INMR62-Research Methods

Module Provider: Business Informatics, Systems and Accounting
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2018/9

Email: k.nakata@henley.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module is designed to support students who are embarking on a postgraduate research project. It covers the entire process of research from the formulation of research proposal to dissemination of results. It guides students in the preparation and planning of research projects through the knowledge, skills and awareness of elements required in approaching research, including: writing a research proposal, literature review, research paradigms, methods and techniques, project planning and management, ethical issues, writing research papers and dissertations, and oral presentations.

Aims:

This module aims to enable students:

• to understand and appreciate the different methods of scientific investigation and data analysis, to include the use of qualitative and quantitative methods.


• to enable the student to interpret and critically appraise research findings with respect to design and data analysis.


• to enable the student to assess the various approaches critically and to adopt appropriate methods and skills for the design and management of research projects.

Assessable learning outcomes:

Preparation of a research proposal for a dissertation project through an exploration of research methods, data collection and analysis, ethical and political issues.

At the end of the module the student should demonstrate:

• a critical and practical understanding of the methods employed in research;


• an ability to apply different approaches to the collection of data or information;


• an understanding of qualitative and quantitative analysis of material;


• an awareness of ethical and access issues related to industrial collaboration both in terms of data collection and utilisation of data;


• an ability to compare and critically evaluate research material from the literature;


• further development of presentation and report writing skills.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

• Opening: What is Research?


• Identifying and Outlining Research Ideas


• Literature Review


• Writing a Research Proposal


• Research Paradigms


• Methods and Techniques: Quantitative Methods


• Methods and Techniques: Qualitative Methods


• Validity and Validation


• Research Project Planning


• Writing a Dissertation


• Ethical Issues and Professionalism


• Management and Execution of a Research Project

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

A range of teaching and learning methods will be employed, but will focus largely on lectures, group work and independent supported learning.

Summative assessment- Examinations:
NONE

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

• A preliminary literature review of 3000 words (50%) due on week 3 in spring term

• A full research proposal of 6 pages (50%) due on week 8 in spring term

Formative assessment methods:

Students are required to carry out the following (not assessed):

• Submit an outline project proposal of 500 words (not assessed) as a basis for discussion with potential supervisors and the development of the full project proposal.


• Give a short presentation on their proposed research project during the class to receive feedback from lecturers and peers.

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

Overall module average of 50%

Reassessment arrangements:
Students will re-submit the failed component of the assessment.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 20 April 2018