LEARNING OUTCOMES
1. Competently and systematically demonstrate knowledge and understanding, and critical appraisal of appropriate methodologies and techniques applied to a particular research project focusing on Business Psychology
Knowledge & Understanding
Learning
2. Demonstrate and critically apply knowledge and understanding in a chosen area of Business Psychology
Application
Enquiry
Knowledge & Understanding
Reflection
3. Investigate and evaluate potential suitable research designs and elect and justify an appropriate research structure
Analysis
Learning
Problem Solving
4. Evidence appropriate data gathering, analysis, synthesis and critical review of findings
Analysis
Enquiry
Reflection
5. Produce an organised, planned and executed research document within the field of Business Psychology following appropriate academic and sector standards
Communication
ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENT DETAILS
An individual research document based on academic research within the remit of Business Psychology that addresses all five Learnings Outcomes.
INDICATIVE CONTENT
The module facilitates the exploration and critical review of a substantial individual research enquiry within the field of Business Psychology. It demonstrates individual knowledge, skills and competency development - offering experience of producing a competent research-based piece of work.
WEB DESCRIPTOR
This dissertation module provides students with the opportunity to conduct in-depth research in the field of Business Psychology. Students will systematically demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of appropriate methodologies and techniques, critically appraising their application to a specific research project. The module allows students to explore and apply their knowledge in a chosen area of Business Psychology, investigating and evaluating potential research designs to justify the selection of an appropriate research structure. Throughout the dissertation process, students will gather, analyse, and synthesise data, critically reviewing their findings to contribute valuable insights to the field. The final deliverable is an organized, well-planned, and executed research document that adheres to academic and sector standards, showcasing the student’s ability to conduct rigorous and impactful research in Business Psychology.
LEARNING STRATEGIES
The learning strategy for this module is based on students committing a total of 400 hours of activities towards achieving the learning outcomes. These will be split between 6 hours of direct contact with a Dissertation Supervisor and 394 hours of directed, guided and self-study, together with preparation for and completion of the Dissertation. Learning support material and individual supervisor will be provided for the module.
The module comprises supervision. 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 VLE.
TEXTS
Bell, E., Harley, B. & Bryman, A. (2022). Business Research Methods, 6th edition, OUP Oxford
Bell, E. & Bryman, A. (2018). Business Research Methods, 5th edition, OUP Oxford
Brewerton, P.M. and Millward, L.J., 2001. Organizational research methods: A guide for students and researchers. Sage
Cassell, C. and Symon, G., 2012. Qualitative organizational research: core methods and current challenges
Horn, R. (2012) Researching and Writing Dissertations: A complete Guide for Business and Management Students, 2nd edition, London: CIPD.
Landers, R.N. and Behrend, T.S., 2024. Research Methods for Industrial and Organizational Psychology: Science and Practice. Taylor & Francis
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.
RESOURCES
The University Library and Learning Resources
Westlaw e-library
The module VLE (LMS T & L material)
VLE learning support material to be provided for independent /self-directed learning
Module handbook
Directed Supervision
Academic Journals
Industry Reports