UK COLLEGE BUSINESS AND COMPUTING Module Booklet

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UK COLLEGEBUSINESS AND COMPUTING

Module BookletCourse: EDEXCEL BTEC (HND) BUSINESS

Group: Ed excel Level

Module: BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT

Module type: CORE

Module Code: Unit 1 –Y/601/0546

Module Credit: 15

Teaching Period: (15 weeks)

Level: 4 (QCF)

Contact Hours: (20x3=60)

Lecturers: 15 weeks

Revision Clinic: 3 week

Feedback and assignment guidance: 2 weeks

Lecturer: Jackline Mutugi

Start date: 3rd June 2013

Day: Mondays

Time: 10.00 to 1.00

Room: Lords House

Term: Summer

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CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION, AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

2. MODULE OUTLINE AND TEACHING METHODS

3. READING AND COURSE PREPRATION

4. LECTURE WITH DETAILED COURSE PROGRAMME AND OBJECTIVES

5. ASSESSMENT DETAILS

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1. INTRODUCTION

Organisations have a variety of purposes that depend on why theywere established. Some operate for profit, whilst others do not.Organisations structure themselves and operate in ways thatallow their objectives to be met. Every organisation has a rangeof stakeholders whose interests need to be satisfied, butstakeholders have competing interests that may be hard toreconcile.

Businesses operate in an environment shaped by the government,competitors, consumers, suppliers, and international factors.Learners will understand that some influences on the businessenvironment are direct and clear, for example taxation policieson corporate activities. Other influences are less clear,perhaps coming from the international arena and sometimes withonly an oblique impact on the national business environment.

It is within this business environment that organisationsfunction and have to determine strategies and a modus operandithat allow them to meet their organisational purposes in waysthat comply with the relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.In addition, business markets take various forms and thestructure of a market enables an understanding of howorganisations behave. In this unit learners will consider howdifferent market structures shape the pricing and outputdecisions of businesses, as well as other aspects of theirbehaviour.

Aim:

The aim of this unit is to give learners the knowledge andunderstanding of how a business unit can strategically organiseand plan for likely future outcomes in order to be successful.

Key Objectives:

Learning Outcomes and assessment criteria:

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:

1. Understand the organisational purposes of businesses

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Categories of organisation: legal structure; type eg private company, public company, government, voluntary organisation, co-operative, charitable; sector (primary, secondary tertiary)

Purposes: mission; vision; aims; objectives; goals; values; profits; market share; growth; return on capital employed (ROCE); sales; service level; customer satisfaction; corporate responsibility; ethical issues

Stakeholders: owners; customers; suppliers; employees; debtors; creditors; financial institutions (banks, mortgage lenders, credit factors); environmental groups; government agencies (central government, local authorities); trade unions

Responsibilities of organisations: stakeholder interests; conflict of expectations; power influence matrix; satisfying stakeholder objectives; legal responsibilities eg consumer legislation, employee legislation, equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory legislation, environmental legislation, health and safety legislation; ethical issues eg environment, fair trade, global warming, charter compliance eg Banking Code.

2. 2 Understand the nature of the national environment in which businesses operate Economic systems: the allocation of scarce resources; effective use of resources; type of economic system eg command, free enterprise, mixed, transitional. The UK economy: size (gross domestic product, gross national product); structure; population; labour force; growth; inflation; balance of payments; balance of trade; exchange rates; trading partners; public finances (revenues, expenditure); taxation; government borrowing; business behaviour eg investment, objectives, risk awareness; cost of capital; consumer behaviour; propensity to save; propensity to spend; tastes and preferences Government policy: economic goals; fiscal policy: control of aggregate demand; central and local government spending; Public Sector Net Borrowing (PSNB) and Public Sector Net Cash Requirement (PSNCR); euro convergence criteria, monetary policy;interest rates; quantitative easing; private finance initiative (PFI); competition policy (up-to-date legislation including Competition Act 1998, Enterprise Act 2002); Competition Commission, Office of Fair Trading; Directorate General for Competition); European 4 | P a g e

Commission); sector regulators eg Ofgem, Ofwat, Civil Aviation Authority; Companies Acts; regional policy; industrial policy; enterprise strategy; training and skills policy.

