In-Depth Business Research Techniques for Managers

Data and Business Intelligence

Project Management

(
HRML704
)
Unit Code
HRML704
Level
Level 7
Distance Learning
£290
Class Room
£1490
Verification
BLOCKCHAIN-BASED
Unit Code
HRML704
Level
Level 7
Distance Learning Fee
£290
Face to Face Fee
£1490
Verification
BLOCKCHAIN-BASED
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Total Fee £1600

£2360 (£1600 during the tuition waiver period)

Please see the Tuition Fee section to see if you are eligible for a scholarship.
Course Overview

This module aims to immerse students in the intricacies of business research specifically tailored for people to practise. Recognising the pivotal role of evidence-based decision-making in HR and people management, the course delves into the methodologies, tools and techniques crucial for conducting rigorous and impactful research. Students will be exposed to both qualitative and quantitative research methods, ensuring they are well-equipped to choose the most appropriate method for their inquiries. Emphasis is placed on the ethical considerations inherent in people-focused research, as well as the practical challenges of collecting and analysing data in organisational settings. Through hands-on experiences and case studies, learners will not only understand the theoretical underpinnings of business research but also appreciate its real-world implications and applications in shaping effective people strategies and interventions. By the end of the module, students will be adept at designing, executing and interpreting business research, making them invaluable assets in any organisational context that prioritises evidence-driven people practices.

Course Content

Introduction to Business Research in People Practice

  • Foundations of Business Research
    • The Scope and Significance of Business Research
    • Integrating Business Research with People Practice
    • Traditional Vs. Evidence-Based Practices
  • Role of Research in HR and People Management
    • Identifying Key Areas for Research in HR
    • Research Outcomes Links to Business Strategy
    • Decision-Making in People Management Through Research
  • Overview of Research Methodologies
    • Qualitative Vs. Quantitative Methods
    • Mixed-Methods Approach
    • Selecting Appropriate Methodologies for Specific HR Issues

Designing Research for People Practice

  • formulating Research Questions and Hypotheses
    • Identifying Relevant and Impactful Research Topics
    • Constructing Clear and Concise Research Questions
    • Developing Hypotheses for People Practice Scenarios
  • Research Design and Planning
    • Structuring Effective Research Projects
    • Resource and Timeline Management
    • Anticipating Challenges and Mitigating Risks
  • Ethical Considerations in Research
    • Ethical Dilemmas in Business Research
    • Ensuring Participant Privacy and Data Confidentiality
    • Institutional Review Boards and Compliance Issues

Qualitative Research Methods

  • Data Collection Techniques
    • Interviews and Focus Groups
    • Observations and Case Studies
    • Document and Content Analysis
  • Data Analysis and Interpretation
    • Coding and Thematic Analysis
    • Ensuring Credibility and Trustworthiness
    • Drawing Meaningful Conclusions from Qualitative Data
  • Challenges in Qualitative Research
    • Addressing Subjectivity and Bias
    • Ensuring Depth and Richness in Data
    • Managing Large Volumes of Textual Data

Quantitative Research Methods

  • Data Collection and Management
    • Surveys and Questionnaires
    • Experimental and Quasi-Experimental Designs
    • Database Management and Data Cleaning
  • Statistical Analysis
    • Descriptive and Inferential Statistics
    • Regression Analysis and Hypothesis Testing
    • Using Software for Statistical Computation
  • Challenges in Quantitative Research
    • Ensuring Validity and Reliability
    • Dealing with Non-Response and Missing Data
    • Interpreting Results in the Context of People Practice

Integrating Technology in Business Research

  • Digital Tools and Software for Research
    • Leveraging Data Analytics and Visualization Tools
    • Using HRIS (Human Resource Information Systems) for Data Collection and Analysis
    • Advancements in Ai and Machine Learning for People Analytics
  • Online Data Collection Method
    • Conducting Web-Based Surveys and Polls
    • Social Media Analytics and Sentiment Analysis
    • Ethical and Privacy Concerns in Digital Data Collection
  • Emerging Trends in HR Technology
    • Predictive Analytics in People Management
    • The Role of Big Data in Shaping HR Strategies
    • The Future of Work with Tech-Driven Insights

Practical Challenges in Business Research

  • Data Collection Challenges
    • Addressing Non-Responsiveness and Sampling Issues
    • Organizational Dynamics and Culture
    • Managing Cross-Cultural and Global Research Projects
  • Data Analysis and Interpretation Challenges
    • Overcoming Complexity in Data Analysis
    • Avoiding Misinterpretation of Statistical Results
    • Communicating Complex Findings to Non-Expert Audiences
  • Operational and Logistical Challenges
    • Resource Allocation and Budgeting for Research Projects
    • Time Management and Meeting Deadlines
    • Adapting Research Plans in Dynamic Business Environments

Communicating Research Findings and Informing Strategy

  • Effective Presentation of Research Outcomes
    • Crafting Impactful Reports and Presentations
    • Visualizing Data for Clarity and Impact
    • Tailoring Communication to Different Stakeholder Groups
  • Translating Research into Actionable Strategies
    • Linking Findings to Strategic People Management Initiatives
    • Driving Change with Evidence-Based Recommendations
  • Ethical Use and Dissemination of Research
    • Integrity in Reporting and Application of Results
    • Responsible Use of Research Insights
    • Confidentiality and Data Protection Issues
Learning Outcome & Assessment Criteria

1.  Understand the foundational principles and methodologies of business research in the context of people practise

  1. Describe the key principles underlying evidence-based decision-making in HR and people management
  2. Compare and contrast qualitative and quantitative research methods, highlighting their applicability in different research scenarios
  3. Evaluate the ethical considerations inherent in people-focused research
  4. Analyse the challenges and advantages of various research tools and techniques in organisational settings

2.  Design and formulate rigorous research questions and hypotheses relevant to people's practice

  1. Identify gaps in current HR and people management literature and practices
  2. Formulate clear, focused and researchable questions or hypotheses
  3. Design a comprehensive research framework, including methods, sample selection and data collection tools
  4. Justify the chosen research design based on the context and purpose of the study

3.  Execute and manage research projects, ensuring validity, reliability and ethical integrity

  1. Apply appropriate research methodologies to gather data effectively
  2. Manage and monitor the research process, ensuring timelines and ethical standards are met
  3. Assess the reliability and validity of collected data
  4. Reflect critically on potential biases and limitations during the research process

4.  Analyse, interpret and communicate research findings to inform people practices and strategies

  1. Analyse collected data using suitable analytical tools and techniques
  2. Draw conclusions based on the analysed data, relating findings to the original research questions or hypotheses
  3. Communicate research findings effectively to a range of stakeholders, both in written and verbal formats
  4. Make recommendations for HR practices or policies based on research insights, ensuring practical relevance and applicability
Assessment
  • The assessment strategy for this course is designed to test all the learning outcomes.
  • Learners must demonstrate successful achievement of all learning outcomes to pass the course.
Assessment Marking Criteria

Scholarships

Citizens of the following countries are eligible for a 50% scholarship upon writing a personal statement. All scholarships are to be approved by the Academic Board. The list of countries are: Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Philippines, Bhutan, Morocco, Vietnam, Papua New Guinea, Laos, Cambodia, India, Nigeria, Ghana, Bangladesh, Laos, Myanmar, Pakistan, Nepal and South Africa. Please talk to your student counselor and ask for the Coupon Code to get the 50% Tuition Waiver.

  • The assessment criteria for a pass will be presented with the summative exercise.
  • Further information and guidance on the assessment will be made available through the tutor.
Unit Pass Requirements

To pass the unit a 40% overall grade must be achieved.

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