Module: Research Methodology

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Research Methodology
Module Code	MNA1059 (ITS: HR5016)
Faculty	DCU Business School	School	DCU Business School
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	5

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

Section Breakdown
CRN	20731	Part of Term	Semester 2
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Claire Gubbins	Module Teacher	Niamh Daly

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Assignment	Change project Research Proposal	100%	n/a

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

Learning activities
The majority of classroom contact focuses on the planning and execution of research to aid the completion of the strategic consultancy project in year 2.

The research 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.

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Bell, E, Bryman, A. and Harley, B.: 2021, Business Research Methods, 3rd, Oxford University Press.,

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None