• The national business system of the country in the context of the international economy. • Corporate governance issues (such as typical form of company ownership). • The role and impact of multinationals • Role of the state and law in governing the employment relationship. • The role of trade unions and employer associations in regulating employment relations. • Workplace employment relations – including workplace communication, information and consultation arrangements; the role of trade unions. • HRM issues and challenges – this focus on specific issues, provided context is given; for example, skill shortages and training, reward systems, performance management. The analysis will be expected to draw on a range of literature,. In particular, you should look for and cite: • high quality academic journals, • authoritative sources of data (international organisations, such as the ILO, UNCTAD etc.). Use harvard referencing system The essay should not be simply descriptive and should not try and ‘sell’ the country! It should include some reference to other countries by way of comparison. The analysis should also draw on academic theories and models to help categorise the system, and explain the forces acting on it and within it. This will also mean that you must be able to look at these theories critically, and highlight their strengths, weaknesses and evaluate their usefulness. Assessment criteria and marking standards for the coursework The following criteria are taken into account in marking the coursework. Application and critical treatment of academic and research material. Have you used appropriate, good quality literature (academic and research material) in your analysis? Have you used good quality academic sources to find and evaluate any relevant models and theories? Are there differing points of view – either in the academic literature or in current policy debates – about key features of the system you are researching? Have you dealt with these, and attempted to make your own evaluation, based on evidence? 30% Depth and breadth of the analysis, and effective comparison For example, does your analysis include some consideration of the main headings required for the assignment, with some issues considered in greater depth? Have you explained and justified your choice of factors for more detailed explanation? Have you tried to evaluate the significance of the material you have discovered – for example, by comparing it with data from another country? 30% Integration of the material in the assignment. Does your analysis, use of models and evidence constitute a convincing and persuasive piece of writing in which sections fit well together and research material builds into an effective analysis? 20% Written style, referencing, punctuation, spelling and grammar. 10% Presentation 10% Grade Standard of work ³ 40% < 50% The question is answered to a basic level and is largely descriptive. Analysis only includes obvious elements. The essay is structured using satisfactory academic practices including grammar and structure. The range of sources is narrow or of inappropriate quality. ³ 50% < 60% The answer embodies a reasonable level of research and analysis, applying good quality data and using academic models from good quality sources. The essay is well structured with accurate use of technical terminology and grammar ³ 60% < 70% Analysis is developed to a high standard and includes evaluation, insight, justification and critical thinking. A good level of preparation will be evident, with links to other areas. Use of technical terms will be accurate and fluent and the essay of a high standard. The range of sources is wide and of consistently high quality. ³ 70% The answer reflects excellent understanding of the subject and includes detailed analysis, evaluation and justification based on wide research. The range of sources is extensive, with reference to demanding literature of consistently high quality. Criteria Max. Mark 1. Choice and justification of research topic. 15 2. Statement of a research question/hypothesis and research objectives. 15 3 Critical literature review. 30 4 Choice and justification of research methods . 20 5. Timetable and research plan. 10 6. Presentation, grammar and written style, referencing. 10 TOTAL MARKS 100