CEM205: Human Resource Management

Module code: CEM205

Module provider: School of Construction Management and Engineering, School of Built Environment

Credits: 10

Level: 7

When you’ll be taught: Semester 2

Module convenor: Dr Florence Phua , email: f.phua@reading.ac.uk

Pre-requisite module(s): This module is only available to flexible modular students who enrolled before January 2023. (Open)

Co-requisite module(s):

Pre-requisite or Co-requisite module(s):

Module(s) excluded:

Placement information: na

Academic year: 2025/6

Available to visiting students: No

Talis reading list: Yes

Last updated: 12 May 2025

Overview

Module aims and purpose

Effective human resource management (HRM) contributes significantly to overall organizational performance. People are a key source of a firm’s competitive advantage and so, the processes, practices, and implications of HRM must be considered seriously. However, due to a range of practical pressures and factors that are either associated with or embedded within the industry, the vital role of HRM in construction is often overlooked.  The module will cover the essential elements of HRM and their implementation in the UK and international construction industry. It draws substantially on HRM concepts, theories and practices from different industries to facilitate understanding of the issues and concerns that are applicable to both construction and non-construction firms. It will explain and clarify how an informed, well-structured and participative approach to HRM can deliver substantial benefits to all stakeholders: employers and employees as well as their shareholders and clients.

The aims of this module are:

• To provide you with an appreciation of the characteristics and practices of the construction industry and the role of HRM in both project- and non-project based organizations
• To introduce you to current perspectives on key HRM concepts
• To provide you with an understanding of the theories and practical considerations of HRM and its implications for construction firm performance and strategic positioning
• To enable you to competently apply germane HRM concepts and theories to complete module assignment

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, it is expected that students will be able to:

1. Understand the theory, core processes and practices of HRM and gain an appreciation of their impact on organizational and individual performance;
2. Understand the complexities and implications of effective HR strategies for organizational management;
3. Critically evaluate the principles upon which different HRM practices and policies are developed in different organizational and industry contexts

Module content

The outline content for the module is indicated below.

• HRM in the construction industry context
• Principles and theories of HRM
• Processes and practices of HRM
• Strategic HRM and future development
• Other HRM-related issues

Structure

Teaching and learning methods

A variety of teaching and learning methods including lectures, seminars, case studies and interactive in-class discussions will be used. A particular emphasis will be placed on the critical evaluation of accepted HRM concepts and principles in both domestic and international contexts. Contributors and guest speakers from academia and industry who specialise in HRM will be invited to contribute to the module in order to enhance your learning experience and to broaden your HRM perspectives.

Study hours

At least 24 hours of scheduled teaching and learning activities will be delivered in person, with the remaining hours for scheduled and self-scheduled teaching and learning activities delivered either in person or online. You will receive further details about how these hours will be delivered before the start of the module.