Human Resource Development and Leadership

The length of the essay should not exceed 3,500 words (excluding references)

 Please answer only ONE of the following questions:

 1.      It is now widely acknowledged that leadership has become an increasingly collective activity, and a dynamic interactive process of learning and influence through the building of relationships and networks. Critically evaluate this statement in the light of the changing contexts of leadership and discuss how these shifts are influencing contemporary understandings of leadership theory and practice.

 2.      In a paradigm that is termed post heroic leadership, critically explain why ethics principles and CSR initiatives are reshaping contemporary development leadership practices in organizations globally. Your critique should draw on key contemporary theorists, including for example relational and ethics/CSR writers, and also provide short case examples of the leadership philosophy and approaches of any international organization (e.g. ILO, World Bank, UN), the public sector, NGOs, private sector and MNCs. Your answer should be framed within a specific state or national context.

 3.      Discuss critically the challenges of developing INGOs leadership capacity in the global political economy. Suggest relevant HRD initiatives that can support leadership development in the third sector. You may draw on one or several INGO/NGOs to support your arguments.

 4.      The dynamics of the global political economy and the increasing interconnectedness of societies pose common problems for leadership and leadership development around the world. Explore critically the concept of ‘global leadership’ and discuss HRD strategies that could help develop the competencies necessary to be a successful ‘global’ leader in an increasingly changing and complex world.

 5.      Drawing on what you have learned in this course and from your independent study, explore critically the meaning of public leadership, the challenges of public leadership and HRD capabilities needed for effective public leadership in contemporary contexts.

 6.      Discuss critically the meaning and importance of emotional and social intelligence in the leadership process. Your answer should demonstrate how emotional intelligence, social capital and networking can provide access to information, resources and opportunities, and enhance overall leadership effectiveness.

Generic Instructions and Notes

 The subject areas and themes in the questions reflect underpinning knowledge for HRD and Leadership, including HRD strategies for development leadership, ethics/CSR, leadership in international organization, leading NGOs/INGOs, public leadership and leadership development.

In addressing any of the essay questions, you are required as detailed in the Module Guide to draw on a range of theoretical models and key academic concepts/debates relevant to human resource development and the enhancement of human capabilities in diverse geo-political contexts. It is expected that you demonstrate contemporary knowledge of the HRD and leadership field in your assignment by drawing on a wide range of academic resources, including journal articles, books, and reports published by international and regional development intuitions such as the ILO, UN, World Bank, WEF, African Development Bank, as well INGOs and State governments.