An introduction to business studies B120

Presentation pattern October to March

April to September
Module description
This module will introduce students to the different internal and external elements of a
business and help them to understand the context in which a business operates. They will
explore the common aims and characteristics of business and what makes them different.
Business structures, cultures and functions are identified and the political, social, economic,
technological and ethical considerations affecting business are introduced. The module
consists of five study books: What is a business?; An introduction to human resources in
business; An introduction to marketing in business; An introduction to accounting and finance
in business; Other ways of looking at business, plus a Study Companion to guide students
through the module.
Person specification
The person specification for this module should be read in conjunction with the generic
person specification for an associate lecturer at The Open University.
As well as meeting all the requirements set out in the generic person specification, you should
have:
 a first degree (or equivalent) in a discipline relevant to the programme – Business
Studies, Finance, HRM etc.
 experience of teaching adults and guiding assessment at pre-degree or undergraduate
levels
 experience in supporting teaching by online media
It would be an advantage to have:
 business experience
 experience of running face-to-face tutorials
 knowledge of current issues and developments in the business world
Additional information
You will be expected to:
 run three face-to-face tutorials
 facilitate online forums.

Module related details - a full explanation can be found on the website

Credits awarded to the student for the successful 30

completion of a module:
Number of assignments submitted by the student: 4
Method of submission for assignments: 1a
Level of ICT requirements: 2
Number of students likely to be in a standard group: 20
Salary band: 4
Estimated number of hours per teaching week: 5.5
There may be opportunities for ALs to undertake associated assessment work for which there
will be additional payment and about which you will be contacted separately if applicable.