Final answer:
The term that describes the ability of an employee to make decisions about task scheduling and performance is 'autonomy' (c). Autonomy is a key factor in job satisfaction and is essential for employees' sense of control and motivation, which can lead to higher productivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The extent to which a job allows an employee to make decisions about scheduling different tasks and deciding how to perform them is called autonomy. Autonomy is intrinsically linked to job satisfaction and overall well-being at work. It allows individuals to feel a sense of ownership and control over their work, which can be a powerful motivator and contribute to a positive work environment. According to various theories and studies, such as those mentioned by Erikson regarding psychosocial development and the transformational leadership style, employees who experience autonomy often demonstrate higher productivity and engagement.
Autonomy is also considered to be the most strongly predictive factor of overall job satisfaction, even more so than financial rewards or the nature of the work content itself. This sense of independence fosters rational development, supports moral development, and aligns with the pursuit of happiness within one's career. Telecommuting, for example, offers a level of autonomy by allowing employees to set their own hours and work from home, adapting their work schedule to fit their personal life, thus possibly enhancing the work-life balance.