Critically review theory and research in the area of job design

Critically review theory and research in the area of job design

Organisational Behaviour and Health

Assignment information:

This assignment has two parts and you must complete both.

Part 1. Critically review theory and research in the area of job design.

The first part of the assignment is a critical review of theory and research in the area of job design. This should be based on peer reviewed published research.

Some points you may consider covering in your critical review:

• What are the main theories of job design?
• What are key propositions of each theory?
• How are the theories different from one another (e.g., those in support of a particular position, those against, and those offering alternative positions entirely etc)?
• Are the theories comprehensive, or are there important theoretical or practical questions left unanswered?
• Has research supported the theory?
• Are there conceptual or methodological flaws in the research?
• Are there any gaps in the research base/what future directions should the research take?

Part 2. Describe how theory and research in the area of job design has enhanced our understanding of one aspect of organisational behaviour.

The second part of the assignment involves describing how theory and research in the area of job design has enhanced our understanding of one aspect of organisational behaviour (OB). This should also be based on peer reviewed published research, but organisational case study material may also be included to exemplify the particular aspect of OB chosen as long as it is sourced from credible management and practitioner journals (e.g., Harvard Business Review).

Some points you may consider covering in your description:

• What aspect of OB have you chosen?
• Why is this aspect of OB important?

How has understanding been enhanced (e.g., the antecedents of a behaviour have been 

• uncovered, how to change a behaviour is better understood, the conditions under which a behaviour does or does not occur are clearer etc)?
• What are the practical and theoretical implications of our enhanced understanding?

You may choose any aspect of OB that you wish, but please be aware that there will be more evidence for some aspects compared with others. Some example aspects include (Note. You DO NOT have to choose from the areas below):

• Health and productivity
• Workplace safety
• Creativity and innovation
• Customer orientation