Topics

- The nature and purposes of research.
- Formulation of a research topic and preparing a research proposal
- Conducting a literature review related to the research topic
- Methodology and data collection
- Research management

The learning strategy for the module requires students to commit 600 learning hours, of this there will be 30 hours of class support and 570 hours of independent and self directed study.

The research supervision classes will be conducted through out the block 3 period. Supervisors will provide support and guidance to students include research methods seminar. Seminars will include guest speakers responsible for research project. The majority of the module is conducted through independent learning and reference to an assigned supervisor, who will convene at mutually agreed intervals. Communication between both parties can be, if agreeable, through face-to-face, e-mail and telephone.

This integrative module addresses a number of the Quality Benchmark Standards, most particularly the ability to acquire and analyse data and information, evaluate published research and conduct research into teaching practice. The research seminars and most particularly the project develop ability in communicating effectively both orally and in writing.

The VLE (NETED)
The Internet
Word Processing software for use in the coursework
Spreadsheet software like EXCEL/SPSS
Printed and electronic journals.

Core Text
Creswell, J. W. (2008) Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches
Jonker, J. and Pennink B. (2010) The Essence of Research Methodology: A Concise Guide for Master and PhD Students in Management Science

Recommended Text
Franses, P. H. and Paap, R. (2010) Quantitative Models in Marketing Research
Hart, C. (2005) Doing Your Masters Dissertation, Sage.
Patton M. Q., (2001) Qualitative Research & Evaluation Methods, Sage.
Render, B., Stair, R. M., and Hanna, M. E. (2008) Quantitative Analysis for Management (10th Edition)
Badillo, P. and Lesourd, J. (2010) The Media Industries and their Markets: Quantitative Analyses
Lusk, J. and Shogren, J. F. (2008) Experimental Auctions: Methods and Applications in Economic and Marketing Research (Quantitative Methods for Applied Economics and Business Research)
Yin, R. K. (2008)Case Study Research: Design and Methods

Selected reading from the area of specialisation


Journals:
Journal of Research Practice
Selected Journal from Pathway Specialisation

Assessment methods which enable student to demonstrate the learning outcomes for the Module:
- Research proposal (minimum 3,000 words)

Present to the class a 15 minutes research proposal identifying the project area, the key literature, research questions (if paradigm approximate), the research paradigm data collection methodology (including instruments) and proposed analysis methods.

Outcome 1, 2, 3, 4

Approval for dissertation and allocation of supervisors will be given after a suitable proposal has been identified and presented. Possible topics will cover a range of issues of the programme title. Students, for example, may wish to research their own practice in the discipline or may wish to diversify in interdisciplinary research. This might take the form of action research in relation to practice based projects, design, development and critique of current and proposed assessment methodologies. Students where possible and suitable may work with existing BITE staff who teach programmes relevant to the students subject area. Other dissertations may be more theoretical and involving policy reviews, critique of ethical issues in education. In all cases supervisors will be allocated according to expertise.

- Dissertation (9,000 words)

Conduct a formal investigation to a publishable standard, into an aspect of management practice.

Outcome 1,2,3,4

To pass this module student must obtain overall 50% marks.

Pass criteria

Demonstrates ability to systematically describe a specific organisation in terms of management theories and appropriate contemporary practice.
Provides some critical analysis of operational aspects of same organisation. Reflects adequately on potential improvements to same organisation and is well referenced. In order to pass a module, students need to attain at least a minimum of 30% in all elements of assessment.

Distinction criteria,

Evidences a subtle understanding of the position of the organisation in terms of a range of appropriate theory and contemporary practice.
Focuses upon the critical analysis of relevant operational aspects of the organisation, with appropriate contrast with other organisational forms and practice. Provides a well-supported, reasoned and pragmatic set of recommendations. Evidences wide and appropriate reading in the references supplied.