3. Understand the behaviour of organisations in their market environment Market types: perfect competition, monopoly, monopolistic competition, oligopoly, duopoly; competitive advantage, strategies adopted by firms; regulation of competition Market forces and organisational responses: supply and demand, elasticity of demand; elasticity of supply; customer perceptionsand actions, pricing decisions; cost and output decisions; economies of scale, the short run; the long run, multi-national and transnational corporations; joint ventures, outsourcing; core markets; labour market trends; employee skills, technology;innovation; research and development; core competencies; business environment (political, economic, social, technical, legal, environmental); cultural environment.

4 Be able to assess the significance of the global factors that shape national business activities

Global factors: international trade and the UK economy; market opportunities; global growth; protectionism; World Trade Organisation (WTO); emerging markets (BRIC economies – Brazil, Russia, India, China); EU membership; EU business regulations and their incorporation in to UK law; EU policies eg agriculture(CAP), business, competition, growth, employment, education, economics and finance, employment, environment, science and technology, regional); labour movement; workforce skills; exchange rates; trading blocs (eg monetary unions, common markets; customs unions, free trade areas); labour costs; trade duties; levies; tariffs; customs dues; taxation regimes;

international competitiveness; international business environment (political, economic, social, technical, legal, environmental); investment incentives; cost of capital; commodity prices; intellectual property; climate change eg KyotoProtocol, Rio Earth Summit; third world poverty; the group of 20(G-20); global financial stability.

Section 2: Learning Outcomes and assessment criteria

LO1. Understand the organisational purposes of businesses 5 | P a g e

1.1 identify the purposes of different types of organisation 1.2 describe the extent to which an organisation meets the objectives of different stakeholders 1.3 explain the responsibilities of an organisation and strategies employed to meet them

LO2 . Understand the nature of the national environment in whichbusinesses operate

2.1 explain how economic systems attempt to allocate resources effectively 2.2 assess the impact of fiscal and monetary policy on business organisations and their activities 2.3 evaluate the impact of competition policy and other regulatory mechanisms on the activities of a selected organization

LO3 Understand the behaviour of organisations in their market environment

3.1 explain how market structures determine the pricing and output decisions of businesses 3.2 illustrate the way in which market forces shape organisational responses using a range of examples 3.3 judge how the business and cultural environments shape the behaviour of a selected organisation

LO4 Be able to assess the significance of the global factors that shape national business activities

4.1 discuss the significance of international trade to UK business organisations 4.2 analyse the impact of global factors on UK business organisations 4.3 evaluate the impact of policies of the European Union on UK business organisations.

Section 3: Teaching and learning Methods6 | P a g e

It is recommended that a range of strategies be used to deliver this unit. Discussion, debate, individual workplace comparisons and use of case studies are all elements of this unit. Where groups of learners are from one organisation or sector, consideration of cultural issues can be based upon the needs of the organisation or sector. Video footage, not necessarily relating to business or management, or acting could be used to illustrate some aspects of a business. The use of investigative tools is recommended to encourage both self awareness and the practical application of the insights gained.

Section 4: Assessment Methods -Summary

A key feature of the assessment strategy for this unit is the practical application of the theoretical content to an organisational situation at strategic level. The assessment will consist of an individual report with an organization chosenfor the purpose to address all the learning outcomes.

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Programme SpecificationAccrediting Body: EDEXCEL Course: BTEC HND IN BUSINESS Unit: 1 BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT Wk Lecture Schedule Outcome of session Activity/

seminar and formative assessment

Resources

1 Introduction to the module. Understand the organisational purpose of businesses. Identify the purpose of different types of organisations. (1.2,1.2).

