The subject draws on a number of disciplines in order to provide students with an understanding of contemporary issues. Papers cover a wide range of relevant topics such as the nature of work, industrial relations, labour market issues, workers' education and training, and international comparisons. A supporting subject in Labour Studies must include 0517.201 and two other 0517 numbered papers. Students may include 0585.202 as part of a major or supporting subject in Labour Studies. This paper offers an interdisciplinary account of the changing forms and social contexts of work from ancient times to the present and beyond.
Special emphasis is placed on work in capitalist societies including the impact of new technologies.
This paper introduces students to a number of issues facing working people and beneficiaries in our society. Issues include class, democracy, power and labour's place in the world today, labour standards, the future of the welfare state and global issues for local labour. This introductory paper examines the changes in employment relations legislation and the impact on employers, unions and workers. Other issues considered include occupational health and safety, industrial training and the politics of employment relations. This paper explores methods of analysing the changing organisation and regulation of 'wage labour'.