Lord Ashcroft International Business School

Research Methods for Business and Management

Department:Leadership and Management Module Code: MOD001105 Level: 7 Academic Year: 2015/16 Semester/Trimester: One

Module Guide Contents 1. Key Information .................................................................................................................................... 3 2. Introduction to the Module .................................................................................................................... 3 3. Intended Learning Outcomes ............................................................................................................... 3

3.1 Employability skills delivered in this Module .................................................................................... 4 4. Outline Delivery .................................................................................................................................... 4 5. Assessment .......................................................................................................................................... 6

5.1 Type of assessment ........................................................................................................................ 6

5.2 Qualifying conditions and submitting your Work .............................................................................. 8

5.3 Feedback ...................................................................................................................................... 12

5.4 Re-Assessment (re-sit) ................................................................................................................. 12 6. How is My Work Marked? ................................................................................................................... 13 7. Assessment Criteria and Marking Standards ...................................................................................... 14

7.1 Specific Assessment Criteria and Marking Rubric or Grading Form .............................................. 14

7.2 University Generic Assessment Criteria ........................................................................................ 15 8. Report on Last Delivery of Module ...................................................................................................... 20 9. Links to Other Key Information ........................................................................................................... 21 Appendix 1: Re-Assessment Information ................................................................................................ 22

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Module Guide

1. Key Information Module title: Research Methods for Business and Management Module Leader: Andy Brady (andrew.brady@anglia.ac.uk) Module Tutors: ChrishanthiRanaweera(Online Delivery) GayanJayasinghe (Online Delivery) Every module has a Module Definition Form (MDF) which is the officially validated record of the module. You can access the MDF for this module in four ways via: • the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) • the My.Anglia Module Catalogue at www.anglia.ac.uk/modulecatalogue • Anglia Ruskin’s module search engine facility atwww.anglia.ac.uk/modules • As the final section of this module guide All modules delivered by Anglia Ruskin University at its main campuses in the UK and at Associate Colleges throughout the UK and overseas are governed by the Academic Regulations. You can view the seat www.anglia.ac.uk/academicregs. A printed extract of the Academic Regulationsknown as the Assessment Regulations, is available for every student from LS London office. In the unlikely event of any discrepancy between the Academic Regulations and any other publication, including this module guide, the Academic Regulations, as the definitive document, take precedence over all other publications and will be applied in all cases.

2. Introduction to theModule Thismoduleprovidescourseparticipantswiththeappropriateknowledge,skillsandabilitiestheywillneedtoeffectivelycarryoutapieceofsmallscalebusiness/managementresearch.AparticularemphasiswillbeplacedupondevelopingindividualstowardstheirMastersDissertation/project.Afocusisgiventothespecificissuesfacedbymanagersandresearcherswhencarryingoutresearch inanorganisationalsetting. Thesewillinclude the philosophical aspects ofenquiryinsocial settings, operatinginpoliticalcontexts,negotiatingaccesstokeyindividualsanddata,andmeetingtheresearchoutcomesexpectedbymultipleorganisationalstakeholders.Consequently,thismodulewillfocusonprovidingindividualswiththenecessaryskillstomeetthesechallengesandthereforeeffectivelyplan,carryoutandreport upontheirMasterslevel dissertation/project.

3. Intended Learning Outcomes

No Type On successful completionofthismodulethestudentwillbeexpectedtobeableto:

1 Knowledgeandundersta

nding Demonstrateacritical awarenessofdifferentresearchdesignsandrespectivemethodologiesrelevantto academicandpractitionerresearchersworkingwithin an

2 Knowledgeandunderstanding

Explaintheirchosenresearchquestion/hypothesisandresearchobjectives,andalltherelevantelementscontributingto aresearchproposalsuitabletoresearchingacontemporaryinternationalbusinesstopic.

3

Intellectual, practical,affectiveandtransferable skills

Criticallyevaluate the literaturerelevanttotheirresearchaimsinordertodevelop a conceptualframeworkor critical stance

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Module Guide 4

Intellectual, practical,affectiveandtransferable skills

Actasanindependentself-learner demonstratetheskillsnecessarytoplan, organise,undertakeandpresentaninternationalbusinessproject.

3.1 Employability skills delivered in this Module It is important that we help you develop employability skills throughout your course which will assist you in securing employment and supporting you in your future career. During your course you will acquire a wide range of key skills. In this module, you will develop those identified below:

4. Outline Delivery

Each master’s module will be structured according to the relevant discipline, but in general the following headings outline what would normally be covered within the curriculum.

• The nature of business and management research and its significance for researchers-Ethics,

politics, power, gender, the action imperative, expectations of sponsors/clients, stakeholders and researchers.

• Theories and conceptual frameworks – Perspectives on research methodologies – positivist and phenomenological paradigms, variety of forms of research.

SKILL Skills acquired in this module Communication (oral) X Communication (written) X Commercial Awareness X Cultural sensitivity Customer focus X Data Handling X Decision making X Enterprising Flexibility Initiative Interpersonal Skills Leadership/Management of others Networking Organisational adaptability Project Management Problem Solving and analytical skills X Responsibility Team working Time Management X Other

Review or synthesize existing knowledge Investigate existing situations or problems Provide solutions to problems Explore and analyse more general issues Construct or create new procedures or systems Explain phenomenon Generate new knowledge

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• Methods and techniques – Quantitative and Qualitative research, primary and secondary data, participant-observation, action research, ethnography, questionnaires, documentary analysis, data storage, sampling theory, hypothesis testing, interviewing and recording.

• Research Design – Research proposals, research questions, literature reviews, construction of research frameworks, choice of investigative methods, data collection, analysis and interpretation, formulating conclusions and recommendations.

• Constraints – Gaining acceptance, entry and intervention issues, bias, data access, client/researcher relationships and multiple client dilemmas, researcher as change agent, micro-politics and confidentiality.

• Presentation – Structuring and sequencing the dissertation and write-up, the canons of scholarly writing, potential uses of findings and expectations of clients, summaries and dissemination.

Sequence Lecture and Seminars

1

Module overview, formulating and clarifying the research topic

2

Critically reviewing academic literature and academic writing

3

Research philosophies and approaches

4

Negotiating access and research ethics

5

Selecting samples

6

Collecting data through questionnaires and analysing quantitative data

7

Collecting data through observation and interviews

8

Using secondary data

9

Writing and presenting your project report

10

Issues in research and assignment advice and formative feedback

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5.Assessment5.1 Type of assessment

Part Type of Assessment

Learning Outcomes

% Weighting &Fine

Grade(FG)orPass/F

ail (PF)

Word Limit Submission Method Submission Dates Key Contact Person

1

CourseworkA (010): Produce

an introduction to RMBM proposal

1,2,3,4 20% In 500 words. (Ref: section 7.1 for more

details)

Direct Submission to Supervisor via the supervisors designated e-mail

Please follow email correspondence for deadlines and any possible revisions.

Supervisor

2

CourseworkB (011) : Produce Final Research

Proposal

1,2,3,4 80% In 2500 words. (Ref: section 7.1 for more

details)

via Learning Platform https://learningplatform.

londonschoolofmarketing.com

Please follow email correspondence for deadlines and any possible revisions.

Supervisor

3 CourseworkC:

Ethics form submission

N/A N/A N/A via Learning Platform https://learningplatform.

londonschoolofmarketing.com Please follow email correspondence for deadlines and any possible revisions.

arusupport@lseducationgr

oup.com

4 CourseworkD:

Ethics Quiz submission

N/A N/A N/A via Learning Platform https://learningplatform.

londonschoolofmarketing.com

arusupport@lseducationgr

oup.com

(SEE SECTION 7 FOR FURTHER DETAILS RELATING TO THE ASSESSMENT)

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5.2 Qualifying conditions and submitting your Work

Method see guidance

notes

Learning Outcomes

% Weighting & Fine

Grade (FG) or pass/fail

(PF)

Qualifying Mark see

guidance notes

Length/duration and other comments

Coursework A (Element 010)

1-4 20% 30 Students produce a 500 word (max) research proposal outline

Coursework B (Element 011)

1-4 80% 30 Final research proposal, maximum word limit of 2500

In order to pass this module, students are required to achieve an overall mark of 40%. In addition, students are required to: (a) achieve the qualifying mark for each element of fine graded assessment as specified above (b) pass any pass/fail elements

Submittingyourwork All coursework assignments and other forms of assessment must be submitted by the published deadline which is detailed above. It is your responsibility to know when work is due to be submitted – ignorance of the deadline date will not be accepted as a reason for late or non-submission. All student work which contributes to the eventual outcome of the module (i.e.: if it determines whether you will pass or fail the module and counts towards the mark you achieve for the module) is submitted via Learning Platform. Any late work (submitted to Learning Platform) will NOT be considered and a mark of zero will be awarded for the assessment task in question. You are requested to keep a copy of your work.

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Module Guide

ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS(seesection7.3)

Coursework A (20%) Instructions: Produce an introduction to RMBM.Consider:StructureandSpecificMarkingCriteria

Word Limit:500words

Please contact your supervisor for any information or clarification that you may have on this regard.

Coursework B (80%) Instructions:Preparea researchproposal.Consider:StructureandSpecificMarkingCriteria Word Limit:2,500 words

Written assignments must not exceed the specified maximum number of words. All assignments which do so will be penalised. The penalty will be the deduction of 10% of the maximum marks available (i.e. 10%). Assignments will not be accepted without a word count on the cover sheet. Coursework B should be double-spaced, with page numbers at the bottom, 12-point font, and 1-inch margins. Work submitted after this date will receive a mark of 0 unless an extension has been approved in advance of this deadline. Requests for short-term extensions will only be considered in the case of illness or other cause considered valid by the Student Adviser. These must normally be received and agreed by Student Adviser in writing at least twenty four hours prior to the deadline. Please refer to the Academic Regulations or your Student Handbook for full details. All coursework assignments and other forms of assessment must be submitted by the published deadline which is detailed above. It is your responsibility to know when work is due to be submitted – ignorance of the deadline date will not be accepted as a reason for late or non-submission. Academic staff CANNOT accept work directly from you. You are requested to keep a copy of your work. Please contact your supervisor for any information or clarification that you may have on this regard. Write clearly. Make sure your proposal includes complete sentences and accurate spelling and punctuation.

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Coursework C – Ethics Form Coursework C is a form that needs to be filled in appropriately based on the research scope that you intend covering. All fields must be filled and forwarded to the LSM Submissions website on the given deadline. You can download the Ethics form through theLearning Portal. NOTE To download the Ethics Form, you can follow the path given below on your Learning Portal: Course Module Assessment Final Submission Awarding body declaration sheet

Following are screenshots of the ethics form that you need to submit:

Please contact Joanna Shear through arusupport@lseducationgroup.com for any information or clarification that you may have on this regard.

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Coursework D - Ethics Quiz All students must complete their online Ethics Quiz given in the link below: https://vle.anglia.ac.uk/sites/non-mod/ethics1/Pages/Home3.aspx To access the above link you will have to use your e-vision login credentials. After which, it is compulsory to complete the ethics quiz and score 100%. Please note that you can take the ethics quiz multiple times until you score 100%. Once you have scored 100% on the quiz, you would have to print/take a screenshot/take a picture of your final mark. You will then have to submit this confirmation of you passing your ethics quiz with your Research Methods for Business and Management (proposal). Please contact Joanna Shear through arusupport@lseducationgroup.com for any information or clarification that you may have on this regard. NOTE: Finally, please note, if you fail to submit the Ethics Form and Quiz you will not be able to complete your Anglia Ruskin University degree.

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5.3 Feedback

Youareentitledtowrittenfeedbackonyour performance for all your assessed work. For all assessment tasks which are not examinations, this is accomplished by a member of academic staff providing your mark and associated comments which will relate to the achievement of the module’s intended learning outcomes and the assessment criteria you were given for the task when it was first issued. This feedback will be emailed to you directly. The marker of your assignment will include feedback on written assignments that includes answers to these three key questions:

1. What is your overall feedback? 2. How does your assignment compare to the marking criteria? 3. How can you improve in the future?

London School of Marketing iscommittedtoprovidingyouwithfeedbackonallassessedworkwithin20workingdaysofthemoderationdeadlineor the dateofanexamination.Thisisextendedto30daysforfeedbackforaMajorProjectmodule(pleasenotethatworkingdaysexcludesthosedayswhenLondon School of Marketingisofficiallyclosed;e.g.betweenChristmasandNewYear). Personaltutorswilloffertoreadfeedbackfromseveralmodulesandhelpyoutoaddressanycommonthemesthatmaybeemerging.

ToassureourselvesthatourmarkingprocessesarecomparablewithotheruniversitiesintheUK,Anglia Ruskinprovidessamplesofstudentassessedworktoexternalexaminersas aroutinepartofourmarkingprocesses.Externalexaminersareexperiencedacademicstaff fromotheruniversitieswhoscrutiniseyourworkandprovideAngliaRuskinacademicstaffwithfeedbackandadvice.ManyofAngliaRuskin’sstaffactasexternalexaminersatotheruniversities.

Onoccasion,youwillreceivefeedbackandmarksforpiecesofworkthatyoucompletedintheearlierstagesofthemodule.Weprovideyouwiththisfeedbackaspartofthelearningexperienceandtohelpyouprepareforotherassessmenttasksthatyouhavestilltocomplete.Itisimportanttonotethat,inthesecases,themarksforthesepiecesofworkareunconfirmed.Thismeansthat,potentially,markscanchange,ineither direction! Marks for modules and individual piece of work become confirmed on the Dates for the Official Publication of Results which can be checked at www.anglia.ac.uk/results.

5.4 Re-Assessment (re-sit) Ifyouareunsuccessfulwiththe1stattemptofyourassessment,youmustcompleteare-assessment.AsindicatedinSection6.2.7.oftheSenateCodeofPractice,asthisassignmentisuniquetoindividualstudents,thereassessmentconsistsofre-workingthefailedpaperusingcommentsandfeedbackfromexaminertoimprovetheproposal.There-assessmentinformation is given inAppendix1.

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6. HowisMyWork Marked? Afteryouhavehandedyourworkinoryouhavecompletedanexamination,AngliaRuskinundertakesaseriesofactivitiestoassurethatourmarkingprocessesarecomparablewiththoseemployedatotheruniversitiesin the UKandthatyourworkhasbeenmarkedfairly, honestlyand consistently. These include: • Anonymous marking – your name is not attached to your work so, at the point of marking, the lecturer

does not know whose work he/she is considering. When you undertake an assessment task where your identity is known (e.g.: a presentation or Major Project), it is marked by more than one lecturer (known as double marking)

• Internal moderation – a sample of all work for each assessment task in each module is moderated by

other Anglia Ruskin staff to check the standards and consistency of the marking • External moderation – a sample of student work for all modules is moderated by external examiners –

experienced academic staff from other universities (and sometimes practitioners who represent relevant professions) - who scrutinise your work and provide Anglia Ruskin academic staff with feedback, advice and assurance that the marking of your work is comparable to that in other UK universities. Many of Anglia Ruskin’s staff act as external examiners at other universities.

• Departmental Assessment Panel (DAP) – performance by all students on all modules is discussed and

approved at the appropriate DAPs which are attended by all relevant Module Leaders and external examiners. Anglia Ruskin has over 25 DAPs to cover all the different subjects we teach.

This module falls within the remit of the Leadership and ManagementDepartmental Assessment Panel. External examiners are appointed at various points throughout the year. An up-to-date list of external examiners is available to students and staff at www.anglia.ac.uk/eeinfo.

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7. Assessment Criteria and Marking Standards

7.1 Specific Assessment Criteria and Marking Rubric or Grading Form

A++ = 90-100 A+ = 80-89% A = 70-79% B = 60-69% C = 50-59% D = 40-49% F = 30-39% F- = 20-29% F— = 10 -19% F---- = 0-9%

Exec

utive

Sum

mar

y

The executive summary is well-focused on the main points for top management. It is exceptionally well-written to highlight your proposed e-business strategy.

An outstanding executive summary that is well-focused and considered. It explains the purpose and conclusions of the report well.

An excellent summary that is clear and succinct. It outlines the main points for the senior management team.

A very good executive summary that highlights the main points which top management would be interested in.

The executive summary highlighted the major points in the report, however, some aspects were missing.

There is the beginnings of an executive summary. You really needed to summarise what the report recommended. The idea of an executive summary is that if top management read just the summarise they would know what the report proposes.

Your executive summary is unclear – make sure to focus on summarising the most important aspects in your report.

You have misunderstood the purpose of the executive summary. You needed to overview the whole report, including the main facts about your recommendation.

There is some attempt to explain the report – but this is not really an executive summary. The executive summary should have overviewed the main recommendation of the report.

NO EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The executive summary should have overviewed the main recommendation of the report. The idea is that top management do not have to read the whole report to know what it is about.

CREATE ROW for each marking criteria.

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7.2 University Generic Assessment Criteria ANGLIA RUSKIN UNIVERSITY GENERIC ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND MARKING STANDARDS

LEVEL 7

Level 7 is characterised by an expectation of students’ expertise in their specialism. Students are semi-autonomous, demonstrating independence in the negotiation of assessment tasks (including the major project) and the ability to evaluate, challenge, modify and develop theory and practice. Students are expected to demonstrate an ability to isolate and focus on the significant features of problems and to offer synthetic and coherent solutions, with some students producing original or innovative work in their specialism that is worthy of publication or public performance or display.

Mark Bands Outcome Generic Learning Outcomes (GLOs) (Academic Regulations, Section 2)

Knowledge & Understanding Intellectual (thinking), Practical, Affective and Transferable Skills

Cha

ract

eris

tics

of S

tude

nt A

chie

vem

ent b

y M

arki

ng B

and

90-100%

Achieves module outcome(s) related to GLO at this level

Exceptional analysis of key issues/concepts/ethics with very clear originality and autonomy. Exceptional development of conceptual structures and argument making an exceptional use of scholarly conventions. Demonstrates independence of thought and a very high level of intellectual rigour and consistency. Work pushes the boundaries of the discipline and may be considered for external publication

Exceptional analysis of key issues/concepts/ethics. Exceptional development of conceptual structures and argument, making consistent use of scholarly conventions. Exceptional research skills, independence of thought, an extremely high level of intellectual rigour and consistency, exceptional expressive/professional skills, and substantial creativity and originality. Exceptional academic/intellectual skills. Work pushes the boundaries of the discipline and may be considered for external publication

80-89%

Outstanding analysis of key issues/concepts/ethics with clear originality and autonomy. Outstanding development of conceptual structures and argument making an exemplary use of scholarly conventions. Demonstrates independence of thought and a very high level of intellectual rigour and consistency

Outstanding analysis of key issues/concepts/ethics. Very high level development of conceptual structures and argument, making consistent use of scholarly conventions. Outstanding research skills, independence of thought, a high level of intellectual rigour and consistency, outstanding expressive/professional skills, and considerable creativity and originality. Exemplary academic/intellectual skills

70-79%

Excellent analysis of key issues/concepts/ethics. Excellent development of conceptual structures and argument making excellent use of scholarly conventions. Demonstrates independence of thought and a high level of intellectual rigour and consistency

Excellent analysis of key issues/concepts/ethics. High level development of conceptual structures and argument, making consistent use of scholarly conventions. Excellent research skills, independence of thought, a high level of intellectual rigour and consistency, excellent expressive/ professional skills, and considerable creativity and originality. Excellent academic/intellectual skills, and considerable creativity and originality

60-69% Good analysis of key issues/concepts/ethics. Development of conceptual structures and argument making consistent use of scholarly conventions

Good analysis of key issues/concepts/ethics. Development of conceptual structures and argument, making consistent use of scholarly conventions

50-59% Satisfactory knowledge of key issues/ concepts/ethics in discipline. Descriptive in parts but some ability to synthesise scholarship and argument. Minor lapses in use of scholarly conventions

Satisfactory knowledge of key issues/ concepts/ethics in discipline. Descriptive in parts but some ability to synthesise scholarship and argument. Minor lapses in use of scholarly conventions

40-49% A marginal pass in module outcome(s) related to GLO at this level

Basic knowledge of key issues/concepts/ethics in discipline. Generally descriptive, with restricted synthesis of existing scholarship and little argument. Use of scholarly conventions inconsistent

Basic knowledge of key issues/concepts/ethics in discipline. Generally descriptive, with restricted synthesis of existing scholarship and little argument. Use of scholarly conventions inconsistent.

30-39%

A marginal fail in module outcome(s) related to GLO at this level. Possible compensation. Satisfies qualifying mark

Limited knowledge of key issues/concepts/ethics in discipline. Largely descriptive, with restricted synthesis of existing scholarship and limited argument. Limited use of scholarly conventions.

Limited research skills impede use of learning resources and problem solving. Significant problems with structure/accuracy in expression. Team/Practical/ Professional skills not yet secure. Weak academic/ intellectual skills. Limited use of scholarly conventions

20-29% Fails to achieve module outcome(s) related to this GLO. Qualifying mark not satisfied. No compensation available

Little evidence of knowledge of key issues/concepts/ethics in discipline. Largely descriptive, with little synthesis of existing scholarship and little evidence of argument. Little evidence of use of scholarly conventions.

Little evidence of research skills, use of learning resources and problem solving. Major problems with structure/ accuracy in expression. Team/Practical/Professional skills virtually absent. Very weak academic/intellectual skills. Little evidence of use of scholarly conventions

10-19% Inadequate knowledge of key issues/concepts/ethics in discipline. Wholly descriptive, with inadequate synthesis of existing scholarship and inadequate argument. Inadequate use of scholarly conventions.

Inadequate use of research skills, learning resources and problem solving. Major problems with structure/accuracy in expression. Team/Practical/Professional skills absent. Extremely weak academic/intellectual skills. Inadequate use of scholarly conventions

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1-9%

No evidence of knowledge of key issues/concepts/ethics in discipline. Incoherent and completely but poorly descriptive, with no evidence of synthesis of existing scholarship and no argument whatsoever. No evidence of use of scholarly conventions.

No evidence of use of research skills, learning resources and problem solving. Incoherent structure/accuracy in expression. Team/Practical/Professional skills non-existent. No evidence of academic/intellectual skills. No evidence of use of scholarly conventions

0% Awarded for: (i) non-submission; (ii) dangerous practice and; (iii) in situations where the student fails to address the assignment brief (e.g.: answers the wrong question) and/or related learning outcomes

7.3 Specific Marking Criteria 7.3.1 Assessment Form:Coursework A (20%)Introduction to RMBM(Element 010) Marking Criteria Comments Marks 1. Does the working title mirror closely the content of the introduction document?

Maximum 20%

2. Does the introductory part inform the reader of the problem or situation and the context the student is interested in?

Maximum 20%

3. Does the document inform the reader of the rationale of this study? a. Whatis the research issue? b. Why is it an issue? c. Whyis it an issue now? d. Whatcould this research shed light on?

a.max15% b.max15% c.max15% d.max15%

Total (a,b,c,d ) 60%

Total 100% Note: The marking scheme allows flexibility, and it is by no means exhaustive. TOTAL: 100% Word Limit:500words Organise your“Course work A” using headings, such as “Title”, “Introductory Part”, “Rational”. These headings will help establish a logical flow to your course work A. 1) Title: Initially this might be regarded as a working title, and ideally should mirror closely the content of the course work. The title is particularly important for this. In general, a good title will get people to stop and listen. 2) Introductory part: This informs the reader of the problem or situation and the context you are interested in. The goal is to give the reviewers some basic academic information they can use to evaluate the significance of the research proposal. 3) Rational for this study.

- What is the research issue? - Why is it an issue? - Why is it an issue now? - What could this research shed light on?

You have to introduce the topic and clarify the significance of what you are trying to present. That is, you have to present research questions with a logical sequencing of facts. You have to give examples to illustrate your rational. Be sure to have a conclusion that summarises your take-home message (why is it an issue now? what could this research shed light on?).

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Module Guide Your course work should be constructed so that it presents the desired information in a self-explanatory manner. You have to think of the course work A as a series of highly efficient, organised panels upon which appear synopses of the relevant information you want to convey (what is the research issue?) – Just enough to get your point across. Include references. Make it clear that you know what has been done in your area in the past and where your research will fit in. Be attentive to the layout and placement of your materials. Write clearly.Make sure your proposal includes complete sentences and accurate spelling and punctuation.

7.3.2 Assessment Form:Coursework B (80%) – Research Proposal (Element 011) Marking Criteria

Comments

Marks

1. Introduction - Does the introduction inform the reader regarding the research aims, objectives and research questions?

Maximum 15%

2. Literature review - Does the student critically review at least 6 sources to underpin the study? - Does the literature review demonstrate student’s knowledge of the literature and make a critical link with the research question to be investigated?

Maximum 30%

3. Research design and methodology - Does the student provide a detailed rational of how she/he intend to achieve the research objectives and framework; - Type of investigation. - Data collection method. - Sampling method. - Accessibility issues. - Ethical issues. - Data analysis plan. - Research limitations.

Maximum 40%

4. Timetable and references - Does the student provide a rational timetable? - Do references correctly applied?

Maximum 15%

Word Limit: 2500words

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General Guidelines for Research Proposal (Coursework B) (studentsnot limitedbytheseguidelines)

1. Introduction

You have to introduce the topic and clarify the significance of what you are trying to present. In addition, in this section you have to present the:

- Research aims - Research objectives - Research questions

Please, provide references. Give academic information. 2. Literature review This section will demonstrate your knowledge of the literature and make a critical link with the research question to be investigated. Students are expected to critically review at least 6 sources to underpin the study. The literature should mostly rely on published academic journal articles in the research area. This critical activity should produce a conceptual framework. 3. Research Design and Methodology This section should provide a detailed rational of how you intend to achieve your research objectives. You are expected to address the following areas:

- Type of investigation

Explain clearly whether your research can be classified as an exploratory, descriptive or hypothesis testing study. Refer to the lecture notes and textbook for details on each type.

- Data collection method

Explain how you are going to collect the data (e.g. postal questionnaire, telephone interview, focus group, etc) and why this fits the purpose of your research.

- Sampling method

Explain whether you plan to use a probability or non-probability sampling design and the specific sampling technique. The study participants should be able to offer the right type of information to enable you address the research problem.

- Accessibility issues

What accessibility issues are you likely to encounter when you collect the data? How are you going to manage the accessibility issues?

- Ethical issues

You must discuss any ethical issues that are relevant to your research topic, participants, and method. Discuss how you are going to deal with the ethical issues.

- Data analysis plan

How you intend to analyse the data you will collect? This section must be consistent with the previous section on data collection method and must be mindful of the nature of the data collected, whether this is quantitative or qualitative.

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- Research limitations

Define the limitations of the study that you believe you may encounter and could be affect the quality, scope, or value of the research.

4. Timetable and References Provide a Gantt chart on how you will use your available time to complete your proposed research. This will provide an indication of the viability of the proposal. You will need to justify your plan. The reference list at this stage need not be lengthy, only sufficient to inform your proposal. The list must include all the sources that were cited and consulted in writing the research proposal. You must use the Harvard Style of referencing – refer to appendix 1 of your textbook for details.

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Module Guide 8. Report on Last Delivery of Module

MODULE REPORT FORM

This form should be completed by module tutors (where there is more than one delivery) and forwarded to Module Leaders who compiles the results on to one form for use at the Programme Committee and other methods of disseminating feedback to students. Module Code and Title:MOD001105, Research Methods for Business and Management Anglia Ruskin Department: Leadership and Management

Location(s) of Delivery: Online

Academic Year: 2014/2015 Semester/Trimester: SEM 03

Enrolment Numbers (at each location): 1902

Module Leader: Gayan Jayasinghe (Online Delivery)

Other Module Tutors:ChrishanthiRanaweera(Online Delivery) Student Achievement Provide a brief overview of student achievement on the module as evidenced by the range of marks awarded. A detailed breakdown of marks will be available at the Departmental Assessment Panel. Research Methods for Business and Management was very well faired by students with a pass rate of 97% for Course Work A and 93% for Course Work B. The mean marks were 53% and 51% for course work A and B respectively. Course work A marks range from 5%-78% whilst course work B marks range from 8%-73%. Feedback from Students Briefly summarise student responses, including any written comments Students thoroughly enjoyed this module as it was a great opportunity to experiment with their research interests.Majority of the students were very happy about their learning experience and was very co-operative with the supervisors during their studies. Module Leader/Tutor’s Reflection on Delivery of the Module, including Response to Feedback from Students (including resources if appropriate) The overall students’ performance on both the tasks (Course work A and B) were highly satisfactory and supervisors enjoyed high level of student engagement for this module. Developments during the current year or planned for next year (if appropriate) Each semester, based on the student feedback and moderation feedback; LSM updates the lesson content and incorporate any improvements if there is any into the Practice with Workshop Manual. External Examiner’s Comments State whether the external examiner agreed the marks and/or commented on the module The exam marks were approved during the moderation as the marks awarded were considered fair and reasonable.

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Module Guide 9. Links to Other Key Information

Assessment Offences: As an academic community, we recognise that the principles of truth, honesty and mutual respect are central to the pursuit of knowledge. Behaviour that undermines those principles weakens the community, both individually and collectively, and diminishes our values. More information on the types Assessment Offences is given here: http://anglia.libguides.com/plagiarism

Attendance Information: Attending all your classes is very important and one of the best ways to help you succeed in this module. Link to more details on the Attendance Requirements is here:<Academic Office webpage>

External Examiners: An up-to-date list of external examiners is available to students and staff at www.anglia.ac.uk/eeinfo.

How is My Work Marked and Flowchart of Anglia Ruskin’s Marking Process:After you have handed your work in or you have completed an examination, Anglia Ruskin undertakes a series of activities to assure that our marking processes are comparable with those employed at other universities in the UK and that your work has been marked fairly, honestly and consistently. More information about this is given here:<Academic Office webpage>

Module Evaluation: During the second half of the delivery of this module, you will be asked to complete a module evaluation questionnaire to help us obtain your views on all aspects of the module, more about this process is included here:<Academic Office webpage>

Reading Lists: These are now all available online: http://readinglists.anglia.ac.uk

Re-assessments: The re-assessment dates are informed by the Submissions team. Check the specific date your re-assessment assignment is due in on: http://e-vision.anglia.ac.uk or alternatively, if it is an examination, these are scheduled by the Examinations Unit, the dates and locations will be posted on the following website: http://web.anglia.ac.uk/anet/students/exams/

University Generic Assessment Criteria: Information on the Criteria that the university uses to mark your work.

Page 21

Module Guide

Appendix 1: Re-Assessment Information

THIS INFORMATION ONLY APPLIES TO STUDENTS WHO ARE UNSUCCESSFUL IN THEIR FIRST SUBMISSION

The re-assessment for this module consists of one or two elements, depending on individual’s circumstance. Check your results in e-vision. Element Type of assessment Word or

time limit

Deadline for assessment

010 RMBM CW A 500 TBC 011 RMBM CW B 2500 TBC

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Module Definition Form (MDF)

Module Code: MOD001105 Version 2 Date amended 30/Apr/2013

1. Module TitleResearch Methods for Business and Management

2a. Module Leader 2b. Department 2c. FacultyNoah Karley Dept of Economics,

International Business andOperations Management

Lord Ashcroft InternationalBusiness School

3a. Level 3b. Module Type7 Standard Module

4a. Credits 4b. Study Hours15 150

5. RestrictionsType Module Code Module Name ConditionPre-requisites:

None

Co-requisites:

None

Exclusions: NoneCourses to which thismodule is restricted

None

LEARNING, TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT INFORMATION6a. Module DescriptionThis module prepares students to undertake a piece of business or management research fortheir Masters project by developing appropriate knowledge, understanding and transferableintellectual and practical skills. Emphasis is placed on developing skills most likely to lead to asuccessful closure of a research journey set within any organisational setting identified bystudents in the role of either academic or practitioner researchers. Skills such as the ability toframe research aims, generate research questions/hypothesis ,and research objectives, theability to generate a conceptual framework, the ability to select and justify a particular researchdesign and methodology and the ability to act as an ethical researcher so as not to spoil the fieldare all central features of this module. In addition the generation of core practical skills such asthe ability to generate and analyse quantitative and qualitative data are central to this module.By developing this knowledge, understanding and transferable intellectual and practical skills thetrue aims of conducting research will be realised. Students will gain confidence in a range ofcognitive and practical skills suitable to conducting research projects in a range of internationalbusiness contexts so as to add to knowledge and understanding.One of the main focuses for the design of this module has been the further development ofrelevant employability and professional skills. Such skills are implicit in the learning outcomes.

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6a. Module Description (Continued)Multiculturalism has been considered during the design of this module and will be consideredwhen the assessment brief is written.

6b. Outline Content-The nature of international business research and its contribution to adding to theory andincreasing understanding of historic and contemporary business processes.-Analysing and developing conceptual frameworks.-Analysing and developing research designs and methodologies-Quantitative and qualitative data collection, analysis and interpretation.-Pursuing a research journey- to include: access, issues of acceptance, stakeholdermanagement, ethical issues, and information transfer.-Writing research reports for different stakeholder groups.

6c. Key Texts/LiteratureSaunders, M.N.K., Lewis, P. and Thornhill, A. (2012) Research Methods for Business Students(6th edn), London, Pearson Education LtdWilson, J. 2010, Essentials of Business Research A Guide To Doing Your Research Project.London: Sage. ISBN-10: 1848601336 / ISBN-13: 978-1848601338Punch, K.F. (2005) Introduction to Social Research Sage.Collis, J. and Hussey R. (2003) Business Research. Palgrave/Macmillan.Fisher, C. (2004) Researching and Writing a Dissertation for Business Students. FT/PrenticeHall.

Last Updated: 03/08/2009

6d. Specialist Learning ResourcesNone

7. Learning Outcomes (threshold standards)No. Type On successful completion of this module the student will be

expected to be able to:1 Knowledge and

understandingDemonstrate a critical awareness of different research designs andrespective methodologies relevant to academic and practitionerresearchers working within an international context.

2 Knowledge andunderstanding

Explain their chosen research question/hypothesis and researchobjectives, and all the relevant elements contributing to a researchproposal suitable to researching a contemporary internationalbusiness topic.

3 Intellectual, practical,affective andtransferable skills

Critically evaluate the literature relevant to their research aims inorder to develop a conceptual framework or critical stance.

4 Intellectual, practical,affective andtransferable skills

Act as an independent self- learner by demonstrating the skillsnecessary to plan, organise, undertake and present a researchproject as a poster/presentation and as a written researchproposal.

8a. Module Occurrence to which this MDF RefersYear Occurrence Period Location Mode of Delivery2013/4 ZZF Template For Face to Face

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8a. Module Occurrence to which this MDF Refers (Continued)Year Occurrence Period Location Mode of Delivery

Face To FaceLearning Delivery

8b. Learning Activities for the above Module OccurrenceLearningActivities

Hours LearningOutcomes

Details of Duration, frequency and other comments

Lectures 12 1-4 Block DeliveryOther teachermanagedlearning

12 1-4 Block Delivery

Studentmanagedlearning

126 1-4 Reading, group work, tutorial prep, and desk basedresearch.

TOTAL 150

9. Assessment for the above Module OccurrenceAssessment

No.Assessment

MethodLearning

OutcomesWeighting (%) Fine Grade or

Pass/FailQualifying Mark

(%)010 Coursework 1-4 20 Fine Grade 30

Details: Students produce a research proposal poster and present it on a specific day(week 4/5) and be prepared to discuss the poster (and thus receive on the spotfeedback)

011 Coursework 1-4 80 Fine Grade 30Details: Final 3,000 word (max) proposal

In order to pass this module, students are required to achieve an overall mark of 40%.In addition, students are required to:(a) achieve the qualifying mark for each element of fine grade assessment as specifiedabove(b) pass any pass/fail elements.

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