Introduction to the module, mode of assessment, awarenessof the awarding body,assessment criteria and the mode of assessment.

Background of the expectations ofthe awarding body.

Module handbook.

2 Organisational objectives linked with different stakeholders (1.3)

Define organisationalprinciples, purposes,objectives and aims. Map and classify stakeholders.

Addressing learning outcome 1.3

Power point slides

3 Responsibilities of an organisation and strategies employed to meet them (1.4)

Analyse organisational responsibilities using appropriate techniques based on practical problems.

Addressing learning outcome 1.4.

Power point slides

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4 Nature of the national environment in which businesses operate. Effective allocation ofresources (2.1)

Explain how economic systems allocate resources.

Addressing learning outcome 2.1.

Power point slides

5 Assessing the impact of fiscal and monetary policy on business organisations and their activities (2.2)

Explain the impact ofthe fiscal and monetary policy on businesses.

Discussion and addressing learning outcome 2.2.

Power point slides.

6 Evaluate the impact of competition policy and other regulatory mechanisms on the activities of an organisation (2.3)

Describe a range of regulatory mechanismsof different organizations.

Discussion and addressing learning outcome 2.3.

Case study and power point slides.

7 Explain how market structures determine the pricing and output decisions of businesses (3.1).

Explain organisational behaviour in responseto changing environmental factors.

Discussion and addressing learning outcome 3.1.

Case study and power point slides.

8 Investigate how market forces shape organisational responses (3.2).

Analyse and evaluate a range of market forces using Pestel analysis, swot analysis and Porter’sfive force model.

Addressing learning outcome 3.2.

Case study and power point slides.

9 Assess how the business and cultural environments shape the behaviour of an

Explain organisation culture using the

Discussion and addressing

Case study and power point

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organisation (3.3). Schein model of cultural levels.

learning outcome 3.3.

slides.

10 Explore global factors that shape national business activities and discuss the significance of international trade to UK business organisations (4.1).

Describe and analyse global factors that shape national business activities.

Discussion and addressing learning outcome 4.1.

Case study and power point slides.

11 Analyse the impact of global factors on UK business organisations (4.2).

Analyse global factors effects on UKorganisations.

Addressing learning outcome 4.2.

Power point slides.

12 Evaluate the impact of policies of the European Union on UK business organisations (4.3).

Analyse European Union impact on UK businesses.

Discussion and addressing outcome 4.3.

Power point slides.

13 Revision14 Revision15 Revision16 REVISION17 REVISION

18 FEEDBACK AND ASSESSMENT19 FEEDBACK AND ASSESSMENT 20 FEEDBACK AND ASSESSMENT

Recommended text and links:

Ian Worthington and Chris Britton, 2009, The Business Environment HNC/HND Business: Organizations, Competition and Environment Core Unit 4 (BPP) Claire Capon 2009, Understanding the Business Environment (Pearson)

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Journals and newspapersHarvard Business Review Journal of Business Management The Financial Times and other daily newspapers which contain a business section and market reportsWebsiteswww.bized.ac.uk provides case studies appropriate for educational purposes.www.cmi.co.uk -The Chartered Institute of Management’s site contains a useful knowledge centre www.ft.com -The Financial Times business sections

www.thetimes100.co.uk -Multimedia resources

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Lecturer: Campus: Contact details: Assessment:The module will be assessed meeting all the LO as specified by the awarding body, Ed Excel.Please read the instructions carefully while addressing the tasks specified. Contribution: of the moduleOutline Details: report approx 4000 words. Details enclosed in the assignment brief.Teaching and Learning Activities

The module tutor(s) will aim to combine lectures with tutorial activities. This environment will provide opportunities for the student to understand the course material through case study andtext and to apply it in a practical way. The intent is to facilitate interactive class activities, and discussion about the significant role of research in a global and local business environment.

