ESSAY
The aim of the essay is for students to gain experience and develop skills in examining, analyzing, researching and writing up a report style essay addressing a topic on a major component of the course.
It is important to start exploring the subject material well before the due date this gives time to adequately research and reflect on how you are going to develop your argument.
You should reasonably expect to preparation at least four weeks before the paper is due
Remember:
1. You must argue your case, don't restate or describe facts
2. We do not have a single right answer in mind You need to develop your unique argument based on your own research and analysis.
3. Logically examine competing views you find in the literature.
4. Include the use of business examples to support your ideas.
ESSAY TOPICS
Students may choose one topic from the two listed below and write an essay of 500 words in length The essay must follow the report style outlined in this document Please read the marking rubric ./ essay grade descriptors (pages 5-7) to understand how your assignment will be graded. Time management and meeting deadlines are critical management skills Therefore, essays must be handed in on the date specified.
Please Note:
Essays are individual works (no group working will be accepted.)
1. Discuss the contribution of Total Quality Management (TQM) on organizational success by examining its history, development and application.
OR
2. Motivating workers in the workplace is about understanding their needs, thought processes and the effect of reinforcements they receive" Discuss, by including more recent developments in motivation theories.
Preparing a draft
In order to develop a clear and logical essay you should prepare a plan of your essay and then a rough draft Remember ALL sources of information must be acknowledged and correctly cited, not just direct quotations
Cover page:
The cover page needs to indicate: The assigned question written in full, including the question number, your name and student number, the title of the unit, the name of your lecturer, the day and time of class, and the due date of the essay.
Introduction:
The introduction reveals your understanding of the topic and the direction you intend to pursue. It should outline the main purpose of your essay, describe the approach to be taken, and why the topic is important. Any interpretations or definitions may also be included in this section. It may acknowledge any limitations or constraints. The introduction should be concise and direct, an outline without detailed discussion
Main body:
Your argument should be developed in a logical, well thought out sequence In order to emphasise and clarify the major concepts or issues, the body of your discussion should be divided into relevant chapters or headings
The essay should demonstrate your ability to find information relevant to the topic, to understand and your analytical and critical thinking skills. Present alternative theories and empirical evidence and make a critical appraisal of these. A good essay will contain reference to a number of studies and you must acknowledge the source of all information, not just that which is directly quoted. However, your assignment should not simplify be an edited version of other people's words and ideas. It is important to critically analyse these works and to offer your own opinion substantiated by evidence.
Conclusion:
A conclusion should draw together the main ideas in your discussion and summaries your thoughts on the topic. It should also include the implications of this topic for managers and may indicate aspects that require further consideration or research but should not introduce new material.