This is a wide-ranging module that consolidates learning in relation to the concepts and practicalities of disaster management research design and methodology, including:¿



Principles of research design in disaster management.

Defining research aims and objectives.

Articulating the significance of the chosen disaster management issue.

Formulating clear and concise research questions or hypothesis.

Systematic reviews of relevant literature.

Identification and analysis of key factors, problems and challenges in disaster management.

Critical evaluation of existing research methodologies and their applicability to the chosen issue.

Ethical considerations in disaster research.

Practical aspects of data collection and management.

Data analysis and presentation.

Interpretation and synthesis of research findings.

Strategies for translating research findings into actionable recommendations in a professional context.

Assessment 1: Students will complete a single-sided no larger than A3 academic poster providing an overview on their research project, progress and hypothesis up to that point to be presented to an audience of marker and student peers. This will assess learning outcomes 1 and 2.



Assessment 2: Students will complete a 13000-word dissertation presenting the outcome of their research project along with appropriate professional recommendations. This will assess learning outcomes 3, 4 and 5.

The module will be delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, and practical exercises. Specialist guest speakers may be invited to provide insights and real-world examples. Students will engage in teamwork, sharing cross-discipline knowledge through group discussions, peer review, and communication exercises.¿ There will be regular sessions of formative assessment and academic support/tutorials will be available throughout the module.¿ Students will also have access to online resources and guidance for academic writing, data visualization, and digital communication.¿

Demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the field of Disaster Management.

Learning, Application


Clearly communicate the aim and objectives of the research project and its link to their own area or intended area of professional practice.

Problem Solving, Communication, Reflection

Design a robust, ethical and manageable research study, demonstrating the appropriateness of chosen research methods drawing on research methodology texts.¿

Learning, Enquiry


Demonstrate a systematic understanding of key factors, problems and challenges underpinning the chosen disaster management issue, critically analysing data generated through the research project, in conjunction with relevant published literature, so as to meet the research aims and objectives.¿

Knowledge and Understanding, Enquiry, Analysis, Problem Solving


Create and interpret research findings into specific and appropriate recommendations that are transferable to professional practice

Communication, Application, Reflection

Please see the library reading list links on EVision and the Blackboard VLE for the most up to date reading list and links.


The following texts are recommended reading for this module:



Babbie, E.R., 2020. The practice of social research. Cengage AU.

Balnaves, M. and Caputi, P. (2001) Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods: An Investigative Approach. London: SAGE Publications, Limited.¿¿

Clark, T., Foster, L., Bryman, A. and Sloan, L., 2021. Bryman's social research methods. Oxford University Press.

Dawson, C. (2009) Introduction to research methods: a practical guide for anyone undertaking a research project. 4th ed. Oxford: How to Books.¿¿

McMillan, K. and Weyers, J.D.B. (2014) How to complete a successful research project. Harlow: Pearson.¿

Oliver, P. (2010) The student’s guide to research ethics. 2nd ed. Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill/Open University Press.¿

Ridley, D. (2012) The literature review: a step-by-step guide for students. 2nd ed. London: SAGE.¿

Rudestam, K.E. and Newton, R.R., 2014. Surviving your dissertation: A comprehensive guide to content and process. Sage publications.¿

Walliman, N. (2018) Research Methods: The Basics. 2nd edn. Routledge.

Blackboard VLE¿

MS Teams¿

University library and associated online learning materials.¿

Live streaming/recording equipment/software.¿

The Disaster Response and Management Dissertation module is the pinnacle of the MSc Disaster Management course, offering you the opportunity to conduct original research that advances knowledge and practice in the field.



This module will ask you to apply your knowledge and established research techniques to create and interpret findings in Disaster Management and will guide you in the process of designing robust, ethical, and manageable research studies, ensuring the appropriateness of chosen methods.



You will develop an understanding of key issues in your chosen topic, critically analysing data and relevant literature to meet your research aims. The culmination of your work will be the creation and interpretation of research findings, leading to specific recommendations that are transferable to professional practice.



Look at principles of research design, defining aims and objectives, literature reviews, ethical considerations, data collection and management, and translating findings into actionable recommendations - you will enhance your research capabilities, preparing you to contribute valuable insights and solutions to the field of Disaster Management.