Conceptualising trust and HRM & Methodological approaches to researching trust and HRM

Location: The Library, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA

Website: http://www.open.ac.uk/socialsciences/trustinhrm/

The first seminar will launch the series by focusing on two key issues — conceptualising trust and HRM and the different methodological approaches to its study. Our three keynotes (Prof Deanne den Hartog, Dr Deborah Rupp, Prof Mark Saunders) will have distinct conceptual approaches to trust and HRM and offer diverse perspectives on its study, especially the relationship between trust and control inherent in many of the HRM practices and the impact that this has. Given the diverse background of those undertaking research in this area, the seminar will provide an opportunity to consider the contribution of different ontologies and epistemologies to the study of these topics and an opportunity to debate the effectiveness of various approaches. The choice of speakers is designed to ensure a thorough and lively debate. In particular we will examine qualitative (interviews, case studies), quantitative (surveys, scale development), and experimental methodologies, as well as research design.

This seminar is likely to be of particular value to junior researchers and doctoral students seeking to enter the field, and will also offer an engaging and reflexive opportunity for those with experience.

Please visit our website for more information on the series and upcoming seminars.

The Red Cross Lecture: 'Humanitarian Space'

Location: Berrill Lecture Theatre, The Open University, Milton Keynes

Website: http://www.redcross.org.uk/events

As part of our 40th Anniversary lecture series The Open University will be hosting The Red Cross Lecture entitled 'Humanitarian Space' where Sir Nicholas Young, Chief Executive, British Red Cross will speak on Preserving neutral, independent humanitarian aid to people in crisis.

The British Red Cross, the country's leading voluntary crisis response organisation, is part of the worldwide Red Cross Red Crescent Movement and operates through 3000 staff and around 40,000 volunteers.

Prior to re-joining the Red Cross in 2001, Nick Young was Chief Executive of Macmillan Cancer Relief and he was knighted in the year 2000 for services to cancer care and was made a Freeman of the City of London in 2007.

His speech will focus on a fresh imperative for organisations called upon to provide aid at times of conflict - the availability of a neutral zone where casualties can receive help and provisions can be distributed.

Cost: £17.50 (including refreshments)

The small charge for the evening covers light refreshments and a contribution towards the Red Cross's work in this area.

For more details or to register for the event please contact Sharon Charlton before Wednesday 25 November 2009.

Homicide: Contemporary and Historical Perspectives Conference

Location: OU Library Seminar Rooms 1 & 2

Website: http://www.open.ac.uk/icccr/events.shtml

The European Centre for the Study of Crime, Policing and Justice at the Open University will be hosting a one-day Conference. Five papers will be presented; full programme details and registrations information can be found on the ICCCR website.