DISCUSSIONSWEEK 1

Striking a Balance (graded)

When efficiency, equity, voice, and other employee, union, and
corporate goals conflict with each other, what should happen next?
Should property rights dominate labor rights? Should labor rights
dominate property rights? Should they be balanced? Defend your
reasoning.Contemporary Pressures in Labor Relations (graded)
Discuss the current pressures on the U.S. labor relations
systemon the corporate side, workplace flexibility and employment
involvement (stemming at least partly from globalization) and on the
labor side, low union density, a representation gap, and difficulties in
organizing new workers.WEEK 2

Union and Labor Key Strategies (graded)

Like any business, labor relations require a strategic approach
to create an efficient plan in support of employees. What is a key union
or labor strategy that is still used today? What is a key historical
strategy that should no longer be part of a labor relations plan?
Thoroughly explain both responses.Labor History (graded)
It has been written, The attempt of persons to understand the
forces remaking their world and, by organization, to control them,
constitutes the major motif of the social history of the late 19th
century. Describe how this statement applies to workers and unions in
the different periods of labor history. Does this statement have
applicability in todays labor relations arena?WEEK 3

HR Strategy and the Employee Voice (graded)

Human resource professionals need to ensure that employees have a
voice in the employment relationship with their employers. From an HR
perspective, what strategies would you consider employing to make sure
employees have the ability to have a voice? Explain your reasoning for
those strategies.

Union Organizing Process (graded)

Discuss what you think are the most important challenges for both
unions and management in a union workplace. Why are the challenges in a
nonunion workplace? How have these challenges changed over the last 5
to 10 years?WEEK 4Labor Law (graded)
In both private and public sectors, a sharp increase in union
membership coincides with the passage of protective legislation. A
long-standing debate is whether increased demand for unionization causes
new legislation or vice versa. What side of this argument do you find
yourself on and why? Explain your reasoning. Bring in recent examples in
the news that support your stand.

Bargaining (graded)

Bargaining has resulted in many rights and benefits for all
employees within the workplace. Describe your understanding of the
purpose of bargaining. Conduct some additional research, and review a
case study that includes union bargaining (be sure to cite your source
of the case study).WEEK 5

Interest Arbitration (graded)

List the pros and cons of interest arbitration. Why do you think
the usage of interest arbitration in the private sector is so low?

This section lists options that can be used to view responses.

Grievances (graded)

A union-represented employee filed a grievance with her employer
because she was terminated. The employer stated they were in an at-will
state and had the right to terminate anyone at any time without cause.
The former employee was terminated with no reason given, so the employer
states he had the right to terminate her on the spot. Share your
thoughts on this scenario as the labor relations professional. Detail
what steps you would take, if any, and explain each step thoroughly. Be
sure to cite labor law accordingly.WEEK 6

Conflict Management (graded)

Some conflict management styles include avoidance, accommodation,
competition, compromise, and collaboration. Which style do you think
you use for conflict resolution? Share why you tend to use that approach
to resolve conflicts. Also share instances when a particular style did
not go so well. Why, from your view, did that happen? What, if anything,
did you learn when that style did not help?

Resolving Labor Disputes (graded)

According to Arbitrator Daugherty (Koven and Smith, 2006), there are seven tests of just cause.
Was the worker given advance warning of the consequences of his or her conduct?Was the rule, order, or standard reasonably related to employee performance?Was the alleged violation thoroughly investigated before discipline?Was the investigation fair and objective?Did the investigation reveal convincing proof of guilt?Was the employer’s discipline nondiscriminatory?Was the discipline reasonably related to the worker’s record and the severity of the conduct?
How would you answer these questions based on the following
scenario? Be thorough because you will be presenting this in front of
the union.
Scenario
An employee received a disciplinary letter for her personnel file
because she made a mistake on the job. This letter removes seniority
points from her record. The company is in the middle of layoffs, and as
a result of this letter, this employee would be next for layoff, when
without the letter, she would have been safe. The mistake did not cost
the business money but rather embarrassment to the supervisor, according
to the employee. The contract states that the disciplinary process may
be used for performance issues. The supervisor stated that the
employees mistake was a performance issue and he had the right to
issue a disciplinary letter. This employees previous performance
appraisals have been satisfactory and above.
Reference
Koven, A., & Smith, S. (2006). Just cause: The seven tests (3rd ed.). Arlington, VA: BNA Books.WEEK 7

Workforce Change (graded)

What recommendations would you make to union and management
leadership in order to meet the demands of a constantly changing
workplace? What are some possible warnings?Companies, Unions, and the 21st Century (graded)
There is going to be a major generation shift with baby boomers
leaving the workplace. Generations X and Y do not have the same ties to
union activities as the baby boomers. What might unions have to offer
these new generations? How would unions go about connecting with these
two generations?WEEK 3
Labor Relations Paper

Your first written assignment is due this week. The end of Chapter 6 has
four scenarios for you to write about. The title of the assignment is
HR Strategy Responding to a Union Organizing Drive. These scenarios ask
you to analyze the issues and develop a course of action for each
scenario. Read each scenario and:
See the HRM330 Labor Relations Paper Assignment in Doc Sharing for details.

