PGR Introduction to Research Design and Data Analysis

Code

BUSI4701

School

Business

Level

4

Credits

10

Semesters

Spring UK

Summary

The module introduces qualitative and quantitative research designs covering a range of data collection techniques. The module introduces students to the use, interpretation and presentation of an appropriate selection of techniques for the analysis of interview data, and other qualitative data sources. In terms of quantitative research designs, the module covers measurement issues - validity and reliability issues, descriptive analysis and techniques to test for differences and for relationships.

Target Students

All Business School PhD Students. In addition, other MPhil/PhD students meeting pre-requisites and subject to compliance with module choice requirements, as listed in the degree programme specification.

Classes

• One 6-hour lecture

This module is block taught in week 22 (Monday to Friday) as follows: Asynchronous lecture - 6 times in 1 week, 6 hours.

Assessment

• 50% Coursework 1: 1,500 words.
• 50% Coursework 2: 1,500 words.

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

This module develops a knowledge and understanding of:
• Tools and techniques for transforming (big) data into useful information for business analysis and decision support
• Qualitative & quantitative research methods and approaches

Intellectual skills

This module develops:
• Being able to solve complex problems and make decisions: establish criteria, using appropriate decision-making techniques including identifying, formulating and solving business problems; and the ability to create, identify and evaluate options; the ability to implement and review decisions
• Using information and knowledge effectively in order to abstract meaning from information and to share knowledge, including the use of quantitative skills

Professional practical skills

This module develops:
• The ability to conduct research and enquiry into business and management issues either individually or as part of a team through research design, the collection and analysis of qualitative data, synthesis and reporting
• The ability to conduct research and enquiry into business and management issues either individually or as part of a team through research design, the collection and analysis of quantitative data, synthesis and reporting
• The ability to recognise and address ethical dilemmas, corporate social responsibility and sustainability issues, applying ethical and organisational values to situations and choices

Transferable (key) skills

This module develops:
• Effective communication: networking, listening, oral and written communication of complex ideas and arguments, using a range of media, including the preparation of business reports
• High personal effectiveness: critical self-awareness, self-reflection and self-management; time management; conflict resolution, displaying commercial acumen, the ability to continue to learn through reflection on practice and experience

Conveners

• Dr Paraskevas Vezyridis