PROGRAMME: MBA

MODULE: HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

ASSIGNMENT GUIDELINES
Dear Student
Listed below are assignment guidelines:
The assignment consists of 4 questions, all of which must be answered.
All the questions require appropriate research and critical responses. In general, students need
to analyse each question carefully in order to ascertain exactly what is required. Students must
then respond to these requirements in a logical and coherent manner, taking care to
acknowledge all sources of information and ensuring that the question has been answered.
Question 1 Human Resource Planning
There are three parts to this question.
The first part deals with the purpose of human resource planning. A thorough discussion is
required of what HR planning is and its function(s), including why it is necessary and important.
The second part requires a discussion of the problems associated with human resource
planning. Again a thorough discussion is required of the problems HR managers are confronted
with in attempting HR planning.
The third part requires a consideration of the ways in which the identified problems associated
with HR planning may be resolved or attempt to be resolved.


Question 2 Labour Relations
2.1 Students are required to describe the role(s) of each of the participants in the tripartite
relationship. The answer should begin with an explanation of this relationship and an
identification of the participants. This can then be followed by the description of the
role(s) played by each participant.
2.2 Students are required to provide a comprehensive overview of the three approaches to
labour or employment relations. These approaches should be identified and described
so that the difference(s) between them is apparent.

Question 3 Selection Processes
Questions 3.1 and 3.2 require an evaluation. There are no right or wrong answers here as a
result. However, it is important that student responses to these question contain a justification/
explanation for the viewpoint stated.
In question 3.3 a discussion is required of what a behavioural interview is and the type of
questions that can be asked at such an interview. Students should not simply provide a list of
questions. However, sample questions can be used to explain the notion of a behavioural
interview.

Question 4 Performance Appraisal
The three sub questions in this question must be answered after a consideration of performance
management and the role of performance appraisals. The caselet highlights the human factor in
performance appraisals.
In question 4.1 students must discuss the impact of the appraisal decisions taken by the
supervisor.
In question 4.2, students must recommend what can be done to reduce the negative impact
outlined in question 4.1. Such recommendations must be justified.
In question 4.3, the forced distribution method must be explained before an evaluation can be
made as to whether this will overcome the problem the supervisor created or not.
Students should ensure that they adhere to the specified formatting guidelines and the word
limit. A minimum of eight sources of information must be utilised and these should not all be
electronic.
Please note that the total marks for both questions 3 and 4 are 20 each (and not 25) and the
assignment will be marked out of 90 marks. The result will be recorded as a percentage.
I take the opportunity to wish you well with your studies.
Any questions can be directed to the below contact person

Mr Osman Seedat
031-3044626
studentsupport@regent.ac.za