Outline your various alternatives in responding to the union organizing drive.Develop and support a specific recommended course of action to present to upper management.

Do not include the scenarios in the paper.
The focus of the assignment is to develop alternatives and a course of
action for each of the four scenarios.

Submit your assignment to the Dropbox located on the silver tab at the
top of this page. For instructions on how to use the Dropbox, read these
.next.ecollege.com/default/launch.ed?ssoType=DVUHubSSO2&node=184″>step-by-step instructions or watch thisWritten Assignment #1
HR Strategy Responding to a Union Organizing Drive
Due Week 3
Assignment
Overview
There are 4 scenarios at the end of Chapter 6 of the
textbook, pages 225 and 226. The purpose of this assignment is to provide you
with real world exposure to the functions performed by labor relations. This assignment is worth 150 points; see
rubric below.
Preparing
for this Assignment
Read through each of the 4 scenarios. Spend some time
analyzing what actions you would take as the HR Manager for these
organizations.
Assignment
Criteria
1. Write
a 6-8 page paper (does not include title page or reference page/pages)
providing a summary of your actions.
a. You
are the HR Manager for each scenario.
b. Read
through each scenario.
c. Read
through the Plan-Do Check-Act (PDCA) process that is located in DocSharing.
This will be helpful in your analysis of the issues as well as offering viable
recommendations.
d. Outline
your various alternatives in responding to the union organizing drive.
e. Develop
and support a specific recommended course of action to present to upper
management.
2. Follow
APA format guidelines.
3. You
should be able to cover the alternatives and recommended actions in 1 1/2 to 2 pages
for each scenario.
4. The
paper should include theory application.
In other words, once you have conducted your analysis, what theories link
to the Labor Relations processes/functions?
For example, spend a little time justifying the recommendations you made
to upper management. Why should management pursue your suggestions? What
analysis have you done that makes your recommendations viable? What are the
pros and cons of the recommendations?
Assignment
Rubric
Item
Criteria
Points
Introduction/Conclusion
Introduction
provides sufficient background on the topic and previews major points.
Conclusion is logical, flows from the body of the paper, and reviews the
major points.
10
Content
All
key elements of the assignment are covered in a substantive way. Page
count follows assignment criteria. Major points are stated clearly, are
supported by specific details (examples or analysis), and are organized
logically.
60
Theory
The
paper links theory to relevant examples of current experience and industry
practice, and uses the vocabulary of the theory correctly.
40
Readability
Paragraph
transitions are present and logical, flow maintained throughout paper.
Sentences are complete, clear, and concise. Sentence topic transitions are
present and maintain the flow of thought.
20
Mechanics
The
paper, including the title page, reference page, citations, etc., follows APA
guidelines for format. Rules of grammar usage and punctuation are followed.
Spelling is correct.
20
Total
Points
150WEEK 5You Decide
Scenario Summary
Your Role/Assignment
Key Players
Scenario Summary
Carol Fern has been employed by Bainbridge Borough for 18
years as a tax clerk. The tax clerk position is part of the bargaining unit
represented by Local 10 of the American Federation of State, County, and
Municipal Employees (AFSCME). When Carol and her husband found out that she was
unable to conceive, they decided to adopt a child. The Ferns were notified on
April 22 that a 3-month-old baby girl was available and they could adopt her in
three days. However, Carol told the adoption agency that she thought it was
unfair to leave the company on such short notice because April was a busy tax
season. Adoption was delayed until May 2. On April 27, Carol requested two
weeks of paid vacation for May 2 to May 17. This request was granted. The day
before she was to return from her paid vacation, Carol asked for 6 months of
unpaid maternity leave. The request had to be approved by the Bainbridge
Borough Council, which rejected the request by a 4-3 vote. However, the council
did offer Carol two consecutive 90-day reasonable purpose leaves (amounting to
6 months of leave).
On June 1, the following grievance was filed.
According to Article X, Section 4.AUnpaid Leaves, 5.
Maternity on page 13 of the final agreement between Bainbridge Borough and
Local 10: Maternity leaves not to exceed 6 months shall be granted at the
request of an employee. Maternity leaves shall, upon the request of the
employee, be extended or renewed for a period not to exceed 6 months. Relief or
remedy sought: Granting of the just and deserved leave request.
A Potentially Relevant Contract Provision A. Leaves of
absence for a limited period without paynot to exceed 90 daysshall be granted
for any reasonable purpose. Extension to be granted with approval of Borough
Council.
Your Role/Assignment
The Issue
The union claims that the company violated the collective
bargaining agreement by denying Carole Ferns request for maternity leave.
Carole Fern is clearly a new mother and is therefore entitled to the leave
specified by the contract. The town argues that maternity leave is for mothers
of naturally-born infants, not adopted children, and therefore, Carole Fern is
not entitled to maternity leave.
So, decide which one is correct: Does maternity leave apply
to adoptive mothers or only to mothers actually giving birth?
Key Players
Photo of Carol Fern
Carol Fern
Tax Clerk
Photo of Town People
