Module Information
Course Delivery
Delivery Type | Delivery length / details |
---|---|
Lecture | 10 x 2- hour lectures |
Seminars / Tutorials | 5 x one hour tutorials |
Assessment
Assessment Type | Assessment length / details | Proportion |
---|---|---|
Semester Assessment | Assignment 1 - 2500 words | 50% |
Semester Assessment | Assignment 2 - 2500 words | 50% |
Supplementary Assessment | Repeat each failed element - Assignment 1 | 50% |
Supplementary Assessment | Repeat each failed element - Assignment 2 | 50% |
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module, students should be able to:
* Demonstrate an understanding of the nature and importance of research in a business and management or marketing context
* Demonstrate an understanding of, and distinguish between, different research approaches and critically evaluate the ethical implications of each approach
* Identify, analyse and evaluate literature relevant to a specific research topic
* Perform both primary and secondary data collection, identify and evaluate the limitations and benefits of different approaches
* Analyse and evaluate data using a variety of tools and techniques
* Communicate the findings of a research project appropriately
Aims
This module provides students with an understanding of the importance of an objective approach to research and the importance of self-reflexive learning. It aims to develop the skills that students will need in professional practice in Management, Marketing and related business functions. The module also introduces students to the practice of research, including ethics and methodology, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods, and forms an essential underpinning to final year modules.
Brief description
The purpose of this module is to provide students with the knowledge, understanding and skills necessary for effective professional practice and completion of a business research project. Students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of how to identify a problem and develop a research question; choose a research method and reflect on their positioning to the research; be able to construct a critical argument; perform data collection, analysis and present their findings appropriately.
Content
- The Nature of Research in Business Disciplines
- Formulating and Clarifying the Research Topic
- Deciding on the Research Approach
- Research Ethics
- Critically Reviewing the Literature
- Collecting Primary Data
- Collecting Secondary Data
- Analysing Qualitative Data
- Analysing Quantitative Data
- Writing and Presenting the Research Project
Module Skills
Skills Type | Skills details |
---|---|
Application of Number | Obtain and interpret mathematical and statistical information |
Communication | Read in different contexts and for different purposes Write for different purposes and audiences |
Improving own Learning and Performance | Show awareness of own learning styles, personal preferences and needs, and barriers to learning |
Information Technology | Use a range of commonly used software packages Prepare and input data Present information and data Use email /internet appropriately and effectively |
Personal Development and Career planning | |
Problem solving | Identify problems Identify factors which might influence potential solutions Develop creative thinking approaches to problem solving Evaluate advantages and disadvantages of potential solutions Construct a rational proposal in response to a problem |
Research skills | Understand a range of research methods Plan and carry out research Produce academically appropriate reports Evaluate research methods, design and procedures |
Subject Specific Skills | Students should develop their knowledge and understanding of the formulation, content, and presentation of research in a business and management context |
Team work |
Reading List
Recommended Text(2003.) Research methods for business students /[ed] Mark Saunders, Philip Lewis, Adrian Thornhill. 3rd ed. Prentice Hall Primo search Bryman, Alan (2003.) Business research methods /Alan Bryman and Emma Bell. Oxford University Press Primo search Burns, Robert B. (2000.) Introduction to research methods /Robert B. Burns. 4th ed. SAGE Primo search Gill, John (2002 (various p) Research methods for managers /John Gill and Phil Johnson. 3rd ed. SAGE Primo search Jankowicz, A. D. (2000.) Business research projects /A.D. Jankowicz. 3rd ed. Business Press Thomson Learning Primo search
Notes
This module is at CQFW Level 6