MSc Human Resource Management (International Development) / Course details

Module Overview

Introduction to HR Research

Introduction to Library Resources

Introduction to My Learning Essentials

Academic Writing

Reference Management Software

Conducting a Literature Review

Searching Academic Literature : Tools/Approaches

Critical Reading and Writing (Developing Arguments)

Working with Theories and Frameworks

Academic Referencing

Academic Integrity

Writing a Dissertation Proposal

Choosing a Dissertation Topic

Identifying Research Problem/Gap

Developing Research Questions/Objectives

Ethics in HR Research

Three research approaches: qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods

Data Collection

Data Analysis and Discussion

The teaching and learning methods are designed to balance more formal lecture-based inputs with opportunities for the students to engage with the subject area in a participative and applied manner.  A variety of teaching and learning methods will be used. These are likely to include formal lectures and group-based tutorials. 

 The content of this module will be delivered at strategically located points throughout Semester One and Semester Two. As an indication, the introduction to the module, inputs on conducting research using literature, and the assessment of the literature-based essay will take place in Semester One.  In Semester Two, there be lectures, seminars and tutorials on the subject of research methods relating to HRM in organisational contexts, and students will be required to submit their dissertation proposals. 

1. Define and critically explore literature on a specified subject using paper-based library stock, electronic databases, electronic journals and other web-based sources of data, such as government policies and reports.

2. Through the presentation of a dissertation research proposal, 

- demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of key research terms and methodologies;

- show their ability to construct a well-designed and realistic research plan for gathering primary data in an organisational setting;

-  explain the importance of ethics to the work of researchers.

1. Formulate a set of clearly stated research aims, research objectives, and research questions and/or hypotheses; 

2. Construct and present in writing a critically-focused and concisely written literature review together with an associated bibliography using standard conventions for citing academic literature; 

3. Through the construction of a dissertation proposal, demonstrate their ability to engage in critical self-reflection when undertaking research-based activities.

Work critically in an applied setting in order to design, operationalise and present the findings of an organisationally based research-based project on human resource management

During this course unit, students will be encouraged to develop:

• their ability to review and analyse critically contrasting information.
• their self management skills including their ability to manage time effectively.
• skills which they need to articulate clearly their point of view particularly in response to questioning.
• willingness to question and develop their understanding, perspectives and values in response to listening to others.
• the ability to identify key contextual variables which affect their behaviour and the behaviour of others.
• the ability to engage in critical thinking, reflection, and self-awareness.
• responsibility for their own learning.

 Feedback is provided in writing, approximately 14 days after submission of each assignment.

Anderson, V. (2013) Research Methods in Human Resource Management: investigating a business issue (3rd edition). London: CIPD

Bell, J. (2018) Doing Your Research Project: A Guide for First-Time Researchers in Education, Health and Social Science (7^th edition). Maidenhead, England: Open University Press

Davies, M (2007) Doing a Successful Research Project: Using Qualitative or Quantitative
Methods. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan

Gill J. and Johnson, P. (2011) Research Methods for Managers (4th edition). London: Paul Chapman

Horn, R. (2012) Researching and Writing Dissertations: A Complete Guide for Business and
Management Students (2^nd edition). London: CIPD

Robson, C. and McCartan (2016) Real World Research (4^th edition). Chichester: Wiley

Saunders, M., Lewis, P. and Thornhill, A. (2019) Research Methods for Business Students (8th edition). Harlow: Pearson

Yin, R. (2018) Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods (6^th edition). London: Sage Publications