A Management Report (7,000 words) weighted at 100% which will assess all Learning Outcomes.

1. Identify a suitable topic for the project.. Plan and design a project that has strategic relevance and the potential to add value to the organisation.
2. Critically discuss existing literature, contemporary HR policy and practice relevant to the chosen issue Knowledge of literature and contemporary HR practice.
3. Research methods -understanding different methods of data collection (e.g. interviews, questionnaires, focus groups, participant observation), the strengths and weaknesses of each and the circumstances in which they might be used.
4. Data analysis - the use and value of different analytical tools for interpreting data. Systematic data analysis, identification and explanation of emerging patterns and how to deal with conflicting evidence. Effective interpretation and presentation of data.
5. Drawing of sensible conclusions from data collected and presented; production of realistic, timely and effectively justified recommendations and costed implementation plans; awareness of potential resistance to recommendations and how this might be overcome.
6. Developing and presenting a report -the importance of clear aims, objectives and appropriate terms of reference. Awareness of time management and project development. Potential barriers and how they might be overcome. The structure and content of a management report. Principal techniques of communication and persuasion appropriate to a business report. Presentation skills.
7. Developing the skills of critical reflection.

1. Identify a business issue that is of strategic relevance to the organisation
Enquiry

2. Critically analyse and discuss existing literature, contemporary HR policy and practice relevant to the chosen issue
Analysis

3. Compare and contrast the relative merits of different research methods and their relevance to different situations
Enquiry

4. Undertake a systematic analysis of quantitative and/or qualitative information and present the results in a clear and consistent format.
Application
Communication

5. Draw realistic and appropriate conclusions and make recommendations based on costed options Problem Solving

6. Develop and present a persuasive business report.
Application

7. Write a reflective account of what has been learned during the project and how this can be applied in the future.
Reflection

Most of the project will be largely self-directed with tutor supervision to provide guidance and formative feedback as appropriate. General knowledge and skills (e.g. conducting a literature review, Harvard referencing and research methods, quantitative techniques) will be developed via tutor-led workshops supported by study materials and practical sessions.

This module may be offered in block delivery, with concentrated learning sessions facilitated by an appropriate tutor. The use of action learning sets will be a major tool in enhancing the experience. . The learning strategy will focus on ‘problem and practice-based learning’. Outside of this, time material will be available on the VLE (Blackboard) to support these contact sessions and to encourage deeper learning. Where appropriate, workplace mentors will support and encourage their learners with access to relevant company information and people.

Library
online journals
CIPD
Individual tutor support for report supervision and feedback.

FOR CIPD STUDENTS

Anderson, V. (2013) Research Methods in Human Resource Management: Investigating a Business Issue, 3rd edition, London: 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.