Active learning ideas
Motivating Employees explores why people work and how businesses can encourage them to work harder and more effectively. It covers financial motivators (like bonuses and commission) and non-financial ones (like job enrichment and flexible working). For Year 11 students, this topic bridges the gap between management theory and the reality of the workplace.
Activity 01
Split the class into two groups. One argues that high pay is the only way to truly motivate staff, while the other argues that job satisfaction and environment are more important. They must use real-world examples.
What are the main financial methods of motivation?
Activity 02
Groups are given a scenario of a 'demotivated' office (high staff turnover, low output). They must design a 'motivation package' using a fixed budget, choosing between pay rises, gym memberships, or extra holiday.
How can job enrichment motivate employees?
Activity 03
Students look at Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and identify which 'level' they are currently at in school. They share with a partner how the school could help them reach the next level of motivation.
Why is a motivated workforce important for productivity?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Everyone is motivated by money.
While money is a 'hygiene factor,' many people are more motivated by praise, autonomy, or work-life balance. A 'motivation survey' within the class often reveals a wide range of priorities, helping students see this diversity.
Job enrichment is just giving someone more work.
Job enrichment is about giving someone *more meaningful* or challenging work, not just more of the same. Peer discussion of 'boring' vs. 'challenging' tasks helps clarify the difference between enrichment and enlargement.
Methods used in this brief
Organisational Structures
Students examine different organisational structures and their impact on communication. They will explore concepts like span of control and chain of command.
8 methodologies
Recruitment and Selection
This topic covers the recruitment process, from identifying a vacancy to selecting a candidate. Students will compare internal and external recruitment methods.
8 methodologies
Training and Development
Students investigate the importance of training employees. They will evaluate the benefits of on-the-job versus off-the-job training.
8 methodologies