Module BUSI50015: METHODS OF INQUIRY (DL)

Department: Economics, Finance and Business (Business)

BUSI50015: METHODS OF INQUIRY (DL)

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To equip students with the necessary training both to be able to assess the academic research and literature in the fields of business and management and to prepare them to undertake the dissertation.

Content

• Understanding Quantitative Research
• Discrete-Choice Scales
• Behavioural Coding
• Performance Outcome Metrics
• Understanding Qualitative Research
• Interview and Focus Group Techniques
• Ethnographic Research and Management Research Ethics
• Developing Management Research

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the module, students should:
• have a critical appreciation of how empirical research is conducted in a business context;
• have a critical appreciation of ethical issues in business and management research.

• By the end of this module, students should:
• be able to conduct advanced literature searches to identify important literature and outstanding research questions;
• be able to write an evaluative review of the literature;
• be able to conduct a Masters Level research project from beginning to end. This involves the following: identifying an interesting and practical research question at an appropriate advanced level; developing a method for answering the question; conducting the research, including managing all aspects of the research project; interpreting the results.

Written communication; planning, organising and time management; problem solving and analysis; using initiative; computer literacy.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The module is delivered in discrete Units. These are designed to enable the learning outcomes to be achieved through a combination of specially written material, directed reading, reflection through self-assessed assignments and guidance for further reading. Module tutors provide feedback on formative work and are available for individual consultation as necessary (by email, telephone, post or fax).
• The summative assessment is in the form of a written assignment to test students’ knowledge and understanding of key issues and techniques associated with undertaking research in business and management.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

1 Compulsory Tutor Assessed Assignment, (1,500 words).

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University