learning and explores key theoretical debates in the field. It moves on to examine the implications of different approaches to learning for employee development and HRD practice by analysing, through specific examples, their impact at individual and organisational levels.

On completion of this module students will be able to:

• Understand and critique theories of learning and the ways in which they can be applied to employee development
• Analyse and critique theories of workplace and work-related learning
• Reflect on the role of the training and HR practitioner

This module provides an understanding of the organisational context within which HRM and training operate, and the constraints that act on those responsible for their implementation. It explores organisational theory and looks at the implications for the trainer and for those in management development. Finally, it considers the contribution that HRM makes to an organisation.

On completion of this module students will be able to:

• Situate the study of HRM within the context of the employment relationship
• Better understand HRM within the context of organisational theory and of the ways in which organisations change and evolve
• Critically examine contemporary theories of HRM
• Understand current trends in labour management in the light of current HR theory

This module introduces the process of social science research and the fundamental debates pertaining to the philosophy of social science. The module also provides research methods training in a range of techniques that students will be able to apply as they move on to the dissertation stage of the programme.

On completion of this module students will have:

• An understanding of the practical, ethical and theoretical processes underpinning social science research
• The ability to select appropriate research methods
• An understanding of the issues relating to the design, construction, implementation and analysis of quantitative and qualitative research

The dissertation provides students with the opportunity to examine a topic of their choice that is relevant to the course. The dissertation should combine a literature review with empirical research and students will be allocated a supervisor who can advise them during the process. In designing, conduction and writing up the research, students will develop core social research and project management skills.

On completion students will be able to:

• Formulate a research problem and design a research study
• Identify and use appropriate research methods
• Report research results and present conclusions