Research,the application of ideas from the literature, problem solving and critical analysis (REPORT)
MDNAQ
sample_questions.docxChanging Context of Work Friday Seminar
GLOBALISATION
Allstars 5
Is globalisation and the continuing deregulation of markets leading to a homogenised culture?
Rationale: Westernisation of cultures is continuing to occur around the world as markets become more deregulated and as globalisation reaches all corners of the world. The notion that people anywhere are able to buy coke, wear Levis and eat McDonalds whilst their culture is being eroded is a serious issue that must be addressed.
ALAM:
Will an increase in production due to globalization lead to a higher rate of unemployment in Australia? Rationale- Statistics already indicate that Australian companies are outsourcing to other countries to make products at a cheaper price.
As globalization increases will resources be scarce and what will be the potential impact on the environment? Rationale- As the balance between 3rd worlds and 1st worlds lessen will we run out of resources.
TECHNOLOGY:
Team 1:
How do you propose an acceptable level of unemployment for humans, as technology becomes more prominent in the workforce and is able to exceed the production levels of humans?
Rationale: Human labor is obviously more inefficient than robotics, and it would be in the interest for most organizations to use machinery in the production process. There are only so many IT related supervisory jobs than can be created, and as technology develops they could potentially self-regulate. The population is ever increasing, and thus the question is posed.
How will we be able to achieve a work/life balance as work becomes more accessible through the innovation of technology?
Rationale: Emails, phone calls, and word documents are available to us 24/7. With constant contact obtainable amongst colleagues, it makes it difficult to turn off from work. Family time is thus compromised.
Achievers:
Will technology eventually take over our lives completely?
Rationale: Like WallE, will technology take over to the point where we are so reliant on technology we lose our human characteristics and nature. Should we limit technology until we understand it before it surpasses our cognition? Rationale: We need some basic control over technology, because technology is more effective than the human mind, or what the human mind can conceive.
The Graduates:
Whatevs:
How will technology help the development of creating new jobs? Rationale: Level of skills will increase due to advances in technology; this would likely see an increase in jobs that require higher skilled workers. This issue will greatly affect the job security in our future generation as there will also be a rise in the unemployment rate in unskilled jobs. How will technology change the future of communication between employees and customers? Will this have positive or negative effects on the work environment? Rationale: Technology is advancing and the increase of being constantly connected requires workers to communication in new ways. This can enhance flexibility as more organisations will use technology in innovative ways. Downside would be the work life balance as there will be little face to face communication the norm will become to communication via technological platforms.
Allstars 5
What are the consequences for the work/life balance with changing attitudes towards work flexibility and practices?
Rationale: People are working more hours than ever before. Workers are also always connected to their work via email, smartphones and the internet. The balance between work and life is tipped in favor of the former. Due to technological advancements people are able to work remotely from home/overseas and more flexible hours with the increased usage of technology by businesses.
GENDER/DIVERSITY:
ALAM:
Will the future see family roles decided by income? Rationale- The readings indicate there are more women entering the workforce as well distribution of wages. Technology advances have lead people to work from home and anywhere meaning income can be generated by anyone.
Allstars:
How significant will the roles of women be in the future? What major roles will continue? Will there be regulation around women’s contribution?
Rational: based on our major theme of gender and diversity and our major findings through articles supporting the positive trend of women in the workplace. Therefore, we want to further develop an understanding of the future roles and potential roles of women.
In terms of work life balance, how have societies’ views changed in regards to the role of men and women in participating in the workforce? How will a work life balance be achieved- through work, social life and family life? Will more men stay at home while more women step up in the workforce, or will this cause guilt?
Rational: based on the significant issue of work life balance, and we would like to expand our knowledge on ways in which families are able to compromise and develop an understanding in balancing work, social and family life style.
