Analytics and Research Skills for International Business

BMAN70301 Analytics and Research Skills for International Business 15 Semester 1 Postgraduate Taught Level 7 Xia Han Unit coordinator Asmund Rygh Unit coordinator 1 FHEQ level (Framework for Higher Education Qualifications) ' Masters/Integrated Masters P4 ' European Credit Transfer & Accumulation System Rating : 7.5 This course unit gives an introduction to analytics and research methods in international and comparative business research. The unit will include basic research methods topics including research question identification, literature review, research design, data collection and data analysis. The unit will cover the collection of secondary data from key business-related databases and other sources, as well as primary data collection through interviews and surveys, and case study methods. Quantitative data analysis such as descriptive statistics and regression analysis, and qualitative data analysis such as thematic and content analysis, using appropriate computer software, will also be covered.   This course unit gives an introduction to analytics and research methods in international and comparative business research. The unit will include basic research methods topics including research question identification, literature review, research design, data collection and data analysis. The unit will cover the collection of secondary data from key business-related databases and other sources, as well as primary data collection through interviews and surveys, and case study methods. Quantitative data analysis such as descriptive statistics and regression analysis, and qualitative data analysis such as thematic and content analysis, using appropriate computer software, will also be covered.  The purpose of this course unit is to teach students the basics of research methods in international and comparative business research. It gives students an assessment of the contexts within which different methods may be used and how they should be implemented. In addition to giving a thorough introduction to the practice of doing research, the unit relates issues of research method to wider debates within the international and business and management field, such as the links between theoretical traditions and the research approach. The unit shows students how to go about doing their own research projects and how to write up their research. It contains up to date empirical research examples from international and comparative business, and thus carefully mixes theoretical issues with practical applications. The unit also helps prepare students for their dissertation project through the development of a dissertation research proposal.   When students have completed this course unit they should:<ul> <li> Have a critical understanding of arguments concerning the nature and status of academic research in the social sciences.</li> <li> Understand the main methodologies used in research in their area and be aware of the strengths and weaknesses associated with different research techniques, and the production, meaning and use of data.</li> <li> Be able to utilise major qualitative and quantitative methods for collecting and analysing research data.</li> <li> Be familiar with key data sources and master the use of appropriate computer software for business research.</li> <li> Understand the key steps in carrying out a research project and selecting a proper methodological approach.</li> <li> Be able to develop a project plan and proposal (research topic, research question and methodology) for the dissertation research project.</li></ul>  0 Other 100% • Individual Computer-based Coursework - 50%• Individual Dissertation Proposal Coursework - 50% Informal feedback methodsInformal advice and discussion during a lecture, seminar, workshop or lab.Responses to student emails and questions from a member of staff including feedback provided to a group via an online discussion forum.Written and/or verbal comments on assessed or non-assessed coursework. MSc Int Business & Management MSc Int Bus & Management-Mgmt PGDT Taught Component Mandatory MSc Int Business & Management MSc Int Bus & Management PGDT Taught Component Mandatory N  <ul> <li> Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2019). Research methods for business students. Harlow: Pearson.</li></ul> Further reading<ul> <li> Cassell, C. and G. Symon, Eds. (2004). Essential Guide to Qualitative Methods in Organizational Research. London: Sage Publications.</li> <li> Cleff, T. (2014). Exploratory data analysis in business and economics. Cham: Springer International Publishing.</li> <li> Marschan-Piekkari, R. and C. Welch, Eds. (2004). Handbook of qualitative research methods for international business. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar Publishing.</li></ul> The final reading lists including selected journal articles will be provided with the full course outline at the start of the semester. Lectures 20 Practical classes & workshops 10 0 110 Informal Contact MethodOnline Learning Activities (blogs, discussions, self assessment questions)