MS3553: RESEARCH METHODS FOR BUSINESS (2018-2019)

Last modified: 22 May 2019 17:07

Course Overview

This course introduces students to what is involved in undertaking research into business phenomena. It introduces philosophical issues in the theory of knowledge, ethical issues in research conduct, and considers quantitative and qualitative methods in turn, addressing issues in sampling and design, details of specific approaches, and considerations in data analysis. The course is taught through weekly lectures and an extended two hour tutorial every fortnight, with two pieces of coursework and a two hour written exam. The emphasis throughout is on understanding the conceptual underpinning of different methods, and their strengths and limitations in research.

Course Details

Study Type	Undergraduate	Level	3
Term	Second Term	Credit Points	30 credits (15 ECTS credits)
Campus	Old Aberdeen	Sustained Study	No
Co-ordinators	Dr Karolina Kazimierczak

Qualification Prerequisites

Either Programme Level 3 or Programme Level 4

What courses & programmes must have been taken before this course?

Any Undergraduate Programme (Studied)

What other courses must be taken with this course?

None.

What courses cannot be taken with this course?

GG3574 Research Design (Studied)
SO3524 Social Research Methods (Studied)

Are there a limited number of places available?

Course Description

The course will introduce and develop the following aspects:

Philosophical frameworks underpinning research approaches
Research strategies for the design and conduct of research projects
Ethical constraints and considerations in social science research
Alternative sampling strategies and their benefits and limitations
Quantitative methods, such as structured questionnaires and content analysis
Qualitative methods, such as participant observations and ethnography
Consideration of mixed methods and pragmatic concerns with research

Contact Teaching Time

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

Teaching Breakdown

More Information about Week Numbers

Details, including assessments, may be subject to change until 30 August 2024 for 1st term courses and 20 December 2024 for 2nd term courses.

Summative Assessments

1st Attempt

2-hour examination (60%)
Individual assignment: research proposal (2500 words) (40%)

Resit

One 2-hour examination (100%)

Formative Assessment

This will take place through the two-hour tutorial exercises. Students will work both individually and in groups on a series of research problems.

Feedback

Written feedback is given on the written summative assignment. Continuous oral feedback is given in tutorial exercises, tutorial presentations and in class discussions. Assignments are submitted through MyAberdeen/Turnitin and are available to the external examiner.

Course Learning Outcomes