BUSI5A615: Research Methods (ONLINE)

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• To give students an in-depth understanding of key principles of research design and strategy in business and management, including the process of formulating researchable problems.

• Introduction to research methods
• Choosing the right method for your research
• Introduction to qualitative research
• Designing and conducting interview research
• Analysing and writing up qualitative research
• Designing case studies
• Questionnaire survey design
• Self-administered questionnaire surveys
• Quantitative data analysis

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• By the end of the module, students should have:
• A critical appreciation of the range of philosophical approaches to research from across the social sciences, including an understanding of how to apply and critique the concepts of generalisability, validity, reliability and replicability from a variety of methodological perspectives;
• An advanced knowledge of the nature, scope and relationships between quantitative and qualitative research methods in Business and Management and their appropriate selection and use;
• An understanding of the possible relations between data collection, sampling and theory-generation;
• Familiarity with a wide range of methods for data gathering including questionnaires, primary and secondary sources and various methods for recording qualitative data;
• Familiarity with a wide range of methods of data analysis including the use of qualitative and quantitative data sets, descriptive statistics and the use, modelling and interpretation of multivariate statistics;
• Familiarity with a wide range of techniques for the collection of qualitative data, including observation, interviewing and documentary approaches; and a range of techniques for their analysis, including content analysis and discourse analysis.

Subject-specific Skills:

• By the end of the module, students should have:
• The ability to formulate research questions, devise and where appropriate test hypotheses, identify and where appropriate correct for bias and error, and interpret and evaluate research results;
• Developed skills in devising, structuring and managing a research project and presenting research findings.

Key Skills:

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

• The module is delivered via online learning, divided up into study weeks with specially produced resources within each week. Resources vary according to the learning outcomes but normally include: video content, directed reading, reflection through activities, opportunities for self-assessment and peer-to-peer learning within a tutor-facilitated discussion board. Tutors provide feedback on formative work and facilitate discussion board communication as well as being available for individual consultation as necessary (usually by email and Skype).
• The summative assessment of the module is designed to test the acquisition and articulation of knowledge and critical understanding, and skills of application and interpretation within the business context.

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