2.3 Teaching EthosThe college’s approach towards teaching and learning is simple and effective. The main aim of UKCBC is to assist learners in maximising their potential by ensuring that they are taught clearly and effectively. This will enable students to engage in the learning environment and promote success in both their academic studies and subsequent career.

2.3.1 Methods of Delivery:LECTURES:These will be developed around the key concepts as mentioned in the indicative course content and will use a range of live examples and cases from business practice to demonstrate the application of theoretical concepts. This method is primarily used to identify and explain key aspects of the subject so that learners can utilise their private study time more effectively.

SEMINARS:These are in addition to the lectures. The seminars are designedto give learners the opportunity to test their understanding of the material covered in the lectures and private study with the help of reference books. This methodology usually carries a set 14 | P a g e

of questions identified in advance. Seminars are interactive sessions led by the learners. This method of study gives the learner an excellent opportunity to clarify any points of difficulty with the tutor and simultaneously develop their oral communication skills.

CASE STUDIES: An important learning methodology is the extensiveuse of case studies. They enable learners to apply the concepts that they learn in their subjects. The learners have to study the case, analyse the facts presented and arrive at conclusions and recommendations. This assists in the assessment of the learner’s ability to apply to the real world the tools and techniques of analysis which they have learnt. The case study serves as a supplement to the theoretical knowledge imparted through the course work.

Plagiarism:Any act of plagiarism will be seriously dealt with according to the colleges and awarding bodies’ regulations. In this context the definition and scope of plagiarism are presented below: Plagiarism is presenting someone’s work as your won. It includes copying information directly from the web or books without referencing the material; submitting joint coursework asan individual effort; copying another student’s coursework; stealing coursework form another student and submitting it as your own work. Suspected plagiarism will be investigated and if found to have occurred will be dealt with according to the college procedure. (For further details please refer to the plagiarism policy and the student code of conduct.)

Assessment:The module will be assessed meeting all the LO as specified by the awarding body, Ed Excel.Please read the instructions carefully while addressing the tasks specified. Contribution: 100% of the moduleOutline Details: report approx 4000 words. Details enclosed in the assignment brief

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ASSESSEMENTUnit: 9 – Learning Hours: 60 Hours. Self-learning hours: 90 hours.Course: HND Business – Level CREDIT VALUE: 15 CREDITSTerm: Lecturer: Jackline Mutugi Verifier: sunita Kotta

Learners NameRegistration NumberLearners Declaration: I certify that the work submitted for this unit is my own:Signed:Hand out Date: Submission Date:

The Following Sections to be completed by the assessor:Center Name: UKCBCCenter Number: Please note that the assessors signature below denotes conformation that he/she has in no way influenced the outcome of the assessment: Assessors Name: Jackline MutugiAssessors Signature:

Has the unit been Internally Verified? Y/NDate of verification:Internal verifiers signature:Internal verifiers assignment brief:

Due DatesIssue DateDue Task- 1 12th JulyDue Task- 2 29th July Final Due date 23rd SeptDue Task- 3 16th August Administration

date , e-learning

27th JanDue Task - 4 16TH September

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blocked after this date

Learning outcomesOn successful completion ofthis unit a learner will:

Assessment criteria for passThe learner can:

LO1 Understand theorganisational purposes ofbusinesses

1.1identify the purposes of different types of organisation

1.2   describe the extent to which an organisation meets the

objectives of different stakeholders1.3   explain the responsibilities of an organLO2 Understand the nature 

of thenational environment inwhich businesses operate

2.1   explain how economic systems attempt to allocate

resources effectively2.2   assess the impact of fiscal and monetary policy on

business organisations and their activities

2.3   evaluate the impact of competition policLO3 Understand the behaviour of

organisations in their marketenvironment

3.1   explain how market structures determine the pricing

and output decisions of businesses3.2   illustrate the way in which market forces shape

organisational responses using a range of examplesLO4 Be able to assess the

significance of the globalfactors that shape nationalbusiness activities

4.1   discuss the significance of international trade to UK

business organisations4.2   analyse the impact of global factors on UK business

organisations4.3   evaluate the impact of policies of the E

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Outcomes Evidence for the

criteria to pass.Assessors decision

Internal verification decision. (agree,disagree)

