Major developments and methodological discussions in business and management research are critically reviewed. More practical challenges associated with 'Mode 2' knowledge production are also sensitively addressed within a project management framework. Arguments concentrating on the key theme of establishing knowledge claims by developing a core understanding of ontology, epistemology and methodology are examined. In addition practical methods for delivering solutions-focussed projects are introduced; analytical skills and knowledge are developed in order that students may produce a critical research proposal for a comprehensive dissertation or project.

The learning strategy for this module requires students to commit 150 learning hours (including assessment). Guided independent learning is an integral part of the module learning strategy.

The module comprises lectures, seminars/ workshops - that supports group and individual activities. Tutor-led sessions will introduce key themes in business and management understanding, and will encourage critical discussion of various research approaches and perspectives. Group based studies, presentations, short lectures, discussions and simulations will facilitate understanding.

Libraries for textbooks and journals
Lecture notes and handouts
The Internet

Saunders, M., Lewis, P. and Thornhill, A., 2009, Research Methods for Business Students, London, FT Prentice-Hall.

Other assigned contemporary text(s) deemed appropriate dependent on the focus of the student's assignment, for example: qualitative and/or quantitative texts; conceptual-theoretical / applied consultancy and other academic sources.

An individual research proposal of 2000-3000 words that could feasibly be adopted for a masters' level traditional research dissertation (experimental-scientific/conceptual-theoretical) or a more practically-focussed project (applied consultancy)

1. DEMONSTRATE A COMPETENT UNDERSTANDING OF RESEARCH METHODS, AND METHODOLOGICAL AND PHILOSOPHICAL UNDERPINNINGS APPLICABLE TO RESEARCH AND APPLIED PROJECTS, WITHIN THE BROAD FIELD OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT.

2. TO UNDERTAKE A CRITICAL REVIEW OF RECENT AND RELEVANT RESEARCH APPROPRIATE TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FIELD OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT UNDERSTANDING AND THE SOLUTION OF MANAGERIAL PROBLEMS.

3. TO PLAN AND PRODUCE AN ORGANISED AND LOGICALLY PLANNED AND EXECUTED RESEARCH OR CONSULTANCY APPROACH THAT WILL CONTRIBUTE TO BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT THEORY AND/OR PRACTICE AND/OR POLICY.