This module aims to develop an in-depth understanding within a student’s chosen domain of management and business knowledge, and for the student to use this knowledge to analyse a management problem or issue. A preparation phase of the module is included to provide the students with the skills necessary in problem analysis and research in order that they can undertake and independent research project. Thereafter, independent, guided, study and research are used to develop both theoretical and practical critical-thinking skills, and to present their research, analysis and findings.

(LO1) Demonstrate a critical awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of different types of information;

(LO2) Demonstrate awareness of current research and advanced scholarship in relation to their chosen topic;

(LO3) Demonstrate critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights in relation to their chosen dissertation topic and area of professional practice;

(LO4) Critique the strengths and weaknesses associated with those methodological approaches in relation to their chosen topic area;

(LO5) Plan how they will identify and collect appropriate and meaningful evidence in order to investigate fully their selected organisational issue;

(LO6) Plan a large project;

(LO7) Demonstrate critical awareness of current theories, models, concepts, ideas and writing related to the management problem;

(LO8) Critically evaluate current research and scholarship;

(LO9) Select and apply appropriate models and frameworks in order to analyse the management issues and to formulate solutions, or to test effectively, any hypothesis presented;

(LO10) Evaluate, select, justify and apply appropriate research methods to the chosen area of study, in order to ensure that the evidence generated, its analysis and the conclusions drawn from it are valid, reliable and ethical;

(LO11) Research and present convincing and reasoned conclusions and recommendations on the evidence collected.

(S1) Adaptability

(S2) Problem solving skills

(S3) Numeracy

(S4) Organisational skills

(S5) Communication skills

(S6) Lifelong learning skills

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Teaching Method 2 - Supervision

The syllabus will cover:

Literature survey and conceptual frameworks;

Locating research questions within a theoretical framework;

Factors influencing selection of research methodology and method and gathering and analysing data;

Research ethics;

Constructing a project (research) plan;

Presenting the research, findings and recommendations;

Style and formats of presenting the dissertation.