Active learning ideas
Human Resources (HR) Management is about the people who make a business function. Students explore how organizations recruit, interview, train, and retain employees. A significant focus is placed on the rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees in Canada, including health and safety regulations and pay equity.
Activity 01
Students take turns as the hiring manager and the applicant for a summer job. They practice asking and answering common questions, then provide peer feedback on body language and professionalism.
What are the main responsibilities of a human resources department?
Activity 02
Groups are assigned a specific section of the Ontario Employment Standards Act (e.g., minimum wage, breaks, vacation). They create a 'Quick Guide' poster for their classmates.
How do businesses motivate their employees?
Activity 03
Students reflect on what would make them work harder at a job other than a raise. They share ideas like flexible hours, recognition, or a positive environment, then rank them as a class.
What are the rights of workers in Canada?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Employers can fire you for any reason at any time in Canada.
Students often watch American TV and assume 'at-will' employment applies here. Use a mock trial or case study to explain 'just cause' and the requirement for notice or severance in Ontario.
HR is only there to hire and fire people.
Many students overlook the roles of training, safety, and conflict resolution. A station rotation showing different HR tasks helps broaden their view of the department's strategic importance.
Methods used in this brief
Production and Operations
Students learn about the factors of production and the processes involved in creating goods and services.
8 methodologies
Marketing and Advertising
A study of the marketing mix (the 4 Ps) and the strategies businesses use to promote their products to target audiences.
8 methodologies
Accounting and Financial Management
An introduction to basic accounting principles, financial statements, and the importance of tracking business finances.
8 methodologies