Research Methods
10 ECTS
Research Methods
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€1,054 refund on this module
Module Description
This module is designed for learners who want and need to gain an understanding of research approaches and skills and gain an ability to deploy research methods in their studies or in their professional lives.
In particular, this module will aid those who have to conduct research 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.
No prior knowledge or experience in research is required to take this course.
Entry Requirements
Candidates who apply for this course will hold a:
- Level 6 Degree related to one of the following areas: Finance and/or Accounting.
OR
- Level 6 degree not related to Finance and/or Accounting and a minimum of two years relevant experience (subject to interview by admissions board)
OR
- Level 5 Diploma or Higher Diploma related to Finance and/or Accounting and 4 years’ work experience preferably in a position related to the subject area of this programme (subject to interview by admissions board).
In the case of mature students who do not possess all the formal required academic qualifications, then the RPL process could be applied such that if evidence of equivalent learning is found then the applicant could still be accepted in the course. Such RPL process will subject applicants to an interview held with a board of experts within the field, chosen specifically by IDEA Academy, so as to verify their experiences and prior learning.
IDEA Academy will accept in transfer up to two of the ACCA Strategic Professional examinations completed by prospective students, these being one or maximum two of the following:
- Strategic Business Leader
- Strategic Business Reporting
- Advanced Financial Management
- Advanced Audit and Assurance
Students whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate English language capability at IELTS level 6.0 or equivalent.
Target Audience
- Individuals seeking to advance their academic and professional knowledge in Accounting.
- Individuals who already have a good foundation in accountancy and would like to take their studies a step further by embarking onto professional modules intended to broaden their knowledge for them to work independently and become certified public accountants and registered auditors.
- Individuals wanting to pursue a wide range of accounting, consulting, financial, and managerial career paths with the intention of leading a team of individuals and helping their junior staff progress as well as assisting their employers in making the right decisions.
- Individuals wanting to enhance their ability to interpret, assess, and communicate financial related data in a way that ensures proactivity and, to a certain extent, devise strategies for the business.
Career Paths
The programme prepares for positions such as and not limited to:
- Business Strategy Role
- Chief Financial Officer
- Income Tax Specialist
- VAT Specialist
- Senior Managerial Role
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
- Summative 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.
Learning Outcomes
Competences:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
- Critically formulate research questions and design appropriate research proposal.
- Critically analyse and interpret both qualitative and quantitative data using computer-based skills.
- Develop and apply research skills on data collection methods.
- Critically evaluate own research and that of other scientists.
Knowledge: At the end of the module Students will have been exposed to critically analyse, challenge, evaluate, assess and synthesise key indicative content:
- Introduction to research.
- Research problem identification and formulation.
- Literature survey and review.
- Project management.
- Dissertation Proposal writing and presentation.
Skills:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- Critically analyse a range of quantitative and qualitative research designs and identify the advantages and disadvantages associated with these designs.
- Critically assess the appropriateness of quantitative and qualitative methods to collect data.
- Apply knowledge on how to choose the most appropriate research method to address a particular research question.
- Deploy techniques of analysis and enquiry to critically evaluate research strategies, research findings, and the reliability and validity of information.
Module-Specific Communication Skills:
The learner will be able to:
- Communicate and present to the wider audience ideas, research proposals, literature survey/review and research outcomes in a clear, concise, succinct, organized and structured way as per the guidelines.
- Acquire and critically discuss academic writing and dissemination skills.
Module-Specific Digital Skills and Competences:
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will be able to:
- Navigate through the online learning platform to find assignments, discussion boards, literature, tutorials etc.