Research Methods

Module Description

This module is designed for learners who want and need to gain understanding of research approaches and skills and gain an ability to deploy research methods in their studies and/or in professional lives. In particular, this module will guide the students on the way to go about their dissertation as part of their postgraduate studies and it is for those who feel they would like additional support for self-improvement. 

This module is a comprehensive introduction to research methods and will cover broad topics:  the fundamentals of doing research, research methods, research design, data collection, and data analysis. In discussing each topic, the ethical implications of research will be covered. Research is a craft, and like any other craft, it takes practice to do it well. Therefore, this module places the student experience at the centre of our endeavours by engaging learners in a range of robust and challenging discussions and exercises. Learners will have opportunity to learn by doing in all aspects of the course—in class meetings, online classroom, and out-of-class assignments. 

No prior knowledge or experience in research is required to take this course. 

Entry Requirements

Candidates who apply for this course must possess one of the following: 

• a Level 6 degree in a related field;  

 OR 

• a Level 5 diploma or higher diploma and 5 years’ work experience in a supervisory or managerial role. 

Preference is given to applicants having a level 6 degree in a discipline related to project management and a minimum of 3 years’ work experience in project supervision or/and general management within the sector.  

Target Audience

The programme is targeted at: 

• industry professionals working in different project-rich domains including, but not limited, to: construction, technology, engineering, finance, banking, management, marketing, gaming, healthcare, arts, education or any other sector where project management is being applied; 
• individuals seeking academic and professional advancement in project management; 
• mid-career-break professionals looking for opportunities to return to or change their career. 

Career Paths

The possible positions for which this programme aims to prepare you for include:

• Project Manager/ Leader
• Project Director
• Project Consultant

How you’ll be assessed

The course comprises:

• Evening classes for part-time courses.
• Classes held throughout the day for full-time courses.
• Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.
• Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.

Assessment

Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:

• Modular Assessment
• Dissertation Assessment

The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.