Town People
Photo of Sally Stevens
Sally Stevens
CEO of company
Photo of Bob Smith
Bob Smith
Union leader
YOU DECIDE
Assignment
Assignment
You have three areas of focus for this assignment.
As an attorney for
Bainbridge Borough, develop a case to support the councils rejection of Carol
Ferns unpaid maternity leave request.
As an attorney for
AFSCME Local 10, develop an argument to support your clients contention that
the councils rejection of Carols unpaid maternity leave request violated the
collective bargaining agreement.
As an arbitrator,
how would you rule? Why?
Write a two- to three-page paper, (double-spaced, 12 point
type, APA style) that outlines the case for Bainbridge Borough, the case for
AFSCME Local 10, and how you would rule as an arbitrator based on the facts you
have for this case.
Category Points
Description
Bainbridge Rejection 20
Based on the collective
bargaining agreement wording, defend why Carols request should be denied.
Unions Contention 20
Based on the collective
bargaining agreement, defend why Carols request should be granted.
Arbitrators Perspective 30
Present the issues that the
arbitrator has to analyze in making a decision on the grievance.WEEK 7Course Project: Beginning or End of Unions?
Submit your project to the Dropbox located on the silver tab
at the top of this page. For instructions on how to use the Dropbox, read these
step-by-step instructions or watch this TutorialDropbox Tutorial.
See the Syllabus section “Due Dates for Assignments
& Exams” for due date information.
Objectives | Course Project Paper Topics | Guidelines |
Milestones | Grading Rubrics | Best Practices
Objectives
Back to Top
The purpose of this project is to apply your
critical-thinking skills to address the following concepts in a comprehensive
paper. Do not simply respond to these items but provide a fully reviewed paper
about the future of unions.
The objective of this paper is to share your professional
understanding related to labor relations and unions based on theory. Include
the theories from the discussions, your readings, and the TCOs reviewed
throughout the course in this paper.
See the Course Project Paper Tour below for more information
and tips for writing the paper.
Course Project Paper Tour
Transcript
Course Project Paper Topics
Back to Top
These are the topics you have to choose from to write the
course paper.
In todays
economic climate, with more and more organizations continuing to shed jobs, can
unions survive?
Consider a
specific union, such as the United Auto Workers, International Brotherhood of
Electrical Workers, Teamsters, National Education Association, American
Federation of Teachers, and so forth, and discuss their viability into the
future. What does this specific union need to focus on to remain in the
business world?
What changes are
needed for unions to maintain support from their membership, the community, and
the employers?
Labor unions are
experiencing a decline, which includes political influence and membership. How
does politics influence membership decline?
What generational
aspects (i.e., baby boomers, Generation X, Generation Y) have influenced labor
unions and will continue to do so?
What other
external dynamics are impacting labor unions? For example, how does the global
workforce impact union strategies?
For unions, where
were they, where are they, and where do they need to go to remain or regain an
active and viable organization in the 21st century?
For unions, where
were they, where are they, and where do they need to go to remain or regain an
active and viable organization in the 21st century?
What is the future
of public sector employees and their union membership? A number of states have
focused on reducing benefits and union rights. Is this the future and will this
focus spread to other organizations outside of the public sector that have
unions?
What types of bargaining strategies need to
be put into place for unions to be able to survive inside organizations?
Guidelines
Back to Top
Write an 8- to
10-page paper (excluding title and reference pages) that identifies the
challenges that unions face in the 21st century.
Include all
aspects of the assignment criteria outlined.
Use a 12-point
Times Roman or Arial font, double-space it, and have 1 in. margins as a
standard format.
Do not include
extra lines between paragraphs and so forth.
You should use
theory throughout your paper, which covers the aspects of the TCOs reviewed in
the previous weeks.
You should use a
minimum of six scholarly resources.
DeVry University
policies are in effect, including the plagiarism policy: cite in text when
quoting (copying information word for word) or using words and thoughts that
are not your own.
Submit assignments
in Word documents only to the Dropbox by the due date.
Graphs and tables
are not needed and should not be used in this paper.
Grammar,
punctuation, spelling, and so forth will all be taken into consideration when
awarding points.
Proofread your
papers before submitting; spell check is not foolproof.
This paper is
worth 250 points and will be graded on the quality of the research topic,
quality of paper information, and use of citations, grammar, and sentence
structure.
Papers are due in
Week 7 of this course.
Milestones
Back to Top
The Final Paper is due in Week 7.
Submit your project to the Dropbox located on the silver tab
at the top of this page. For instructions on how to use the Dropbox, read these
step-by-step instructions or watch this TutorialDropbox Tutorial.
See the Syllabus section “Due Dates for Assignments
& Exams” for due date information.
Grading Rubrics
Back to Top
Assignment Title: Course Project
Category Points
% Description
Documentation and Formatting 25 10 The paper should follow instructions
