Corporate Responsibility and Accountability

Aims and objectives

• Describe the trends and drivers re-shaping the dynamics of the social economy
• Recognise that the responsibility for social impact comes from the interaction of business, social enterprises, government (and its public service agencies), philanthropic foundations and individuals, and community-based organisations 
• Select appropriate governance, management and value sets in each sector
• Critically evaluate concepts such as social entrepreneurship, social enterprise, social investment, social innovation and collaborative governance
• Analyse global trends and organisations that effect social change and impact.
  

Teaching methods

Seminars and workshops

Assessment

Individual assignment: 20-30%
Individual case exercise: 25-35%
Syndicate project: 40-50%

Content

Corporate Responsibility and Accountability examines how business manages its social, environmental and economic impact on society. The unit first reviews the historical evolution and development of the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility and Corporate Citizenship and why it is now a key part of managing the business enterprise. Second, the unit examines what acting responsibly means for corporations in terms of the market, community, environment, workplace and government. Issues covered include business and human rights, business-community partnerships, corporate philanthropy, the human resource management implications of CSR, business and the environment and businesses' relationship with government. Third, the unit examines how business accounts for its behaviour and impact in society through sustainability reporting and the role of external assurance and outlines debates on the appropriate role of government policy in either regulating and/or enabling responsible corporate behaviour.