Postgraduate Module Descriptors 2012/13
HRM480: Dissertation
Module Title |
Dissertation |
Module Code |
HRM480 |
Module Tutor |
Darren Caudle |
School |
Business and Management |
CAT Points |
60 |
Level of Study |
7 |
Pre-requisites |
PASS IN A RELEVANT POST-GRADUATE DIPLOMA |
Co-requisites |
None |
Restrictions |
None |
Brief Description |
The purpose of the dissertation is to allow the student to carry out a self-managed piece of work that provides an in-depth investigation of an issue relevant to the field of HR Management or Development. The dissertation allows the student to critically evaluate and synthesise relevant philosophies, theories and models, undertake a process of enquiry using primary and/or secondary data sources and contribute to the body of knowledge in the domain of management and business. The reflective element of the dissertation will give the student an opportunity to critically analyse and evaluate their experience of the learning process. |
Indicative Syllabus |
The dissertation module consists of two elements: a taught business research methods programme and the dissertation based on individual study. As part of the business research methods element, students will be required to produce a detailed research proposal before progressing onto the dissertation element of the module.
The business research methods programme encompasses three main themes:
- Critical consideration of the methods and purposes of the subject/practice within a broader context of enquiry. Topics covered include: importance of theory, research philosophy and approaches, validity, reliability and generalizability, research strategies and ethical issues in research.
- Practical induction into learning skills for postgraduate study. Topics covered include: reviewing literature and data sources, referencing writing critically, using information technology tools and developing reflective writing skills.
- Training in specific methods/techniques appropriate as preparation for research or professional practice. Topics covered include: the purposes and process of research and consultancy in the management and business domain, planning an enquiry including formulating and clarifying research questions and objectives, negotiating access, the presentation of research proposals: differing requirements of organizational and academic audiences, the need for critical evaluation, methods for data collection and data analysis and presentation of research findings.
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Learning Outcomes |
On successful completion of the module the student should be able to:
- Understand, reflect upon, apply and (for the highest marks) develop theory from analysis of data;
- Analyse alternative approaches to research within the domain of management and business and the assumptions upon which these are based;
- Argue and evaluate critically alternative research claims with justification;
- Formulate strategies for successful research within a variety of settings paying special attention to the ethical implications;
- Select and utilise appropriate research methods effectively paying attention to generalisability;
- Collect data to meet academic and organisational needs;
- Synthesise and analyse both qualitative and quantitative data having due regard to the issues of validity, reliability;
- Engage in both professional and academic communication following appropriate conventions;
- Write reflectively upon their dissertation experience
- Produce a substantive academic research dissertation, based on recognised and justified research methods, to include description of a range of research approaches and methods.
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Learning and Teaching Activities |
Approximately: 21 hours class contact (Business Research Methods) 15 hours with Dissertation Advisor 564 hours independent study/student directed learning |
Assessment (For further details see the Module Guide) |
001: 10% Coursework: Research Proposal / P3: 1500 words or equivalent
002: 90% Coursework: : Final Dissertation: 18000 words or equivalent including representation of research proposal
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Special Assessment Requirements |
None |
Indicative Resources |
The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide. |