The aim of this module is to enable students to undertake a significant piece of independent research on a particular topic in the business and management field. This module provides students with opportunities to: (i) apply their learning to analyse contemporary and ‘cutting-edge’ problems and issues of relevance to scholars or practitioners (or both); (ii) deepen their knowledge and understanding of a particular topic of interest to them; (iii) gain a solid understanding of different research methods to effectively address research questions; (iv) produce a complete piece of scholarly work or a project of practical value from conception through to a final dissertation or report; (v) further their independent research skills (i.e., research mothods, project management, and academic writing); (vi) improve their presentation skills, enabling them to effectively communicate and showcase their research to others; (vii) enhance their intellectual and employability skills and their career prospects; and (viii) make an original contribution with either theoretical or practical value. Students should identify, define and explore one or more problems or issues at the forefront of business and management as an academic discipline. This may lead to a large piece of independent writing in one of the following 5 styles: • Standard academic research based dissertation • Business plan • Business evaluation report • Teaching Case • Company based project on a particular issue The research work should demonstrate: (i) an analytical and critical approach to problem definition; (ii) the derivation of appropriate research questions and/or hypotheses; (iii) skills in designing and implementing a suitable methodology for gathering, analysing and interpreting data and information that address the research problem, questions and/or hypotheses; (iv) knowledge and understanding of literature and theory relevant to the area of inquiry, and the ability to apply it appropriately; (v) the ability to compose the research as a dissertation in a way that combines academic depth and good scholarship with an appreciation of relevant practical and policy issues (as appropriate) in relevant subject areas, and (vi) the ability to effectively present the research orally to an audience.
A. Demonstrate a substantial and systematic understanding of current and recent theory in business and management. B. Select and apply relevant theories to formulate appropriate research questions. C. Collect and analyse data using suitable approaches. D. Present findings in a coherent and logical flow. E. Show evidence of independent thinking
As the MSc dissertation is an independent research project, students are expected to manage their time and workload independently with guidance from their dissertation supervisor. Lectures and tutorials on quantitative and qualitative research method are provided during the first four weeks of Semester 3. Typically, the dissertation process begins with identifying a research focus. Students can choose their dissertation topic in one of the following ways: 1. Select a topic proposed by IBSS faculties and seek agreement with the faculty member. 2. Self-select a topic and approach the faculty who has similar research interest and seek agreement. Students are expected to work on their confirmed dissertation plan once their supervisor approves it. The dissertation supervisor's role is to support students throughout their dissertation project once supervision is confirmed, with guidance ending upon submission of the final dissertation. Supervisors are expected to provide advice and suggestions in the following areas: • Research topic selection – Students should propose a narrowly focused topic for discussion. • Review of relevant literature – Supervisors may suggest readings, and students are expected to expand from the recommended sources. • Select research methods – A key area where supervisors should offer substantial guidance to help students understand how to prepare and conduct data collection nd analysis. • Development of conclusions – Ensuring students can effectively interpret and present their research finings. • Development of presentation skills – Helping students effectively communicate and showcase their research.