MGT242   Research Methods   (20 credits)

Description

Managers use knowledge in all decision making and may commission research to meet their information needs. An understanding of research methods is critical to appreciate how knowledge is produced, the assumptions unerpinning this process, and the inevitable limitations. Any research design is a compromise between ideal methods and available resources. Research design is based on competing assumptions about the nature of knowledge and will be conducted with varying degrees of technical expertise. An understanding of the process of knowledge production will enable students to critically evaluate research results - whether other people's or their own. This module will include setting objectives, conducting literature reviews, the philosophy of research, distinctive characteristics of management research; quantitative research - sampling, questionnaire design, piloting, introduction to statistical analysis, use of SPSS; qualitative research - interview design and conduct, focus groups, content analysis using NVivo; case studies, direct observation, secondary data, evaluation research, presenting a research report, politics of research.

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