TASK 1: The objective for this task is to address and exhibit an understanding to the Organizational purposes of the business. You are required to address the task as specified and research Tesco PLC to address the learning outcomes as specified: Please note that the research and subjective skill needs to exhibit transferable skill by reflecting it to the chosen organization. Answers reflected without reflective practice will be referred. Learning outcome 1LO1 Understand theorganisational purposes ofbusinesses

P 1.1 Explain briefly the following types of organisaitons and their purposes:

a) Virgin Group LTD

b) Tescos PLCc) MC Donalds d) National Health

services (NHS) UK

e) A corner shop near where you live.

P1.1(P,M,D)

P1.1 (P,M,D)

P1.2 Considering Tescos PLC, describethe extent to which it meets the objectives of its different stakeholders.

P1.2(P,M,D)

P1.2 (P,M,D)

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P1.3  Considering Tescos PLC, explain its various responsibilites as an organisaiton and the strategies it employs to meet them.

P1.3(P,M,D)

P1.3 (P,M,D)

Summarized Feedback for Task 1(reflecting 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, Pass, merit and distinction.) IV comments towardsTask 1

TASK 2 The objective of this task is to address and exhibit an understanding to the nature of the national environment in which business operate. To address this Learning outcome, research Tesco Plc and address the task as specified. Please note that the research reflecting only subjective skills and without reference to the chosen scenario will be a referred work.

LO2 Understand the nature of thenational environment in which businesses operate

P 2.1   Giving relevant examples, briefly explain how different economic systems such as:command, free enterprsie,mixed and transitional systems attempt to allocate resources effectively

P2.1(P,M,D

P2.1(P,M,D

P2.2 Considering Tescos PLC UK, assess the impactof fiscal and monetary policy on their activities

P2.2(P,M,D

P2.2(P,M,D

P 2.3 Explain the impct ofcompetititon policy and other regulatory mechansism on the activities of Tescos PLC UK.

P2.3(P,M,D

P2.3(P,M,D

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Summarized Feedback for Task 2(reflecting 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, Pass merit and distinction.)IV comments towards Task 2

TASK 3: The objective of this task is to understand the behaviour of organizations in their marketing environment. To address this learning outcome e you are suppose to continue your research on the chosen organization, Tesco PLC and address the learning outcome as specified. LO3 Understand the behaviour oforganisations in their market environment

P3.1   Explain how marketstructures determine the pricing and output deicisons of Tescos PLC UK.

P 3.1(P,M,D)

P3.1(P,M,D)

P 3.2    Illustrate how market forces shape Tescos PLC UK responses using a range of examples.

P3.2(P,M,D

P3.2(P,M,D)

P 3.3   Judge how the business and cultural envoronments shape the behaviour of Tescos PLC UK.

P3.3(P,M,D)

P3.3(P,M,D)

Summarized Feedback for Task 3(reflecting 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, Pass merit and distinction.)

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IV comments towards Task 3

TASK 4 The objective of this task is to understand the global factors and assess the significance of the global factors that shape national business activities. To address this task continue your research with Tesco PLC and address the Learning outcomes as specified. Please note work reflected without address to the chosen organization will be refereed. TASK 4LO4 Be able to assess The significance of the global factors that shape nationalbusiness activities.

P 4.1    Discuss the significance of international trade to Tescos PLC UK.

P 4.2 Analyse the impact of global factors on Tescos PLCUK.

P4.3   Evaluate the impact ofpolciies of the European Union on Tescos PLC UK.

