The learning strategy for this module requires students to commit 300 learning hours (including assessment). This will include 48 hours of class support and 252 hours of independent and self directed study.

The class sessions will include formal lectures, case study analysis and group discussions based on student experiences in the subject area. Students will be encouraged to integrate their work based experiences with new knowledge and skills developed in the classroom as the module progresses.

This module is delivered in three stages (across three teaching terms); firstly the research and investigation process is explored; followed by the development of a project proposal investigating a topic related hairdressing, beauty therapy or complementary therapy, in the context of the effective management of a salon, culminating in a pilot study into the chosen topic.

Research & Investigation
This stage covers the skills required to research a topic effectively, including:
- The development of research and planning skills - literature search, review
- Sources of information - data, descriptive statistics, quantitative methodology, qualitative methodology, ethics in research, awareness of other research methods, designing a questionnaire, validity and reliability
- Referencing
- Setting aims and objectives

The importance of reflecting on personal development will also be examined.

Project Proposal
This stage will cover the various aspects of developing an effective project proposal, including:
- Introduction
- Aims
- Objectives
- Methodology - initiation, planning, execution, control, validation, close out and evaluation.
- Details of the project
- Timescales
- References

Pilot Study
This stage provides an opportunity to apply research skills in a pilot study, including:
- Investigation
- Report on findings
- Conclusions

Staffordshire University electronic resources and off-campus library facilities
The Blackboard website

The assessment comprises three elements, each produced and handed-in at the end of each stage:

Research & Investigation
The presentation of literature review relating to an aspect of hairdressing, beauty therapy or complementary therapy, using appropriate sources and presented using standards academic conventions. (750 words) (25%) (Learning Outcome 1)

Project Proposal
The development of a project proposal relating to an aspect of hairdressing, beauty therapy or complementary therapy. (1,000 words) (30%) (Learning Outcome 2)

Pilot Study

Produce a report relating a pilot study detailed in the Project Proposal (1500 words) (45%) (Learning Outcome 3)

Bryman. A. & Bell, E. (2007) Business Research Methods Oxford University Press
Gill,J.and Johnson,P. (2002) Research Methods for Managers, Sage
Dawson, C. A (2007) Practical Guide to Research Methods: A User Friendly Manual for Mastering Research Techniques & Projects How To Books
Moon, J. (2006) Learning Journals: A Handbook for Reflective Practice and Professional Development, Routledge
Pedler, M., Burgoyne, J. and Boydell, T. (2006) A Manager's Guide to Self-Development Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill.