Sustainability in Business

Description

Module summary: This module provides an understanding of the background context to sustainability, alongside models which challenge the way we might address sustainability issues. Different perspectives are explored through cases exploring supply chains and use of IT, challenging the way in which students visualise carbon footprints of each. Through the use of interactive seminars based on Problem-based learning pedagogy, students will develop their skills in exploring and designing more sustainable organisations. Objectives: The module aims to provide students with an understanding of the background context of sustainability, the core problems, and models to better understand sustainability and the opportunity to apply those models. Particular attention will be paid to the sustainability agenda and students will be able to understand how it impacts on businesses. Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this module students will be able to: 1. Demonstrate understanding of sustainability issues in businesses 2. Evaluate and analyse complex operations environments 3. Critically assess how businesses could address sustainability within their organisation and at a wider societal level 4. Evaluate reasoning and decision making to support the development of business strategy which needs to bring together both the market requirements, operations, technology and sustainability 5. Demonstrate persuasive technique for adapting sustainable agendas Syllabus: Indicative content: - Importance of sustainability - Sustainability in varied supply chains - Circular Economy Business Model for sustainability - How Technology could be an enabler for sustainability Teaching Methods: Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours Lecture 11 1 11 Seminar 5 2 10 Private study hours 79 Total Contact hours 21 Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 100 Private study: A variety of activities such as additional reading, core text, case studies, news articles and podcasts will be shared with students to provide in-depth understanding and preparing for assessments. Opportunities for Formative Feedback: There will be several opportunities for formative feedback during workshop engagements. For the written assignment, students will be asked to bring one page document, a couple of weeks in advance to the submission date so they can receive formative feedback. Methods of Assessment: Coursework Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment Oral Presentation Group presentation 50 Report Project report -1,000 words essay 50 Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100 Resit will be 2000 words written assignment. *NB: 1000 words submission is individual critical reflection based on the group presentation. Thus, presentation and essay submission are not two different assessments but are part of the same piece of assessment.