This capstone module addresses the need for learning and development (L&D) to be a strategic business function in order to enhance both individual performance and organisational success. Drawing upon knowledge acquired from a range of other modules (eg. Introduction to HRM, Organisational Behaviour; Strategic HRM and Strategic Management) students will learn how to provide development opportunities that have been carefully analysed, designed, delivered and evaluated, supported by an understanding of learning theory. The module will also enable students to contribute to the development of coaching and mentoring activities within organisations.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Each of the eleven curriculum topics will be addressed in one, two hour tutor-led session, including practical exercises and group discussions, supported by materials drawn from textbooks, journals and websites and those provided on Canvas.
Alternate weeks will be used for a workshop-style session in which the theories, models and concepts associated with each topic will be further investigated by the students and applied to their group coursework project. This will facilitate their understanding of each topic through linking theory to practice.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | 22 x 3 hour sessions | 66 |
| Guided independent study | 234 | |
| Study abroad / placement | ||
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
Working in small groups, students will be briefed as a team of L&D consultants, to prepare the analysis, design, delivery, and evaluation of one of a range of given L&D interventions for a particular organisation (eg. a time management course for staff at a medical centre; team building for a large IT consultancy; a coaching programme for line managers).
This coursework is designed as synoptic assessment to encourage students to combine elements of their learning from different parts of a programme and to show their accumlated knowledge and understanding on the subject area.
Feed-forward opportunities will be achieved as alternate weeks' workshop sessions offer immediate use of formative feedback from both tutor and peers, as the groups consider the application of each topic to their coursework project. Thus they will work on and build their assessment throughout the module, in preparation for submission of the final summative coursework: a written group report and individual reflective essay.
In addition, each group will present its L&D intervention to a panel comprising, variously, academic staff, senior HR professionals, alumni and representatives of CIPD. Normally, a prize will be awarded to the group considered by the panel to have addressed the coursework brief most successfully.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1) formulate plans for L&D provision which integrate with organisational business strategy and wider HR policies and practices | In-class activities (formative) Coursework (summative) |
| 2) promote L&D provision which will demonstrate added value for the organisation thereby driving sustained business performance | In-class activities (formative) Coursework (summative) |
| 3) appreciate the roles and responsibilities of various individuals in meeting L&D needs | In-class activities (formative) Coursework (summative) |
| 4) understand learning theories and their influence on the identification of L&D needs and the design of L&D interventions | In-class activities (formative) Coursework (summative) |
| 5) demonstrate awareness of the application and use of a range of delivery methods and activities | In-class activities (formative) Coursework (summative) |
| 6) contribute to and support the provision of coaching and mentoring activities within organisations | In-class activities (formative) Coursework (summative) |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Report | Coursework 1 | 50% |
| Reflective Essay | Coursework 2 | 30% |
| Group Presentation to panel | Practical Exam | 20% |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any major assessment category is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.
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