Research Methods in International Business Module - Online MSc

Introduction and module objectives

One of the important capabilities for the early career manager is to be able to carry out systematic and effective research into business problems. This module exposes students to the range of research strategies available as well as specific methodologies, tools and techniques that can be applied within these strategies. While the content of the module will be good preparation for further academic research work, the primary aim of the module is pragmatic and practical. As such therefore, the module will address the practicalities of: finding data sources, interviewing, survey methods, etc, and critically, will expose students to the relative costs and benefits of these approaches.   

The module will introduce students to a range of analytical techniques, and in particular, will explore the use of “big data”.      

The module will also be critical preparation for the main dissertation module.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the module, students should be able to:

  • Explain the main philosophical paradigms used in business and management research, and the relative merits and drawbacks of each.
  • Design and produce a research strategy.      
  • Design and produce a project plan for a research project.     
  • Explain the benefits and limitations of statistical data.    
  • Explain the benefits and limitations of qualitative data.   
  • Explain the benefits and limits of method triangulation.
  • Understand and explain the role of theoretical concepts and analytical frameworks, and the methods of linking those frameworks to data.
  • Appreciate the scope, content and thresholds of evidence and argument for a Masters level research report including appropriate consideration of terminology, argument development, and referencing.  

Skills:      

  • Develop an ability to carry out efficient and effective interviews.
  • Be able to collect and analyse statistical data.
  • Be able to design a basic survey instrument.
  • Be able to cost a research project or the use of a particular methodology.