critical essay human resource management

Critical Essay Using your existing knowledge of the relevant academic literatures and a contemporary case study of your choice: Critically discuss the extent to which Human Resource Management can improve organisational performance? Generic Assessment Marking Criteria You will be marked according to five criteria: • Quality of Presentation • Understanding and use of Theory • Quality of Analysis • Structure and Argument • Conclusions The examiners will be looking for the following elements for each of these criteria. Presentation • All material is thoroughly and correctly referenced. • Citations are given in the Harvard format, unless specifically specified otherwise in the assignment brief. • Direct quotations from sources are referenced with page numbers. • Appropriate use has been made of tables, diagrams, graphs and pictures. • The use of formatting (line spacing, font, justified margins etc) is consistent throughout. • The text is clear and readable, without typographic errors and spelling mistakes. • The assignment is within the maximum word length suggested. • The bibliography contains only the works cited in the assignment, is presented in author alphabetical order and is complete, accurate, and consistently formatted. Theory • Evidence of wider reading i.e. not relying on a textbook or single text source, but engaging with specialist texts, journal articles and reports. • A demonstration of an understanding and awareness of a range of theoretical positions or technical options. • The ability to place a particular text’s argument within a range of positions evident in the literature and to recognise its strengths and limitations as an explanatory framework. • Direct quotes, paraphrasing or other evidence of active engagement with theory and/or technique is apparent throughout the assignment. Analysis • The assignment demonstrates an ability to understand different perspectives i.e. the student can evaluate different options, engage critically with theory and practice and can justify their analysis above other available solutions or viewpoints. • The analysis results from the use of judgement and discernment in selecting theory and applying it to the situation or problem. • The selection of techniques and viewpoints are justified by the problem or issue outlined. • Reflection and observation are integrated in the analysis in an appropriate way i.e. a supported argument illustrated with observation rather than a statement of opinion. Structure and Argument • An essay assignment will normally include an introduction, several sub-titled sections in the main body, a conclusion and a bibliography. Alternative formats may be specified by the assignment brief and, if so, have been used. • A coherent argument is evident, which clearly links the different elements of the assignment together and leads the reader through to a justifiable conclusion. • The argument is logically constructed with each section building on the insights of preceding sections i.e. different perspectives are not simply thrown together without an understanding of how they contribute to the overall argument presented. • Theory is integrated into the analytical and/or practical elements of the assignment where appropriate • Meaning is not obscured by poor grammar, paragraph or sentence construction.