Module Directory

Students undertake an extended, independent research project. The module combines research methods skills developed on the programme and thesis writing skills.

Students will identify and formulate a research problem and question; review relevant literature; design research to address the problem; collect and analyse data; and communicate findings and conclusions effectively in writing. In the process, students will reflect on professional and personal learning undertaken from conducting and writing up the research.

The aims of this module are

• To produce an extended, independent, piece of research based on a contemporary people and/or organisational management issue.


• To undertake a thorough review of literature and current knowledge.


• To assess the quality and relevance of evidence sources and the potential for bias.


• To assimilate evidence and analyse the main findings to draw realistic and appropriate conclusions and recommendations from the research.


• To provide evidence of personal reflection and critical review of the work.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Apply an academic framework within which relevant empirical and theoretical work is evaluated.


2. Critically analyse a wide range of literature systemically gathered.


3. Articulate a clear statement of research based on a contemporary people and/or organisational management issue.


4. Demonstrate rigorous application of knowledge and skills of chosen research method and data analysis.


5. Assimilate and systematically present research findings that are relevant to the research questions.


6. Identify conclusions justified by the empirical and/or theoretical material.


7. Demonstrate concise and thoughtful conclusions derived from the evidence presented, with timely, value added recommendations.


8. Conduct research in an ethical and humane manner and assess the impact of the research findings on a range of relevant stakeholders.


9. Reflect on the skills developed and wider continuous professional development identified for yourself and the people management profession.


10. Write a reflective account of what has been learned during a research project, drawing appropriate conclusions and making appropriate organizational recommendations on the basis of research finding.

Skills for Your Professional Life (Transferable Skills)

In addition, this module will also contribute to your development of the following employability skills:

1. Written Communication.


2. Oral Communication.


3. Research Skills.


4. Critical Thinking.


5. Commercial Awareness.

This module will be delivered via:

• Workshops.
• Student led independent research.
• Students are encouraged to develop peer-learning groups to support the development of research skills and their projects.
• Students will also be appointed an academic supervisor.

Supervisory Meetings

Students can expect a minimum of four meetings with their supervisor. Students are expected to prepare sufficient material for discussion during supervisory meetings, and ideally to submit it to their supervisor in advance (see Dissertation Schedule). Make sure you leave each meeting with a clear idea of what to do next. Students are encouraged to meet as a group outside of the formal supervisory meetings. Membership of such peer groups has proven very useful in past years; providing benefits and resources beyond that of developing the dissertation.