as outlined under the guidelines.
Organization and Cohesiveness 50 20 The paper should have topical flow
with like subjects in each paragraph. Paragraphs should flow and link from one
topic to the next. Instructor feedback from throughout the session should be
integrated. Paragraph transitions should be present and logical. Page count
should follow guidelines.
Editing 25 10 Sentences
should be complete, clear, and concise. Sentence transitions should be present
and maintain the flow of thought. Rules of grammar and punctuation should be
followed. Spelling should be correct. Sentence structure should be clean and
clear. The writing style should follow appropriate undergraduate-level writing.
Content 150
60 The paper content should be thorough, yet concise.
Information included should be relevant to the topic and provide depth and
clarity of theories, as well as theory application. All key elements of the
assignment should be covered in a substantive way. Concepts should be reviewed
clearly, supported by specific details (examples or analysis), and organized
logically. The paper should link theory to relevant examples of current
concepts and industry practice. There should be correct use of vocabulary and
theory.
Total 250 100 A
quality paper will meet or exceed all of the above requirements.
Best Practices
Back to Top
These are suggestions for what could be included in this
section.
The following are the best practices in preparing this
paper.
Cover PageInclude
who you prepared the paper for, who prepared it, and the date.
Table of
ContentsList the main ideas and section of your paper and the pages in which
they are located. The illustrations should be included separately.
IntroductionUse a
header on your paper. This will indicate you are introducing your paper.
The purpose of an introduction or opening should do the
following.
Introduce the
subject and why the subject is important.
Preview the main
ideas and the order in which they will be covered.
Establish a tone
of the document.
Include in the introduction a reason for the audience to
read the paper. Also, include an overview of what you are going to cover in
your paper and the importance of the material. (This should include or
introduce the questions you are asked to answer on each assignment.)
Body of Your
ReportUse a header titled with the name of your project. Example: The
Development of Hotel XA World Class Resort. Then proceed to break out the main
ideas. State the main ideas, state major points in each idea, and provide
evidence. Break out each main idea you will use in the body of your paper. Show
some type of division, such as separate sections that are labeled, separate
group of paragraphs, or headers. You would include the information you found
during your research and investigation.
Summary and
ConclusionSummarizing is similar to paraphrasing but presents the gist of the
material in fewer words than the original. An effective summary identifies the
main ideas and major support points from the body of your report. Minor details
are left out. Summarize the benefits of the ideas and how they affect the
tourism industry.
Work CitedUse the
citation format as specified in the Syllabus.
Additional hints on preparing the best possible project are
as follows.
Apply a three-step
process of writing: Plan, write, and complete.
Prepare an outline
of your research paper before you go forward.
Complete a first
draft and then go back to edit, evaluate, and make any changes required.
The following are the best practices in preparing this
paper.
Create a separate
title page, which includes name, paper title, and university.
Include an
introductory paragraph that identifies the papers content: Introduce the
subject and the reason it is important, preview the main ideas and the order in
which they will be covered, and establish the document’s tone.
Include a
concluding paragraph that provides a summary of the major points from the paper.
Use a formal
writing style for academic writing (sharing information and facts or theory).
Write your paper
in third person.
Fully describe the
concepts and theories. (What does the information mean?)
Apply a three-step
process of writing: Plan, write, and complete.
When making a
statement, for example, all people who break the law should improve their
communication skills to stay out of jail, you must substantiate that statement.
If that statement is not your own thought or a statistic, cite it. If it is
your opinion, state that it is and explain the information that led to that
conclusion. Provide enough information to validate and explain statements.
Minimize copied
information, which just teaches you how to copy and paste. Use
critical-thinking skills to understand the material researched.FINAL Page 1
Question 1. 1. (TCO 1) Explain the employment-at-will
doctrine. How does this doctrine conflict with the belief that workers are more
than just a commodity that can be bought and sold in a labor market? (Points :
30)
Question 2. 2. (TCO 2) How has intense global competition
affected the American labor movement? (Points : 30)
Question 3. 3. (TCO 3) What are some of the ways in which
public sector unionization differs from private sector unionization? (Points :
30)
Question 4. 4. (TCO 4) Describe some of the stereotypes that
exist about unions in the United States. Explain how the various elements of
popular culture reinforce these stereotypes. (Points : 30)
Question 5. 5. (TCO 5) Compare and contrast democracy in
unions with democracy in corporations. (Points : 30)
Question 6. 6. (TCO 6) If bargaining impasses occur so
infrequently, and so few working days are lost due to strikes, why is it
important to study bargaining impasses and various alternative dispute
