A range of formative and summative assessment methods will be used which are appropriate to the teaching and learning delivery method, mode of attendance and proposed weighting criteria used for this module, and as reflected within the Scheme and Award specifications.
A contextualised and approved assessment strategy and schedule will be published to students by award.

Complete a 3000 word Research Informed Study into sector challenges. The students will be provided with a relevant sector case study which includes data and they are required to apply the skills of research methods to solve a defined problem. (Weighted 100%)

Formative feedback will be provided in a variety of forms, including written feedback on proposed titles, outline assignment plans and full drafts
Feedback may take place via full-class, group and individual tutorials

The aim of this module is to provide an underpinning knowledge and skills required to undertake a Work Based Project.

The following topics will be included:

- Identify the advantages and disadvantages of research methodologies using research to evaluate the main points.
- Discuss research tools used in the data provided and identify strengths and weaknesses of these methodologies.
- Analyse and interpret data provided and present findings.
- Identify trends and displaying data.
- Evaluating existing research
- Elementary field research techniques
- Qualitative and quantitative methods
- Ethical research
- Data analysis
- Populations
- Normal distribution
- Confidence Intervals

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (50 hours)
All hours will be delivered as Lectures / workshops
50 hours - Part time
50 hours - Full time

Guided Independent Study: (100 hours)
100 hours Part time
100 hours Full time

Moodle VLE
Classroom with SMARTboard and projector

Book lists and reference resources will be located in module handbooks and updated annually (amendments confirmed at the Annual Planning Event).
Text books
Bedford, D. (2013) Study skills for foundation degrees. 2nd ed. Abingdon, Oxon: Routledge
Burns, T. & Sinfield, S. (2012) Essential Study Skills. 3rd Ed. London: Sage
Costley, C., et al (2010) Doing work-based research: approaches to enquiry for inside-researcher., London: Sage Publications
Cottrell, S. (2010) Skills for Success: The Personal Development Planning Handbook. 2nd Ed. Palgrave MacMillan
Dawson, C. (2009) Introduction to Research Methods: A Practical Guide For Anyone Undertaking a Research Project. Oxford: How To Books Ltd.
Denscombe, M. (2003) The Good Research Guide. (2nd ed). (2003) Maidenhead: Open University Press.
Lee-Davies, L. (2007) Developing work and study skill. Andover Hampshire: Cengage Learning
McNiff, J. (2011) All you need to know about action research. 2nd ed. London: Sage Publications
Neville, C. (2010) The complete guide to referencing and avoiding plagiarism. 2nd ed. Maidenhead, Berkshire: Open University Press
Thomas, J., R. Nelson, J.K. (2011) Research Methods in Physical Activity 6th edition. Champaign IL: Human Kinetics.

1. Demonstrate knowledge of main methods of enquiry and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of quantitative and qualitative styles of research investigation. (Enquiry, Knowledge & Understanding)

2. Use quantitative and/or qualitative research to identify current trends within the sector and organisational environment (Analysis, Knowledge & Understanding, Learning)

3. Demonstrate knowledge of how research can elucidate and help solve applied problems in the subject area (Analysis, Knowledge & Understanding, Learning, Problem Solving)

4. Apply and reflect on the use of research skills in the workplace environment in an ethical and professional way. (Application, Reflection)