The purpose of this paper is to describe and evaluate an innovative approach
to teaching human resource management. The approach involves students
working in small groups on a semester-long project in the form of an ongoing
case-study (hereafter called the 'living case). After setting up a simulated
organization complete with identification of strategies, structure and culture,
students are required to make and defend a series of HR decisions in which
they apply theory and classroom learning about HRM to their 'real' organ
ization. The approach emphasizes the context of HRM decisions and helps to
develop a range of both HR specific and more general management com
petencies. The living case develops managerial skills which have recently been
identified as critical to future success in Australian organizations.
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