MBA research projects: knowledge and skills expected

MBA research projects: knowledge and skills expected re module guide [latest]:

Knowledge

K1.       An understanding of specific substantive problems or issues within an organisation or business sector placing them into a strategic context within the research investigation.

K2.       A critical understanding of valid research questions via a review of the academic literature; a critical review of the activities and operations of the organisation/sector and the environment in which it operates.

K3.       A clear understanding of different research methodologies and their limitations and be able to critically explain when one might be more appropriate than another in the context of the chosen research topic.

K4.       That the project findings have been logically derived and that the conclusions/solutions and recommendations are fully supported by the evidence presented.

K5.       That the recommendations for strategic change in the organisation/business sector investigated are capable of implementation

K6.       How the personal and organisational learning that has taken place has affected the development of your skills and competences during the completion of your programme of study.

Skills

S1.       The necessary skills to design and undertake appropriate qualitative and / or quantitative research as necessary to analyse your chosen organisation/business problem or task.   

S2.       How to interpret record and analyse data relating to the research topic.

The chosen project will include:

A clear abstract.

A clear account of the organisation/business sector being investigated.

A review of relevant academic literature and derivation of valid research questions both from the literature and the organisation/business sector issues.

A review of the methodological issues concerning the research question including critical evaluation of alternative research methodologies and their limitations.

A review of the research method adopted and data collection techniques including interviews, observations, and participant observation and their implications and limitations.

Interpretation and analysis of qualitative, and if appropriate quantitative data, using appropriate statistical and computational techniques.

A clear presentation of empirical findings and implications for the activities and operation of the organisation/business sector.