MSc Management and Information Systems: Change and Development (Distance Learning)

This module enables students to identify, plan and carry out a dissertation – and subsequent research – on a topic in information systems / management and development, in a developing or transitional country or international organizational context, and to acquire the competence to interpret and criticize the work of other researchers.

The module is structured around the various components of the research process, beginning with foundation concepts, followed by a deep dive into planning and designing information systems / management research. A range of different research strategies are reviewed, followed by introductions to the use of literature and secondary data, and a range of data collection methods. The module concludes with data analysis techniques – both quantitative and qualitative – that are commonly used in information systems / management research.

This module helps students’ employability through developing a robust understanding of Information Systems research. A range of research strategies, methods methodologies and analytical processes will immediately be useful in students’ professional practice.

Student will develop requisite skills to commission and design robust research approaches, and be able to solve real-life researchable problems thereby strengthening their professional practice.

The module will support continuous development of the following transferable skills:

• Analytical skills that are informed by theory and demonstrated in practice.
• Research competencies, including the rigorous engagement with quality evidence.
• Written and oral communication skills through the formative and summative assessment activities.
• Knowledge, intellectual- and practical- skills to engage in IS research and practice.

Syllabus (indicative curriculum content):

1. Introduction to research
2. Planning and conducting research
3. Designing research
4. Using literature and secondary data
5. Data collection methods 1: questionnaires and interviews
6. Data collection methods 2: observation, diaries and repertory grid
7. Analysing quantitative data
8. Analysing qualitative data

Students work through self-directed study materials which incorporate text, readings, and self-assessed activities and exercises.  They contribute to an online tutorial discussion for each unit of the overall course unit.  They utilise an e-learning space to complete learning evaluation tests, and access further guidance and topic-relevant materials.

KU1 explain the nature and scope of management and information systems research in an international context.

IS1 explain the main methodological approaches to management and information systems research in an international context
IS2 explain the principal research methods of data collection and analysis used in management and information systems research in an international context
IS3 interpret, evaluate and critique the research methods of others

PS1 identify, plan and organise a management or information systems research project, including research relevant to a Masters dissertation
PS2 utilise the main methodological approaches and principal research methods appropriate to management and information systems research in an international context
PS3 complete a Masters dissertation proposal

Enhancement of Digital Literacy: This module supports the development of student’s digital skills through navigation of virtual learning environments and engagement with a range of digital media including library resources, videos and podcasts. The interactive pedagogy promotes skill development of online collaborative learning tools and students also develop competence in using digital presentation- and analysis- tools.

In accordance with the JISC framework, student will be supported in developing the following digital capabilities: Digital Proficiency and Productivity, Information, Data and Media Literacy, Digital Learning, Digital Communication, Collaboration and Participation.

Formative Assessment Task:

Online Quizzes (Multiple Choice): Automatically graded. Multiple attempts allowed. Notes about answers and references to relevant unit texts.  Evaluates understanding of key concepts: KU1, IS1, IS2, IS3, PS1, PS2, PS3

Summative Assessment Tasks:

Tutorial questions (10%) appear in each unit (x8). As a fully online, distance learning module, student engagement takes the form of constructive, respectful, critical discourse through weekly discussions of these questions. Quality of engagement is assessed based on:

1. Quality of argument
2. Quality of research and evidence
3. Engagement with module concepts
    

Oral engagement during online group meetings (1.5hrs x 2)

Written engagement typically c.200 (±20%) words (x 6)

In order to receive marks for a Unit, students must engage with tutorial discussions within seven days of the dates the discussions are launched (later submissions do not contribute to constructive critical discourse)

All Units must include at least two synchronous online tutorial discussions.  In order to receive any marks for engagement, students must contribute to a minimum of four tutorial discussions (written contributions), at least one of which must be a synchronous tutorial discussion (oral contributions)(see also Section 9).

In order to obtain 50% of the oral engagement marks available for the unit a student must engage with a minimum of four tutorials.

In order to obtain 100% of the oral engagement marks available for the unit, a student must engage with a minimum of six tutorials.

According to a rota, each student is required either to introduce a topic and open the tutorial discussion, or to summarise the key learning points at the end of a topic.

One small Group Video Presentation (30%)

Small groups of 2 to 3 students will present a structured, critical analysis of one research strategy (10 min max)

Length: 1,000 words

One written report (60%)

A dissertation proposal is prepared

Length: 2,000 words.

Summative Assessment Tasks:

Online Tutorials: Feedback provided by tutor and by other students throughout course unit and within 1-2 days of submission.

Group Presentation: Feedback provided by tutor/examiner comments following submission in Week 5

Written Report: Feedback provided by tutor/examiner comments following submission at the end of course unit.

Saunders, M., P. Lewis and A. Thornhill (2023) Research methods for business students, Harlow, UK: Pearson (9th edition)

Contact Hours and Notional Hours of Learning

10 hours Tutorials
100 hours Self-study via directed learning materials
40 hours Assessment preparation
Total of 150 Notional hours of Learning

Statement to Support Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Study of IS Research Methods will equip students with critical awareness of equality, diversity and inclusion through consideration of the variety and range of source texts and active inclusion of diverse voices, perspectives and current debates about information systems research and practice, including the decolonisation debate. The course also actively engages with questions of differences in representations, values, culture and perspectives between developed and developing country contexts.

Students are regularly applying concepts – during formative activities and summative assessment – from their own professional context, drawing on their personal culture, experiences and background thereby significantly enabling inclusivity. Respectful critical discourse enables an environment that is conducive to cultivate appreciation of diversity and the value of inclusivity.

Flexibility is built into the teaching and learning process thereby enhancing inclusivity – through providing materials online, at the start of the module, in accessible formats – and enabling a range of routes for students to engage (synchronous and asynchronous), encouraging students to share their own knowledge and reflections on relevant topics.

If a course participant identifies concern or discomfort about the oral contribution element of the assessment, and the course leader deems the concern/discomfort to be caused by a potentially valid hidden anxiety/disability, an exception to the oral contribution requirement will be arranged.

Information
MGDI Programmes on which course unit is offered:
MSc Management and Information Systems: Change and Development (via Distance Learning)