Module: Research Methodology

Module Specifications.

Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025

All Module information is indicative, and this portal is an interim interface pending the full upgrade of Coursebuilder and subsequent integration to the new DCU Student Information System (DCU Key).

As such, this is a point in time view of data which will be refreshed periodically. Some fields/data may not yet be available pending the completion of the full Coursebuilder upgrade and integration project. We will post status updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Date posted: September 2024

Module Title	Research Methodology
Module Code	HR5016 (ITS) / MNA1059 (Banner)
Faculty	DCU Business School	School	DCU Business School
Module Co-ordinator	Margaret Heffernan
Module Teachers	-
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	Not Available
Co-requisite	Not Available
Compatibles	Not Available
Incompatibles	Not Available

None
Array

Description

This module aims to introduce students to the array of options available to researchers when considering organisational research by providing an overview of research methods in the area of HRM and the social sciences. The module begins by examining the elements of a dissertation – from choosing a topic to the literature review and research proposal. It introduces the learner to epistemological and ontological issues of social science research and considers the theoretical and practical aspects of research design. Methods of data collection are identified and their strengths and limitations explored. Examination and interpretation of data is explained. Ethical issues in research are also considered.

Learning Outcomes

1. Understand the role and significance of doing research within social science, business and HRM and L&D contexts
2. Identify, distinguish and evaluate different research paradigms, philosophies and epistemologies.
3. Conduct an information search of appropriate literature and data sources and reference the work of others following appropriate academic conventions
4. Choose and justify an appropriate research methodology
5. Reflect on the personal, professional and ethical issues issues involved in undertaking research in an organisational context.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Lecture	24	Classroom and/or online lectures
Independent Study	45	Reading, research, collaborative learning, exercises
Assignment Completion	45	Preparing assignment
Online activity	11	Completion of online activities
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Learning activities
The majority of classroom contact focuses on the planning and execution of academic research for a Masters dissertation/management research report.

The dissertation process
What is research; the research proposal; Philosophical foundations of Organisational Research; Ethical perspectives on applied research; Qualitative and Quantitative Methods; Data analysis; Research writing and reporting.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	100%	Examination Weight	0%

Type	Description	% of total
Course Work Breakdown
Assignment	Watson Box	20%
Assignment	Research Proposal	80%

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories: Resit category 1: A resit is available for both* components of the module. Resit category 2: No resit is available for a 100% continuous assessment module. Resit category 3: No resit is available for the continuous assessment component where there is a continuous assessment and examination element.
* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a Continuous Assessment/Examination split; where the module is 100% continuous assessment, there will also be a resit of the assessment
This module is category 1

Indicative Reading List

Bryman, A. and Bell, E.: 2011, Business Research Methods, 3rd, Oxford University Press.,

Other Resources

None