2021/22 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue
LUBS5866M Methods of Enquiry
15 creditsClass Size: 200
Module manager: Bill Gerrard
Email: W.J.Gerrard@lubs.leeds.ac.uk
Taught: 1 Feb to 31 May View Timetable
Year running 2021/22
This module is not approved as an Elective
Objectives
The module will enable students to undertake research, critically analysing and assimilating complex information in the delivery of practical solutions to business related problems. In order to achieve this students will consider differing research approaches along with key design and analysis techniques. Hence they will be able to critique the various research strategies like primary and secondary data collection techniques with an appraisal of the levels of bias and error. Evaluating the issues of reliability and validity will be integrated throughout this module.Learning outcomes
Knowledge Outcomes:
On completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Evaluate appropriate research designs and methods when investigating organisational problems/issues in a range of applied contexts
2. Critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of quantitative and qualitative methodologies
3. Summarise a range of innovative practices influencing business research
Academic Outcomes:
On completion of this module, students will be able to:
4. Outline systematic approaches to problem solving summarising the stages involved in designing applied research studies and the key decisions that need to be made
5. Generate potential solutions to organisational problems using complex, ambiguous and incomplete information.
Workplace Skills Outcomes:
On completion of this module, students will be able to:
6. Plan and design research studies to explore a problem(s) facing their organisation
7. Select and implement the appropriate tools and methods to gather data and information on issues/problems facing the organisation
8. Assess the data and propose solutions to the associated problem(s)
9. Assess the ethical implications of differing research designs and relate these to professional codes of practice
10. Champion projects/solutions to problems, within the context of a company structure
Interpersonal Skills Outcomes:
On completion of this module, students will be able to:
11. Manage incomplete, complex and ambiguous data in such a way that the critical issues contained in the data are extracted and communicated in a clear, engaging and inspirational manner
Skills outcomes
On completion of this module, students will have developed the skills necessary to:
Subject Specific Skills:
- Appraise the primary and secondary research strategies in terms of gathering accurate and effective data
- Examine and debate when to use quantitative and qualitative methodologies
- Critically evaluate research designs reviewing possible impact within an organisational setting
- Provide answers to solve organisational problems via the justification and critical evaluation of the chosen research strategy
Transferable Skills:
- Create a be-spoke and critically justified research proposal that incorporates a plan and strategy
- Write and speak to a professional standard with clarity and focus
- Debate the research strategy in terms of possible error and bias competently
- Synthesise research information from a variety of sources
- Collect and analyse data in an engaging and clear manner
- Present data professionally and competently so that problems can be highlighted and solutions found
- Understand in detail the issues of accuracy of data and possible bias
Syllabus
1. The nature of business problems
2. Assessing the scope of business problems
3. Developing and planning systematic approaches to business problem-solving
4. Understanding types of data and issues surrounding its collection
5. Data collection using quantitative methods (e.g. surveys)
6. Presenting analysis of quantitative data
7. Collecting data using qualitative methods (e.g. participant observation, interviewing, focus groups, Delphi)
8. Performing and presenting the analysis of qualitative data
9. Using systems analysis to understand processes and quantify improvements
10. Using mixed methods to strengthen, support and validate an argument
11. Presenting solutions to a business audience
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Directed Study | 6 | 1.00 | 6.00 |
| Discussion forum | 6 | 1.00 | 6.00 |
| Independent online learning hours | 24.00 | ||
| Private study hours | 114.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 12.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150.00 | ||
Private study
Independent online learning refers to non-facilitated directed learning. Students will work through bespoke interactive learning resources and reflective activities in the VLE.Private study refers to directed reading and self-directed research in support of learning activities and discussions, as well as in preparation for assessments
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Online learning materials will provide regular opportunity for students to check their understanding (for example through formative MCQs with automated feedback). Regular group activity embedded into learning will allow self and peer assessment providing opportunities for formative feedback from peers and tutors.Methods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| Report | 2,100 word project report | 70.00 |
| Oral Presentation | Individual live online 10 minute presentation | 30.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100.00 | |
Resit by failed element.
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 30/06/2021 15:20:05
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- Undergraduate module catalogue
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