Summarized Feedback for Task 4(reflecting 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, Pass merit and distinction.)IV comments towards Task 4Merit grades awarded

M1 M2 M3 P1 P2 P3 P4

Distinction gradesawarded

D1 D2 D3 Resubmit :

Any other commentsGrade given by the Assessor:Pass Merit Distinction Assessors Signature: Date:IV Grading Check: Comments if any:

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Agree Disagree Modify grade to

IV signature:

Date:

Students feedback:

Student Signature: Date:Any act of plagiarism will be seriously dealt with according to the colleges and awarding bodies’ regulations. In this context the definition and scope of plagiarism are presented below: Plagiarism is presenting someone’s work as your won. It includes copying information directly from the web or books without referencing the material; submitting joint coursework as an individual effort; copying another student’s coursework; stealing coursework form another student and submitting it as your own work. Suspected plagiarism will beinvestigated and if found to have occurred will be dealt with according to the college procedure. (For further details please refer to the plagiarism policy and the student code of conduct.)

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ASSIGNMENT

TASK 1 to TASK 4: You are required to follow the instructions asspecified towards each task and support with a research by usingsupportive materials like books, websites, etc., and give afeedback on the findings by relating your arguments to therelevant case studies as specified towards each task:

Task 1.The objective for this task is to address and exhibit an understanding to the Organizational purposes of the business. You are required to address the task as specified and research Tesco PLC to address the learning outcomes as specified: Pleasenote that the research and subjective skill needs to exhibit transferable skill by reflecting it to the chosen organization. Answers reflected without reflective practice will be referred.

P1.1. Explain briefly the following types of organisatons and thier purposes:

f) Virgin Group LTDg) Tescos PLCh) MC Donalds i) National Health services (NHS) UKj) A corner shop near where you live.

P 1.2 Considering Tescos PLC, describe the extent to which it meets the objectives of its different stakeholders.

P 1.3 Considering Tescos PLC, explain its various responsibilites as an organisaiton and the strategies it employs to meet them.

TASK 2:The objective of this task is to address and exhibit an understanding to the nature of the national environment in whichbusiness operate. To address this Learning outcome, research Tesco Plc and address the task as specified. Please note that

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the research reflecting only subjective skills and without reference to the chosen scenario will be a referred work. P 2.1 Giving relevant examples, briefly explain how different economic systems such as: command, free enterprsie,mixed and transitional systems attempt to allocate resources effectively. P 2.2Considering Tescos PLC UK, assess the impact of fiscal and monetary policy on their activities. P 2.3Explain the impct of competititon policy and other regulatory mechanisms on the activities of Tescos PLC UK.

TASK 3The objective of this task is to understand the behaviour of organizations in their marketing environment. To address this learning outcome e you are suppose to continue your research on the chosen organization, Tesco PLC and address the learning outcome as specified.

P 3.1 Explain how market structures determine the pricing and output decisionsi of Tescos PLC UK.

P 3.2 Illustrate how market forces shape Tescos PLC UK responses using a range of examples.

P 3.3 Explain how the business and cultural envoronments shape the behaviour of Tescos PLC UK.

TASK 4 The objective of this task is to understand the global factors and assess the significance of the global factors that shape national business activities. To address this task continue yourresearch with Tesco PLC and address the Learning outcomes as specified. Please note, work reflected without addressing to theorganization chosen for the purpose will be refereed.

P 4.1 Discuss the significance of international trade to Tescos PLC UK.

P 4.2 Analyse the impact of global factors on Tescos PLC UK.

P 4.3 Evaluate the impact of polciies of the European Union on Tescos PLC UK.

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Assignment Guidelines:

Use a standard report structure, Word-process the report and use Normal script of a proper font size 12.

Produce an academic report, detailing the above issues with a word limit of 4000 to 4500 words.

Complete the title page and sign the statement of authenticity. The Assignment sheet should be attached in the front. Submit the document in a folder in the form of a file as well as

a soft copy on the submission date. It should be uploaded on E-Learning platform before the deadline

and submitted to -------- and sign the submission form of the college.