resolution mechanisms? (Points : 30)
Question 7. 7. (TCO 7) Explain the importance of seniority
in union contracts, and discuss the various ways in which seniority is used in
making job-related decisions. Why is seniority preferable to other methods of
making these same decisions? (Points : 30)
Question 8. 8. (TCO 8) Explain the primary purpose of the
European Union and its stance on labor standards for member countries. (Points
: 40)
When efficiency, equity, voice, and other employee, union, and
corporate goals conflict with each other, what should happen next?
Should property rights dominate labor rights? Should labor rights
dominate property rights? Should they be balanced? Defend your
reasoning.Discuss the current pressures on the U.S. labor relations
systemon the corporate side, workplace flexibility and employment
involvement (stemming at least partly from globalization) and on the
labor side, low union density, a representation gap, and difficulties in
organizing new workers.WEEK 2
Like any business, labor relations require a strategic approach
to create an efficient plan in support of employees. What is a key union
or labor strategy that is still used today? What is a key historical
strategy that should no longer be part of a labor relations plan?
Thoroughly explain both responses.It has been written, The attempt of persons to understand the
forces remaking their world and, by organization, to control them,
constitutes the major motif of the social history of the late 19th
century. Describe how this statement applies to workers and unions in
the different periods of labor history. Does this statement have
applicability in todays labor relations arena?WEEK 3Human resource professionals need to ensure that employees have a
voice in the employment relationship with their employers. From an HR
perspective, what strategies would you consider employing to make sure
employees have the ability to have a voice? Explain your reasoning for
those strategies.Discuss what you think are the most important challenges for both
unions and management in a union workplace. Why are the challenges in a
nonunion workplace? How have these challenges changed over the last 5
to 10 years?WEEK 4In both private and public sectors, a sharp increase in union
membership coincides with the passage of protective legislation. A
long-standing debate is whether increased demand for unionization causes
new legislation or vice versa. What side of this argument do you find
yourself on and why? Explain your reasoning. Bring in recent examples in
the news that support your stand.Bargaining has resulted in many rights and benefits for all
employees within the workplace. Describe your understanding of the
purpose of bargaining. Conduct some additional research, and review a
case study that includes union bargaining (be sure to cite your source
of the case study).List the pros and cons of interest arbitration. Why do you think
the usage of interest arbitration in the private sector is so low?A union-represented employee filed a grievance with her employer
because she was terminated. The employer stated they were in an at-will
state and had the right to terminate anyone at any time without cause.
The former employee was terminated with no reason given, so the employer
states he had the right to terminate her on the spot. Share your
thoughts on this scenario as the labor relations professional. Detail
what steps you would take, if any, and explain each step thoroughly. Be
sure to cite labor law accordingly.WEEK 6Some conflict management styles include avoidance, accommodation,
competition, compromise, and collaboration. Which style do you think
you use for conflict resolution? Share why you tend to use that approach
to resolve conflicts. Also share instances when a particular style did
not go so well. Why, from your view, did that happen? What, if anything,
did you learn when that style did not help?According to Arbitrator Daugherty (Koven and Smith, 2006), there are seven tests of just cause.How would you answer these questions based on the following
scenario? Be thorough because you will be presenting this in front of
the union.ScenarioAn employee received a disciplinary letter for her personnel file
because she made a mistake on the job. This letter removes seniority
points from her record. The company is in the middle of layoffs, and as
a result of this letter, this employee would be next for layoff, when
without the letter, she would have been safe. The mistake did not cost
the business money but rather embarrassment to the supervisor, according
to the employee. The contract states that the disciplinary process may
be used for performance issues. The supervisor stated that the
employees mistake was a performance issue and he had the right to
issue a disciplinary letter. This employees previous performance
appraisals have been satisfactory and above.ReferenceKoven, A., & Smith, S. (2006). Just cause: The seven tests (3rd ed.). Arlington, VA: BNA Books.WEEK 7What recommendations would you make to union and management
leadership in order to meet the demands of a constantly changing
workplace? What are some possible warnings?There is going to be a major generation shift with baby boomers
leaving the workplace. Generations X and Y do not have the same ties to
union activities as the baby boomers. What might unions have to offer
these new generations? How would unions go about connecting with these
two generations?
Your first written assignment is due this week. The end of Chapter 6 has
four scenarios for you to write about. The title of the assignment is
HR Strategy Responding to a Union Organizing Drive. These scenarios ask
you to analyze the issues and develop a course of action for each
