Module: Research Methodology

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Research Methodology
Module Code	MNA1088 (ITS: HR596)
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. Explain the nature and purpose of research
2. Prepare a literature review
3. Identify the main stages in the research process
4. Examine the philosophical issues that underpin research
5. Choose and justify an appropriate research methodology
6. Recognise and appraise ethical issues that may arise while carrying out research

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	16	Outline of models, approaches and methodologies 24.0 Independent learning Reading, research, collaborative learning, exercises
Independent Study	69	Reading, research, collaborative learning, exercises
Assignment Completion	40	Preparing assignments
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	20741	Part of Term	Semester 2
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale		Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category		Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Damien Dupré	Module Teacher	Edel Conway, Lisa Van Der Werff, Margaret Heffernan

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Assignment	Watson Box	20%	Week 1
Assignment	Research Proposal	80%	Week 1

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 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.

Indicative Reading List

Books:

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

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None