Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2009-2010 (archived)

Module BUSI4W415: Quantitative Methods for Social Science Research II

Department: Economics, Finance and Business (Business)

BUSI4W415: Quantitative Methods for Social Science Research II

Type Tied Level 4 Credits 15 Availability Available in 2009/10 Module Cap None.

Prerequisites

  • None

Corequisites

  • As specified in Special Regulations

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None

Aims

  • Provide students with the advanced quantitative skills necessary to pursue empirical research on change processes in micro and macro organisation behaviour;
  • Provide students with the advanced quantitative skills required to estimate models and analysing longitudinal data, and interpret the estimates from such models;
  • Provide students with the advanced quantitative skills required to analyse event counts, linear deterministic models of change, and pooled cross-sectional and time series data analysis.

Content

  • Logit and probit models
  • Sample selection models, discrete time methods for event history analysis
  • Event history analysis
  • Nonparametric descriptive methods
  • Exponential transition rate models
  • Multiple destination states
  • Parametric models of time-dependence
  • Semi-parametric transition rate models
  • Problems of model specification
  • Analysis of count data
  • Analysis of pooled cross-sectional time series data

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • have an advanced knowledge of quantitative methods for analysing organisational change processes.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • be able to use several advanced quantitative tools to conduct their own empirical investigations into organisational change processes, and interpret the results at an advanced level;
  • have practised problem solving skills at an advanced level and the use of specialised software.
Key Skills:
  • have enhanced their computer literacy skills;
  • have the capacity for sustained independent work and learning at an advanced level and the ability to learn through critical reflection on practice and experience;
  • be able to think independently, including problem-solving ability and the ability to operate and exercise appropriate judgement in complex and specialised contexts;
  • be able to understand complex research, critically analyse it, and communicate ideas about it to peers;
  • have the ability to accept a high level of personal responsibility, including an ability to evaluate and resolve any ethical dilemmas which may arise, in research and professional practice.

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

  • A combination of lectures, seminars and group work will contribute to achieving the aims and learning outcomes of this module. Summative assessment by written assignment and applied data analysis will test students' ability to demonstrate what they have learned in the conduct and analysis of a particular issue in depth.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Workshops 10 weekly 3 hours 30
Preparation and Reading 120
Total 150

Summative Assessment

Component: Empirical problem sets (take-away) Component Weighting: 35%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Empirical problem sets (take-away) 100%
Component: Written assignment Component Weighting: 65%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written assignment 3000 words maximum 100%

Formative Assessment:

Formative assessment, and feedback, may take a number of forms such as answers to questions either discussed during a seminar, or posted on DUO; discussions with teaching staff during consultation hours, or via e-mail.


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