This paper introduces students to a range of methods for undertaking research in the social sciences, including interpretivist and positivist methods.The paper introduces students to the conceptual and methodological skills needed to think and perform as researchers.The required competencies are developed through the reading of a wide range of academic literature, debate with colleagues, and the completion of a set of assessment designed to grow research understanding and skills. At the end of the semester, students will be required to submit a research proposal in their area of interest addressing all steps in the research process, viz. generation of a research question, literature review, choosing an appropriate method to answer the question, and descriptions of proposed methods of data collection and data analysis.

Key objectives of the paper include:

1.To acquaint students with both research philosophies and methods utilised in management studies;

2.To educate students in the theory-centred elements of research methods, providing them with an appreciation of how theories are developed and tested;

3.To familiarise students with a broad repertoire of research methods;

4.To develop skills in the choice and application of a specific research methods to a specific research project; and

5.To develop the ability to critically evaluate published research.

The formal part of the course consists of online workshops that will take place in a lecture theatre but will be recorded via zoom or Panopto. Students are participate.

The emphasis during the workshops is on discussion and sharing of ideas and experiences. Students are expected to have read the recommended readings before the scheduled workshops. In this paper, the lecturers will give advice primarily on methods issues. For domain specific knowledge, students are encouraged to contact their department.

The paper convener will take the lead for each section but expect a range of participants to be involved.

It is expected students will always be ready to participate and provide both questions and ideas.

Note the timetabled slots are for 2 hour which we will use when we have student presentations but on other days only one hour will be spent in formal learning activities.

This is a 500 level course, and the 30 points represents approximately 300 learning hours on the part of the students. This course runs over 13 weeks, students are expected to put in at least 25 hours per week of learning effort over the duration of the course.