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Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title Research & Professional Portfolio
Module Code ACC1029 (ITS: AC585)
Faculty DCU Business School School DCU Business School
NFQ level 9 Credit Rating 25
Description

The aim of this module is to give participants an understanding of the processes involved in undertaking social science research with a particular emphasis on research in accounting. Their understanding of the research process will be enhanced by exposing them to a number of philosophies in, methodologies applied to and topics in accounting research. The module also aims to equip participants with a set of appropriate analytical and critical thinking skills by encouraging them to question what they read, to develop their own ideas and engage in academic debate with their peers and academic tutors. Participants will be expected to use these skills together with their knowledge of research in accounting in the development of their individual research portfolio.

Learning Outcomes

1. Distinguish the different stages in the research process
2. Demonstrate a working knowledge of basic research methodologies, data analysis and interpretation. This includes thinking in a critical manner about the theoretical and practical implications of particular research methodologies
3. Recognise the broader international, regulatory, societal and environment contexts in which research is conducted and research output is evaluated.
4. Manage themselves and team members when undertaking independent study and group assessment
5. Engage in academic debate with peers and academic tutors
6. Demonstrate an ability to undertake a critical review of prior research literature culminating in the development of coherent arguments


WorkloadFull time hours per semester
TypeHoursDescription
Lecture24No Description
Lecture24No Description
Group work12Group Assignment
Independent Study250Individual Reading
Independent Study315Individual Writing
Total Workload: 625
Section Breakdown
CRN10058Part of TermSemester 1, 2 & 3
Coursework0%Examination Weight0%
Grade Scale50PASSPass Both ElementsY
Resit CategoryRC2Best MarkN
Module Co-ordinatorOrla FeeneyModule TeacherAideen O'Dochartaigh
Assessment Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Report(s)Individual writing, engagement and reflection25%As required
Report(s)Group work (oral and written presentation), engagement and reflection25%As required
ParticipationIndividual writing assignment50%As required
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
RC1: A resit is available for both* components of the module.
RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module.
RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element.

* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None

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

Introduction to Research
Types of research, ethics in research, research objectives and research questions, attributes of good research

The Research Process
Research philosophies and different research methodologies

Writing & Academic Literature
Audience identification, literature review and critique, resources and sources, argument development, structure and referencing

Developments in Accounting Thought
Exposure to mainstream, critical and interpretative perspectives in accounting

Critical Accounting Issues
Accounting as a profession; regulation of accounting; professional & organisational identity in accounting; corporate social responsibility, reporting and accountability; issues of corporate governance; educational challenges in accounting; practising critical accounting

Indicative Reading List

Books:
None

Articles:
None
Other Resources

None

<< Back to Module List View 2024/25 Module Record for AC585