Research Methods
6 Credits (ECTS)
Research Methods
Get 70% back via Tax Credit
€613 refund on this module
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 or in 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 center of our endeavors 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.
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 managerial role.
Preference is given to applicants having a Level 6 degree in a discipline related to construction, and a minimum of 3 years’ work experience in management within the industry.
Target Audience
This course is targeted at professionals with supervisory and/or middle management experience in the construction industry who wish to have a more thorough background in the subject in order to further advance their careers , namely:
- Architects and Civil Engineers
- Mechanical and Electrical Building Services Engineers
- Project Managers and Coordinators
- Project Owners
The target group can be extended to groups working within the construction industry, such as logistics managers, maintenance managers and facilities managers.
Career Paths
This programme aims to prepare you for senior posts within the industry, such as that of construction manager, head of the construction department or construction director of any construction organisation both in the private and public sector.
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:
- Assessment 1
- Assessment 2
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.
Additional Info
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be eligible for a 70% refund of the cost through the ‘Get Qualified’ scheme.**
Due to the modular structure of the course, you may also opt to take individual modules as stand-alone. The entry requirements still apply.***
*Prices are applicable to students who reside in Malta at the time of applying.
**Terms and conditions apply.
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.
- Collect own data using a variety of methods.
- Critically analyse both qualitative and quantitative data using computer-based skills.
- Critically evaluate own research and that of other scientists.
Knowledge:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have been exposed to the following:
- The nature of business and management research as it relates to construction industry.
- Qualitative Research.
- Quantitative Research.
- Mixed Methods.
- Attributes of good research topics.
- Strategies to negotiate and gain access.
- Research design, data collection, and data analysis.
- Structuring your dissertation/project report.
Skills:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- Formulate research questions and design appropriate research.
- Collect own data using a variety of methods.
- Analyze both qualitative and quantitative data using computer-based skills.
- Critically evaluate own research and that of other scientists.
Judgment Skills and Critical Abilities:
The learner will be able to:
- Critically apply knowledge and skills to devise solutions to unfamiliar problems.
- Conduct and evaluate research.
- Evaluate and critically appropriate to their disciplines (e.g. collect, analyse and interpret data and information, generate and test hypotheses, synthesise and organise information)
- Know what research methods to use to be crafted to address particular issue(s)
- Interpret findings.
Module-Specific Learner Skills:
The learner will be able to:
- Undertake independent and self-directed study through research, both primary and secondary.
Module-Specific Digital Skills and Competences:
The learner will be able to:
- Navigate through the online learning platform to find assignments, discussion boards, literature, tutorials etc.