4BU015 The Responsible Business Assignment Brief 2026 | WLV

4BU015: The Responsible Business Assignment Brief

Task 1: Individual or Group Debate Presentation

Students are required to participate in a 15-minute debate presentation (using PowerPoint), either individually or in groups (maximum of 4 members). The debate will focus on a contemporary issue related to responsible business practices.

Topics (Choose one)

• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) vs. Profit Maximisation: Should businesses prioritise CSR over profit maximisation?
• Ethical Supply Chains: Is it possible to achieve fully ethical supply chains in a globalised economy?
• Social Enterprises: Are social enterprises more effective than traditional businesses in addressing social issues?

Requirements: Each presentation should include:

• Introduction to the topic and its relevance
• Arguments: Present both sides of the debate topic, supported by relevant research and examples.
• Conclusion: Summarise key points and present a final stance

References: Harvard referencing style. List all sources cited in the presentation.

Task 2: Written Assignment

Students are required to submit a 1500-word essay on one of the following topics related to responsible business practices. The essay should demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the chosen topic, supported by academic research and real-world examples. A reflective section is required for you to critically assess your learning experience of how it has influenced your understanding of responsible business practices.

Topics (Choose one)

• Ethical Leadership: Analyse the impact of ethical leadership on organisational culture and performance using the case study of Timpson Service Company. Discuss how Timpson’s leadership practices align with principles of ethical leadership and the outcomes of these practices on their business operations and employee relations.

OR

• The Impact of Corporate Scandals: Examine the effects of a major corporate scandal on stakeholder trust and corporate reputation. Choose a company that has experienced a significant scandal, and discuss the causes, consequences, and recovery strategies employed. 

Requirements: The essay should include:

Introduction (200 words): Outline the topic, its significance, and the main arguments to be discussed.

Main Body (800 words): Develop arguments supported by academic research, case studies, and real-world examples.

Conclusion (200 words): Summarise the key points and present your final thoughts.

Reflective Section (300 words): Answer the specific questions listed below to assess your learning experience and personal insights: 

Reflect on your learning journey throughout this module by answering the following questions:

1. Learning Experience:

• What specific concepts or ideas from this module have had the most significant impact on your understanding of responsible business practices? Provide examples of how these concepts have influenced your thinking.

2. Personal Insights:

• Can you identify any changes in your attitudes or perspectives towards business ethics and corporate responsibility as a result of this module? Describe a specific instance or discussion that led to this change.

3. Application of Knowledge:

• How do you plan to apply the knowledge gained from this module to your future professional endeavours? Provide a scenario or situation where you might utilise these insights.

4. Challenges and Overcoming Them:

• Describe any challenges you faced while engaging with the course material or completing the assignment. How did you overcome these challenges, and what strategies helped you succeed?

5. Future Learning:

• Based on what you have learned, what areas of responsible business practices are you interested in exploring further? Explain why these areas are important to you and how you might pursue this interest.

References: Harvard referencing style. List all sources cited in the essay.

Submission Guidelines

Debate Presentation: To be scheduled in class; week 11 or week 12
Written Assignment: Submit electronically via Canvas by submission deadline. 

Additional Resources

Recommended readings and resources can be found on Canvas.
Workshops and tutorials will be available to support students in preparing their presentations and essays. 

Learning outcomes    

• LO1: Demonstrate knowledge of aspects of organisational and personal responsibility
• LO2: Present current debates relating to the role of business in society
• LO3: Evaluate the scope of personal responsibility
• LO4: Reflect on personal efficacy