scenario. Read each scenario and:
See the HRM330 Labor Relations Paper Assignment in Doc Sharing for details.Do not include the scenarios in the paper.
The focus of the assignment is to develop alternatives and a course of
action for each of the four scenarios.Written Assignment #1HR Strategy Responding to a Union Organizing DriveDue Week 3Assignment
OverviewThere are 4 scenarios at the end of Chapter 6 of the
textbook, pages 225 and 226. The purpose of this assignment is to provide you
with real world exposure to the functions performed by labor relations. This assignment is worth 150 points; see
rubric below.Preparing
for this AssignmentRead through each of the 4 scenarios. Spend some time
analyzing what actions you would take as the HR Manager for these
organizations.Assignment
Criteria1. Write
a 6-8 page paper (does not include title page or reference page/pages)
providing a summary of your actions.a. You
are the HR Manager for each scenario.b. Read
through each scenario.c. Read
through the Plan-Do Check-Act (PDCA) process that is located in DocSharing.
This will be helpful in your analysis of the issues as well as offering viable
recommendations.d. Outline
your various alternatives in responding to the union organizing drive.e. Develop
and support a specific recommended course of action to present to upper
management.2. Follow
APA format guidelines.3. You
should be able to cover the alternatives and recommended actions in 1 1/2 to 2 pages
for each scenario.4. The
paper should include theory application.
In other words, once you have conducted your analysis, what theories link
to the Labor Relations processes/functions?
For example, spend a little time justifying the recommendations you made
to upper management. Why should management pursue your suggestions? What
analysis have you done that makes your recommendations viable? What are the
pros and cons of the recommendations?Assignment
RubricItemCriteriaPointsIntroduction/ConclusionIntroduction
provides sufficient background on the topic and previews major points.
Conclusion is logical, flows from the body of the paper, and reviews the
major points.10ContentAll
key elements of the assignment are covered in a substantive way. Page
count follows assignment criteria. Major points are stated clearly, are
supported by specific details (examples or analysis), and are organized
logically.60TheoryThe
paper links theory to relevant examples of current experience and industry
practice, and uses the vocabulary of the theory correctly.40ReadabilityParagraph
transitions are present and logical, flow maintained throughout paper.
Sentences are complete, clear, and concise. Sentence topic transitions are
present and maintain the flow of thought.20MechanicsThe
paper, including the title page, reference page, citations, etc., follows APA
guidelines for format. Rules of grammar usage and punctuation are followed.
Spelling is correct.20Total
Points150You DecideScenario SummaryYour Role/AssignmentKey PlayersScenario SummaryCarol Fern has been employed by Bainbridge Borough for 18
years as a tax clerk. The tax clerk position is part of the bargaining unit
represented by Local 10 of the American Federation of State, County, and
Municipal Employees (AFSCME). When Carol and her husband found out that she was
unable to conceive, they decided to adopt a child. The Ferns were notified on
April 22 that a 3-month-old baby girl was available and they could adopt her in
three days. However, Carol told the adoption agency that she thought it was
unfair to leave the company on such short notice because April was a busy tax
season. Adoption was delayed until May 2. On April 27, Carol requested two
weeks of paid vacation for May 2 to May 17. This request was granted. The day
before she was to return from her paid vacation, Carol asked for 6 months of
unpaid maternity leave. The request had to be approved by the Bainbridge
Borough Council, which rejected the request by a 4-3 vote. However, the council
did offer Carol two consecutive 90-day reasonable purpose leaves (amounting to
6 months of leave).On June 1, the following grievance was filed.According to Article X, Section 4.AUnpaid Leaves, 5.
Maternity on page 13 of the final agreement between Bainbridge Borough and
Local 10: Maternity leaves not to exceed 6 months shall be granted at the
request of an employee. Maternity leaves shall, upon the request of the
employee, be extended or renewed for a period not to exceed 6 months. Relief or
remedy sought: Granting of the just and deserved leave request.A Potentially Relevant Contract Provision A. Leaves of
absence for a limited period without paynot to exceed 90 daysshall be granted
for any reasonable purpose. Extension to be granted with approval of Borough
Council.Your Role/AssignmentThe IssueThe union claims that the company violated the collective
bargaining agreement by denying Carole Ferns request for maternity leave.
Carole Fern is clearly a new mother and is therefore entitled to the leave
specified by the contract. The town argues that maternity leave is for mothers
of naturally-born infants, not adopted children, and therefore, Carole Fern is
not entitled to maternity leave.So, decide which one is correct: Does maternity leave apply
to adoptive mothers or only to mothers actually giving birth?Key PlayersPhoto of Carol FernCarol FernTax ClerkPhoto of Town PeopleTown PeoplePhoto of Sally StevensSally StevensCEO of companyPhoto of Bob SmithBob SmithUnion leaderYOU DECIDEAssignmentAssignmentYou have three areas of focus for this assignment. As an attorney for
Bainbridge Borough, develop a case to support the councils rejection of Carol
Ferns unpaid maternity leave request. As an attorney for
