Units
Research Methodology
Unit code: BSN502
Contact hours: Flexible Mode
Credit points: 12
Information about fees and unit costs
The purpose of this study is to provide students with a range of ideas and methods that enable them to analyse, evaluate and conduct research in discipline areas related to business. It provides an essential and basic preparation for the development of a thesis or dissertation proposal. Areas of study include research paradigms, analysis and criticism, research design, data collection and data manipulation, interpretation and presentation.
Availability
| Semester | Available |
|---|---|
| 2013 Semester 1 | Yes |
| 2013 Semester 2 | Yes |
Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013
Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.
Rationale
This unit is designed to assist postgraduate research students to understand the fundamentals of research methodology. It is designed as a companion unit to Research Seminar and the quantitative and qualitative research methods unit. In BSN502 we aim to develop students' ability to understand and critique high quality research using different methodologies. Through reading and the analyses of these world class research papers we directly address the assurance of learning goal 1.1, 2.1 (see below). The workshops and assessment items are also designed to practice communication skills outlined in learning goal 3.1 and 3.2 (see below), Achievement of these assurance goals establish fundamental building blocks for the more learning advanced learning goals (2.2, 2.3, 3.3 & 4.1).
Aims
The aims and purposes of the unit are to:
1. Develop comprehension of empirical papers (quantitative and qualitative)
2. Understand fundamentals of research methodology
3. Appreciate the influence of research paradigm
4. Acquire knowledge of research design
5. Gain background knowledge of principles of sound methodological design and analysis
6. Extend the ability to analyze and critique empirical research
Objectives
Course Learning Goals (Research)
The QUT Business School has established the Assurance of Learning (AOL) Goals to meet contemporary industry needs and standards. Achieving these learning outcomes will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT - aligned with other internationally renowned business schools. Students will develop the following capabilities relevant to a contemporary global and sustainable business environment:
Have a broad and deep advanced theoretical and disciplinary knowledge (KNO)
1.1 Discuss advanced theoretical and disciplinary knowledge
Have advanced analytical research skills necessary to evaluate and conduct research in their areas of specialisation (ARS)
2.1 Display understanding of research design through appropriate methodological critique of published research
2.2 Display competence in research design through the development and critique of a rigorous design for their own research
2.3 Display competence in the appropriate and rigorous analysis of data
Be an effective communicator of theoretical, disciplinary and research information effectively at an advanced academic level (COM)
3.1 Provide an effective presentation and defence of their research in oral contexts
3.2 Provide an effective presentation and defence of research in written contexts
3.3 Disseminate research outcomes through presentations of their academic work within academic and other relevant communities **
Be able to demonstrate independence in research planning and execution (IND)
4.1 Identify independently issues as they arise in the conduct of research and enact solutions in a timely manner **
Have an understanding of the ethical context of research (ETH)
5.1 Reflect on the ethical dimensions of their research and obtain ethical clearance prior to conducting research
Be able to work effectively in a team environment (TW)
6.1 Operate effectively and with flexibility to achieve common goals in research settings, using a range of skills, including leadership, negotiation, reflection, proactivity and support for team members
** AOL goal applies at PhD level only.
Unit Objectives
Upon completion of this unit, you should be able to:
1. Identify the principles and assumptions of good research design consistent with realising the research purpose(s) from both a qualitative and quantitative perspective;
2. Based upon the principles and assumptions of good research design, critique research designs in both quantitative and qualitative published empirical papers; and
3. Design a research project that is consistent with the principles and assumptions of good research design.
The specific course learning goals and unit objectives that apply to this unit are shown in the assessment section of this unit outline.
Content
Approaches to Teaching and Learning
Research methodology is a very broad discipline knowledge area that can only be mastered through years of training and practice. In this unit we accommodate the learning needs of research postgraduate students with a diverse level of expertises in this area. The design of the unit thus focuses on understanding and critiquing world class empirical papers using different methodologies. This approach enables all students to extend their current knowledge base in research methodology. Students MUST complete the required reading, watch the vidoes and undertake the pre-workshop tasks before coming to class each week. Participation in class discussion is also essential to maximize the learning opportunities in class.
The unit is supported by the QUT Blackboard system. In addition to basic information such as the unit outline, lecture outlines, assessment information and staff contact details the Blackboard site contains learning materials (guided readings, and video presentations of targeted relevant content) to enable students to develop knowledge critical to research methodology. A key approach to learning in BSN502 is interaction on the Blackboard site in preparation for in class discussions.
To access the BSN502 Blackboard site, simply bookmark the following URL: http://blackboard.qut.edu.au
Note: The BSN502 Blackboard site can only be accessed with the use of your QUT access username and password.
Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
Assessment name:
Quantitative Research Design
Description:
You will be provided with a quantitative research article to critique. The critique will involve the identification of the strengths and limitations in the design of the study based upon the principles and assumptions of good research design consistent with realising the article's stated research purpose(s) from a quantitative perspective. On this basis individuals will then develop an alternative research design consistent with realising the research purpose(s), again based on upon the principles of good research design, from a quantitative perspective. Opportunities to practice article critique and designing quantitative research based upon the principles of good research design will be provided in class. Conceptual material to support research design decisions is provided on Blackboard. Note that this assessment does not involve data collection.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Length: 1500 words excluding references, Figures and Tables
Relates to objectives:
Unit objectives: 1, 2, 3, and AOL goals: KNO (1.1), ARS (2.1), (2,2), COM (3.2)
Weight:
50%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Week 7
Assessment name:
Qualitative Research Design
Description:
You will be provided with a qualitative research article to critique. The critique will involve the identification of the strengths and limitations in the design of the study based upon the principles and assumptions of good research design consistent with realising the article's stated research purpose(s) from a qualitative perspective. On this basis individuals will then develop an alternative research design consistent with realising the research purpose(s), again based upon the principles of good research design, from a qualitative perspective. Opportunities to practice article critique and designing qualitative research based upon the principles of good research design will be provided in class. Conceptual material to support design decisions is provided on Blackboard. Note that this assessment does not involve data collection.
Length:1,500 words excluding references, Figures and Tables
Formative or Summative Summative
Relates to objectives:
Unit objectives: 1, 2, 3 and AOL goals: KNO (1.1), ARS (2.1), (2.2), COM (3.2)
Weight:
50%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Week 14
Academic Honesty
QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.
A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.
Resource materials
Prescribed Text
There is no prescribed text for this unit. Check the website for readings.
Required References
Check unit's Blackboard site for guided readings.
Other Resources
Check unit's Blackboard site for videos.
Risk assessment statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with lectures or tutorials in this unit. You should, however, familiarise yourself with evacuation procedures operating in the buildings in which you attend classes and take the time to
view the Emergency video.
Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.
Last modified: 24-Jan-2013
