Report Structure

The report should be broadly structured as follows in terms of key sections, focus and word estimations: (Note - it does not follow a standard inductive or deductive report structure)

1. Introduction (5 marks; approx. 200 words)

• Outline the context, focus and importance of the report - i.e. the issue selected

• Rationale for selecting the two countries chosen (i.e. why this issue is significant to both countries)

• Outline the structure of the report

2. Discussion & Analysis (70 marks; approx. 2000-2500 words)

The discussion and analysis section should provide the following:

• 2.1 Discussion of the phenomenon/issue (working hours) (approx. 500 w) including what the phenomenon/issue is (definition of relevant concepts), an overview of the prevalence of the issue globally, any other relevant background information, and why it is important from an ER/HRM perspective.

• 2.2 Discussion of the phenomenon/issue & trends in country 1 (approx. 500 w); a more focused discussion of the issue for a specific country including the prevalence of the issue, current trends/changes over time, what responses have been implemented and/or suggested, why, and a comment how effective these have been.

• 2.3 Discussion of phenomenon/issue & trends in country 2 (approx. 500 w); as above

• 2.4 Comparative analysis of phenomenon and trends across the selected countries, drawing on key theory/theoretical frameworks (approx. 500-800 w)

• In comparing the phenomenon/issue across countries, consider how it is similar and/or different across the two countries/national contexts selected and why, drawing on relevant theoretical/conceptual frameworks (e.g. VoC, political economy, working time configurations) as covered in the course to help explain the prevalence and trends.

• Identify and evaluate responses by each country to this phenomenon/issue, including the role of key actors (e.g. employers, unions, the state, and international/supranational organisations) and institutions (rules, legislation and processes, e.g. collective bargaining, social dialogue) in influencing and/or responding to this issue/trend. Consider - Have these responses been effective? Why/why not? What other strategies have been suggested to address this issue and why?

3. Conclusion (10 marks; approx 300-400 words)

• Highlight the key findings from the analysis, and
• Discuss the implications for HRM/employment relations generally and for both countries specifically as relevant (e.g. for organisational/HR policy or practice) [NB: consideration of the implications is a significant component of marks awarded for this section]