Overview

This module will give you a basic introduction to the study of business and management. You’ll learn the different types of businesses and organisations, as well as how to finance a start-up. You'll also look at essential human resource management functions and activities in order to give you an understanding of important issues surrounding people in the workplace. The module illustrates different approaches to management and explains decision-making processes. It will give you an appreciation of the current business context and the challenges facing managers today.

The main topics covered are:

a) Types of business, ownership and organisation; starting a business and the ways in which a business may be financed

b) Defining and classifying business organisations, contrasting and comparing organisations in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors

c) Roles and function of human resource management; various approaches to and styles of management and development of different theories of management , and managing change and resolving conflict in the workplace

d) Issues around business ethics, corporate social responsibility and sustainability

Assessment Strategy

Threshold (40-49% / D- to D+) Has shown knowledge of key areas and principles but there is a weakness in understanding the subject area. Work shows limited evidence of background study and research. Answer is only poorly focussed on question and with some irrelevant material and poor structure. Some arguments are presented but lack coherence.

Satisfactory (50–59% / C- to C+) Has shown knowledge of the key areas and principles and the main elements of the subject area are understood. Work shows limited evidence of background study and research. Answer is focussed on question but also with some irrelevant material and weakness in structure. Arguments are presented but lack coherence.

Good (60-69% / B- to B+) Has shown a strong knowledge and understands most of the subject area. Work shows evidence of background study and research. Answer is focussed, has a good structure, and contains coherent arguments.

Excellent (70%-100% / A- to A*) Has shown a comprehensive knowledge and detailed understanding of the subject area. Work shows extensive background study and research. Answer is highly focussed, well-structured and contains logically presented and defended arguments.

Learning Outcomes

• Describe the challenges and responsibilities of managing a business.

• Explain the basic role and functions of Human Resources within organisations.

• Explain the different types of businesses and the ways in which businesses are managed and financed.