AFSCME Local 10, develop an argument to support your clients contention that
the councils rejection of Carols unpaid maternity leave request violated the
collective bargaining agreement. As an arbitrator,
how would you rule? Why?Write a two- to three-page paper, (double-spaced, 12 point
type, APA style) that outlines the case for Bainbridge Borough, the case for
AFSCME Local 10, and how you would rule as an arbitrator based on the facts you
have for this case.Category Points
DescriptionBainbridge Rejection 20
Based on the collective
bargaining agreement wording, defend why Carols request should be denied.Unions Contention 20
Based on the collective
bargaining agreement, defend why Carols request should be granted.Arbitrators Perspective 30
Present the issues that the
arbitrator has to analyze in making a decision on the grievance.Course Project: Beginning or End of Unions?Submit your project to the Dropbox located on the silver tab
at the top of this page. For instructions on how to use the Dropbox, read these
step-by-step instructions or watch this TutorialDropbox Tutorial.See the Syllabus section “Due Dates for Assignments
& Exams” for due date information.Objectives | Course Project Paper Topics | Guidelines |
Milestones | Grading Rubrics | Best PracticesObjectivesBack to TopThe purpose of this project is to apply your
critical-thinking skills to address the following concepts in a comprehensive
paper. Do not simply respond to these items but provide a fully reviewed paper
about the future of unions.The objective of this paper is to share your professional
understanding related to labor relations and unions based on theory. Include
the theories from the discussions, your readings, and the TCOs reviewed
throughout the course in this paper.See the Course Project Paper Tour below for more information
and tips for writing the paper.Course Project Paper TourTranscriptCourse Project Paper TopicsBack to TopThese are the topics you have to choose from to write the
course paper. In todays
economic climate, with more and more organizations continuing to shed jobs, can
unions survive? Consider a
specific union, such as the United Auto Workers, International Brotherhood of
Electrical Workers, Teamsters, National Education Association, American
Federation of Teachers, and so forth, and discuss their viability into the
future. What does this specific union need to focus on to remain in the
business world? What changes are
needed for unions to maintain support from their membership, the community, and
the employers? Labor unions are
experiencing a decline, which includes political influence and membership. How
does politics influence membership decline? What generational
aspects (i.e., baby boomers, Generation X, Generation Y) have influenced labor
unions and will continue to do so? What other
external dynamics are impacting labor unions? For example, how does the global
workforce impact union strategies? For unions, where
were they, where are they, and where do they need to go to remain or regain an
active and viable organization in the 21st century? For unions, where
were they, where are they, and where do they need to go to remain or regain an
active and viable organization in the 21st century? What is the future
of public sector employees and their union membership? A number of states have
focused on reducing benefits and union rights. Is this the future and will this
focus spread to other organizations outside of the public sector that have
unions? What types of bargaining strategies need to
be put into place for unions to be able to survive inside organizations?GuidelinesBack to Top Write an 8- to
10-page paper (excluding title and reference pages) that identifies the
challenges that unions face in the 21st century. Include all
aspects of the assignment criteria outlined. Use a 12-point
Times Roman or Arial font, double-space it, and have 1 in. margins as a
standard format. Do not include
extra lines between paragraphs and so forth. You should use
theory throughout your paper, which covers the aspects of the TCOs reviewed in
the previous weeks. You should use a
minimum of six scholarly resources. DeVry University
policies are in effect, including the plagiarism policy: cite in text when
quoting (copying information word for word) or using words and thoughts that
are not your own. Submit assignments
in Word documents only to the Dropbox by the due date. Graphs and tables
are not needed and should not be used in this paper. Grammar,
punctuation, spelling, and so forth will all be taken into consideration when
awarding points. Proofread your
papers before submitting; spell check is not foolproof. This paper is
worth 250 points and will be graded on the quality of the research topic,
quality of paper information, and use of citations, grammar, and sentence
structure. Papers are due in
Week 7 of this course.MilestonesBack to TopThe Final Paper is due in Week 7.Submit your project to the Dropbox located on the silver tab
at the top of this page. For instructions on how to use the Dropbox, read these
step-by-step instructions or watch this TutorialDropbox Tutorial.See the Syllabus section “Due Dates for Assignments
& Exams” for due date information.Grading RubricsBack to TopAssignment Title: Course ProjectCategory Points
% DescriptionDocumentation and Formatting 25 10 The paper should follow instructions
as outlined under the guidelines.Organization and Cohesiveness 50 20 The paper should have topical flow
with like subjects in each paragraph. Paragraphs should flow and link from one
topic to the next. Instructor feedback from throughout the session should be
integrated. Paragraph transitions should be present and logical. Page count
should follow guidelines.Editing 25 10 Sentences
