A research proposal of 3,000 words weighted at 100%.

1. Identify a suitable research topic/aim/question that is appropriate for a Masters Dissertation in International Business Management
2. The purpose and contribution of the critical literature review within an independently executed research project.
3. Developing a theoretical and methodological framework for subsequent research approaches and empirical analysis.
4. Developing a critical understanding of a range of research philosophies and their various ontological and epistemological assumptions that underpin different research questions and designs.
5. The nature and merits of quantitative and/or qualitative research methodologies.
6. Various research strategies and data collection methods and how these can be applied within the context of different research philosophies and inquiries.
7. Using existing documents, organisational and historical data.
8. The design of data collection instruments such as questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, ethnography, etc., and the importance of producing valid and reliable results.
9. The role of ethics in research and the associated responsibilities of the researcher towards different stakeholders.
10. The merits and implications of a range of both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods.
11. Quantitative data analysis, including the use of descriptive and complex statistics generated through appropriate quantitative data analysis software.
12. Qualitative data analysis and making sense of raw non-standard data including the role of qualitative data analysis software.
13. Reflecting on the merits and limitations of the chosen methodology and the implications for the quality and credibility of the research findings.
14. Reflecting on the engagement with the research process and how this contributes to development of the researcher and practitioner.

1. Identify and justify an appropriate research topic of relevance to International Business Management. Enquiry

2. Critically analyse, review and evaluate the existing literature and research evidence relating to the chosen topic and subject area.
Analysis

3. Undertake a critical assessment of a range of research philosophies, strategies and methods, evaluating and justifying their appropriateness and adequacy for investigating particular/specific research questions.
Analysis
Application

4. Reflect on the ethical implications involved in the design and execution of an independent research project.
Analysis

5. Produce a research proposal that incorporates the above and identifies and justifies an appropriate research question/aim and objectives.
Application
Problem Solving
Communication

The learning strategy is based on weekly three-hour tutor-led seminars that will include the delivery of lecture materials and the completion of a range of exercises and tasks both within and outside of the sessions.
Group discussions and problem-solving based on student participation and reflection.

Library
online journal articles
Blackboard
CIPD

Horn, R. (2012) Researching and Writing Dissertations: A Complete Guide for Business and Management Students, 2nd edition, London: CIPD.
Janokwicz, A. (2005) Business Research Projects. London: Thomson Learning.
Murray, N., and Hughes, G. (2008) Writing Up Your University Assignments and Research Projects: A Practical Handbook. Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill Open University Press.
Ridley, D. (2012) The Literature Review: a Step-by-Step Guide, 2nd edition. London: Sage.
Saunders, M., Lewis, P., and Thornhill, A. (2012) Research Methods for Business Students, 6th edition. Harlow: FT Prentice Hall.