Assignments submitted after the deadline will not be accepted unless mitigating and may be entitled for a late fee.

Collusion and Plagiarism must be avoided. Start each answer on a new page and pages should be numbered.

Highlight each question clearly. Include a Bibliography at the end of the assignment and use the

Harvard referencing system. All work should be comprehensively referenced and all sources

must be fully acknowledged, such as books and journals, websites (include the date of visit), etc.

Try to give the page numbers, publishers' details and the year ofpublication

In order to pass you need to address all the LO In order to get a merit you need to first pass and then address

the characteristics of M1, M2,M3

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In order to get a Distinction you need to first pass, address allthe merit characteristics and then address the characteristics ofD1, D2 and D3.

Use a common format for the questions, for example: Introduction (analyze the question.) Underpinning Knowledge (write about the relevant theory/points) Applied knowledge(Data Analysis) Conclusions and Recommendations (summarizing the whole scenario

keeping in view pass, merit, distinction criteria.)

Student feedback form with the Assessment Grid indicating their pass, merit and distinction:Name: Registration Number:Unit: Management accountingOutcomes/criteria: Indicative

characteristicsPossible evidence

Feedback

P1.

P2.

P3.

P4.

As per the assessment criteria specified for pass

Do

Do

Do

Task 1

Task 2

Task 3

Task 4

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Merit Description:M. Identify and apply strategies tofind appropriate solutions.

. Relevant theories and techniques have been applied.. Effective judgments have been made.. Complex problems with more than one variable have been explored.. An effective approach to study and research has been used.

M2. Select/ design and apply appropriate methods/ techniques.

. A range of methodsand techniques has been applied. . A range of sourcesof information used.. The selection of methods and techniques justified.. Complex information/data have been synthesized and processed..Appropriate learning methods/ techniques applied.

M3. Present and communicate appropriate findings.

. Appropriate structure and approach has been used.. Logical and coherent arguments have been presented

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. Technical languageaccurately used.. A range of methodsof presentation has been used.. Familiar and unfamiliar contexts have been used.. It is appropriate for familiar and unfamiliar audiences.

Distinction Description:D1. Use critical reflection to evaluate own work and justify valid conclusion.

. Synthesis has beenused to generate andjustify valid conclusions. The validity of results has been judged. Self-criticism of approach has taken place.. Evaluation has taken place using defined criteria. Realistic improvements have been proposed against defined characteristics for success.

D2. Take responsibility for managing and organizing activities.

Autonomy/independence demonstratedSubstantial activities/projects or investigations have been planned, managed and organized.The unforeseen has been accommodated.

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The importance of interdependence has been recognized.

D3. Demonstrate convergent, lateraland creative thinking

Ideas generate and decisions taken Convergent and lateral thinking have been appliedCapacity for innovation and creative thought hasbeen used. Receptiveness to newideas has demonstrated.Unfamiliar contexts have been applied.

Learning outcomesOn successful completion ofthis unit a learner will:

Assessment criteria for passThe learner can:

LO1 Understand theorganisational purposes ofbusinesses

1.2identify the purposes of different types of organisation

1.2   describe the extent to which an organisation meets the

objectives of different stakeholders1.3   explain the responsibilities of an organLO2 Understand the nature 

of thenational environment inwhich businesses operate

2.1   explain how economic systems attempt to allocate

resources effectively2.2   assess the impact of fiscal and monetary policy on

business organisations and their activities

2.3   evaluate the impact of competition policLO3 Understand the behaviour of

organisations in their marketenvironment

3.1   explain how market structures determine the pricing

and output decisions of businesses3.2   illustrate the way in which market forces shape

organisational responses using a range of examples

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LO4 Be able to assess thesignificance of the globalfactors that shape nationalbusiness activities

4.1   discuss the significance of international trade to UK

business organisations4.2   analyse the impact of global factors on UK business

organisations4.3   evaluate the impact of policies of the E

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