JOURNAL OF HIGHER EDUCATION THEORY AND PRACTICE

A Longitudinal Review of Labor Relations Coursework in U.S.

Business Schools: 1977-2002-2010

Author(s): David B. Stephens, Robert D. Stephens, John P. Kohl

Citation: David B. Stephens, Robert D. Stephens, John P. Kohl, (2012) "A Longitudinal Review of Labor Relations Coursework in U.S. Business Schools: 1977-2002-2010," Journal of Higher Education Theory and Practice, Vol.12, Iss. 4, pp. 89 - 104

Article Type: Research paper

Publisher: North American Business Press

Abstract:

This study investigates the status of the labor relations course in the undergraduate business school curriculum, comparing the results of our 1977 study with two replications (2002, 2010) of the same survey. The initial survey revealed the course occupied secondary status in the curriculum but cited arguments as to why its importance should be elevated. The 2002 replication showed a continuing decline in the status of the course but showed that related courses in mediation and negotiations were being added. By 2010 labor courses had declined even more but many more business schools were offering related conflict resolution courses, thus allowing students the opportunity to develop critical skills in labor relations and conflict resolution.