MBM3105 - Research Methods

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

1 explain and apply the principles of research design and strategy in business related research
2 assess and select appropriate qualitative and quantitative strategies for data collection for business related research
3 demonstrate competence in and understanding of the application of a range of methods for data analysis
4 Plan, manage, conduct and disseminate the results of business related research in a way that is consistent with objectivity and ethical guidelines.

Content:

In business related research there is no single approach that is universally accepted.
However, “it is possible to detect certain shared assumptions which form ground rules for good research that are accepted by the vast majority of experts in the field” (Denscombe, 2002, 2)
This module outlines these shared assumptions which are as follows. An investigation should:
• Have clearly stated aims, that are
• Related to existing knowledge, and that are
• Investigated within limitations imposed by resource constraints, in an effort to
• Contribute something new to knowledge, using
• Precise and valid data
• Collected and used in a justifiable way, to produce
• Findings from which generalizations can be made, from an approach that is
• Open minded and self-reflective, and
• Recognizes the rights and interests of participants, and is
• Cautious about claims based on the findings
• Conforms to ethical principles

Learning and Teaching Information:

A two hour teaching block is used each week and is comprised of a formal presentation followed by an examination /discussion of the application of principles to practical business research issues.
In these discussions students are encouraged to assess how the principles apply to their own research interests

Lecture
Contact hours: 10
Number of Groups: one

Discussion/ application
Contact hours: 10
Number of Groups: one

Assessment: