Research Skills and Methods (5 ECTS)

Learning outcomes

The student recognizes the essentials of research and is able to apply systematic study in practice. He/she can utilize methodology applicable to business research projects and is able to use scientific texts and produce texts that comply in academic style. He/she knows how to process research knowledge at the research report format. He/she can evaluate and improve texts and present research findings in a professional manner.

Content

- Research ethics & criteria for good research
- Research methodology; Research strategies and approaches
- Qualitative research methods
- Quantitative research methods
- Action research
- Case study
- Research process; Research discourse
- Process writing

Teaching methods

The course offers research skills and methods training at the general level (e.g. doing ‘good’ research) and at the specific level of supporting the student’s chosen thesis topic (their 'business problem').
In support of student thesis progress, the course introduces a ‘Gate Model’ in which research skills are developed in line with the stages of thesis development – For example, (1) setting out the Business Challenge, (2) Research Design (3) undertaking a Current State Analysis (4) Reviewing current knowledge and a synthesis leading to a Conceptual Framework... (There are Seven Gates in all)
Teaching is offered through traditional lectures; students engage in presentations (co-learning); and there is active learning coursework (as opposed to exams that measure what has been already learned)

Learning materials and recommended literature

Coghlan, D. & Brannick, T. (2014) Doing Action Research in Your Own Organization. Sage: London - (earlier editions are acceptable)
https://uk.sagepub.com/en-gb/eur/doing-action-research-in-your-own-organization/book240933

Assessment methods and criteria

Assessment is through coursework, presentations, and early writing work on the students’ thesis topic

Evaluation scale

0-5

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Sufficient performance: has completed basic requirements to pass the course and has made an attempt to apply and articulate concepts and information both verbally and in writing but has not made enough effort overall. The student has demonstrated little effort, interest and motivation for individual or team activities / assignments and the output is rather weak.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

Good overall performance: can apply and articulate concepts and information well both verbally and in writing, certain areas of individual or team output require further attention; shows appropriate level of interest and motivation in individual and team activities. Good presentation delivery and analysis.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

Excellent performance in all elements of the course: shows interest and motivation in individual and team activities and assignments, fully applies and clearly articulates concepts and information both verbally and in writing. The student is able to support his/her argument with references to the recommended reading and lecture content. Excellent presentation delivery and analysis.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

Sufficient performance: has completed basic requirements to pass the course and has made an attempt to apply and articulate concepts and information both verbally and in writing but has not made enough effort overall. The student has demonstrated little effort, interest and motivation for individual or team activities / assignments and the output is rather weak.