Critical Employment, Ethical, and Legal Scenarios in Human Resource Development

Reviewed by Steve Custer, Professor, Oakland City University on 9/10/24

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

The Hughes text on critical employment scenarios is quite comprehensive in scope. It was an eye opener to read such a wide array of topics germane to HR including but not limited to - AI, DEI, confidentiality issues, and mentoring ethics. It was easy to imagine how these situations could support classroom teaching by engaging students in groups to generate thoughtful alternatives and solutions to the issues addressed.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

Upon inspection, no visible errors were observed by this reviewer.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

Several HR hot topics were examined including the use of AI, DEI initiatives in the workplace, confidentiality concerns, etc. As a result, this reviewer immediately noticed opportunities to incorporate content in classroom exercises.

Clarity rating: 5

This text was presented in a logical fashion and was easy to read and comprehend.

Consistency rating: 5

Each scenario followed the same pattern which assisted the reader in accessing the relevant content. Moreover, the consistent nature of its presentation would enable educators to quickly search examples to add to particular lessons thereby enhancing the overall learning experience.

Modularity rating: 5

The content was assembled succinctly throughout and could be retrieved in a timely fashion to support course learning objectives as needed.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The table of contents assisted the reader to locate just what was needed to access particular areas of interest. Each scenario provided just the right amount of information to paint the right picture for the reader to present the topic and either discuss the material in a large group or to assign the examples in group role-play activities. Well organized.

Interface rating: 5

No interface issues were experienced by this reviewer.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

This reviewer did not notice any glaring grammatical issues.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

This reviewer did not notice any offensive or insensitive material.

Comments

Overall, this reviewer found this text to be very helpful in providing real world scenarios to enhance classroom teaching.

Reviewed by Rachel Ego, Affiliate Professor, Metropolitan State University of Denver on 3/29/24

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

This text covers a number of Ethical topics with which managers and HR managers may find themselves faced. The discussion questions are widely encompassing and the Supplemental Readings suggested for each topic are contemporary and wonderful!

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The cases presented are well-thought-out and are likely situations. Issues of Turnover, Privilege, Training, Motivation, and DEI are all nicely covered.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

Published in 2020, the book covers topics that are still relevant. Given the format, new cases could easily be added to keep up with the changing field of HR ethics, however, there are some timeless topics here that will stand on their own for many more years. Training, Supervising, and Mentoring will always be areas where managers can learn and grow. The book starts to address AI and over the next few years, this will grow exponentially fast. I look forward to updates in this area.

Clarity rating: 5

The cases are straightforward, clear, and relevant. These can be adapted for HR and leadership tracks to help students and professionals stretch and grow their skills.

Consistency rating: 5

The formatting is nicely laid out. By having a clear case, thought-provoking questions, and a strong list of resources for each topic, there is something here for everyone.

Modularity rating: 5

This is a wonderful aspect of the book. The cases are broken down by topic and can be used out of order or in parcels as needed. However, the topics are organized in a way that would flow if one wanted to use this text fully, it flows together well. The color and formatting used in the text are thoughtful and logical.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The flow is logical, well-laid-out, and useful for the reader. I believe that this text in whole or in parts could be easily used to add value to leadership and HR courses. While placed in a logical order, I could see this as easily moved around to accommodate current topics or other course needs.

Interface rating: 5

The interface is clear and straightforward. I like the layout for its simplicity and clarity.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No grammatical errors were observed.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

The cultural significance is clear in this text. Helping HR professionals and managers to navigate ethically challenging situations will always be a valuable part of the learning and academic experience. Practice in low-stakes situations will help professionals to be able to handle even more difficult situations.

Comments

I look forward to incorporating several of the cases into my courses. I believe this text nicely bridges the worlds of HR and leadership to show realistic situations where students and professionals can practice thoughtful decision-making, practice supporting their decisions with reliable sources, and work together to improve professional situations. I especially appreciate the Supplemental Readings for each topic. This gives students examples of academic references and a head start of using academic journals for research.