should be complete, clear, and concise. Sentence transitions should be present
and maintain the flow of thought. Rules of grammar and punctuation should be
followed. Spelling should be correct. Sentence structure should be clean and
clear. The writing style should follow appropriate undergraduate-level writing.Content 150
60 The paper content should be thorough, yet concise.
Information included should be relevant to the topic and provide depth and
clarity of theories, as well as theory application. All key elements of the
assignment should be covered in a substantive way. Concepts should be reviewed
clearly, supported by specific details (examples or analysis), and organized
logically. The paper should link theory to relevant examples of current
concepts and industry practice. There should be correct use of vocabulary and
theory.Total 250 100 A
quality paper will meet or exceed all of the above requirements.Best PracticesBack to TopThese are suggestions for what could be included in this
section.The following are the best practices in preparing this
paper. Cover PageInclude
who you prepared the paper for, who prepared it, and the date. Table of
ContentsList the main ideas and section of your paper and the pages in which
they are located. The illustrations should be included separately. IntroductionUse a
header on your paper. This will indicate you are introducing your paper.The purpose of an introduction or opening should do the
following. Introduce the
subject and why the subject is important. Preview the main
ideas and the order in which they will be covered. Establish a tone
of the document.Include in the introduction a reason for the audience to
read the paper. Also, include an overview of what you are going to cover in
your paper and the importance of the material. (This should include or
introduce the questions you are asked to answer on each assignment.) Body of Your
ReportUse a header titled with the name of your project. Example: The
Development of Hotel XA World Class Resort. Then proceed to break out the main
ideas. State the main ideas, state major points in each idea, and provide
evidence. Break out each main idea you will use in the body of your paper. Show
some type of division, such as separate sections that are labeled, separate
group of paragraphs, or headers. You would include the information you found
during your research and investigation. Summary and
ConclusionSummarizing is similar to paraphrasing but presents the gist of the
material in fewer words than the original. An effective summary identifies the
main ideas and major support points from the body of your report. Minor details
are left out. Summarize the benefits of the ideas and how they affect the
tourism industry. Work CitedUse the
citation format as specified in the Syllabus.Additional hints on preparing the best possible project are
as follows. Apply a three-step
process of writing: Plan, write, and complete. Prepare an outline
of your research paper before you go forward. Complete a first
draft and then go back to edit, evaluate, and make any changes required.The following are the best practices in preparing this
paper. Create a separate
title page, which includes name, paper title, and university. Include an
introductory paragraph that identifies the papers content: Introduce the
subject and the reason it is important, preview the main ideas and the order in
which they will be covered, and establish the document’s tone. Include a
concluding paragraph that provides a summary of the major points from the paper. Use a formal
writing style for academic writing (sharing information and facts or theory). Write your paper
in third person. Fully describe the
concepts and theories. (What does the information mean?) Apply a three-step
process of writing: Plan, write, and complete. When making a
statement, for example, all people who break the law should improve their
communication skills to stay out of jail, you must substantiate that statement.
If that statement is not your own thought or a statistic, cite it. If it is
your opinion, state that it is and explain the information that led to that
conclusion. Provide enough information to validate and explain statements. Minimize copied
information, which just teaches you how to copy and paste. Use
critical-thinking skills to understand the material researched.Page 1Question 1. 1. (TCO 1) Explain the employment-at-will
doctrine. How does this doctrine conflict with the belief that workers are more
than just a commodity that can be bought and sold in a labor market? (Points :
30)Question 2. 2. (TCO 2) How has intense global competition
affected the American labor movement? (Points : 30)Question 3. 3. (TCO 3) What are some of the ways in which
public sector unionization differs from private sector unionization? (Points :
30)Question 4. 4. (TCO 4) Describe some of the stereotypes that
exist about unions in the United States. Explain how the various elements of
popular culture reinforce these stereotypes. (Points : 30)Question 5. 5. (TCO 5) Compare and contrast democracy in
unions with democracy in corporations. (Points : 30)Question 6. 6. (TCO 6) If bargaining impasses occur so
infrequently, and so few working days are lost due to strikes, why is it
important to study bargaining impasses and various alternative dispute
resolution mechanisms? (Points : 30)Question 7. 7. (TCO 7) Explain the importance of seniority
in union contracts, and discuss the various ways in which seniority is used in
making job-related decisions. Why is seniority preferable to other methods of
making these same decisions? (Points : 30)Question 8. 8. (TCO 8) Explain the primary purpose of the
European Union and its stance on labor standards for member countries. (Points
: 40)