Module Code: H8CPR
Long Title Capstone Project
Title Capstone Project
Module Level: LEVEL 8
EQF Level: 6
EHEA Level: First Cycle
Credits: 10
Module Coordinator: Danielle Mc cartan-Quinn
Module Author: COLIN WHITSTON
Departments: School of Business
Specifications of the qualifications and experience required of staff  
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Understand how to conduct practical research projects and apply both quantitative and qualitative analytic techniques to real world problems.
LO2 Demonstrate an ability to design, prepare and present a research dissertation.
LO3 Apply the appropriate quantitative or qualitative analytical tools in a methodologically correct, accurate and rigorous manner to analyse data.
LO4 Critically evaluate and interpret results of gathered information and data, deriving implications based on the data selection and evaluation.
LO5 Identify and Investigate appropriate research outputs necessary to improve decision making in business.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is required before enrolment on this module. While the prior learning is expressed as named NCI module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
No recommendations listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Entry requirements

All Students must successfully pass the Capstone Project Preparation Module.  
 

Module Content & Assessment

Indicative Content
Using the Proposal as a dissertation platform –
Using proposal feedback to develop the dissertation. How to expand on the literature review and methods. Targeting the readings and subject information in source material. Drafting a structure and plan for the dissertation. How to approach the writing of the dissertation.
Qualitative Methodologies (recap)
Developing an understanding of qualitative research. How do we choose the correct qualitative instrument? Creating an understanding of interviews, observations, ethnographic studies and the information they provide to a research project. Understanding sampling techniques in qualitative research. Designing an interview schedule.
Quantitative Methodologies (recap)
Developing an understanding of quantitative research. Examining a subject empirically. Forms of data production – using surveys to gather a data set. Testing for reliability and validity within your instrument. Understanding sampling techniques in quantitative research. Using established survey techniques.
Instrument Design and implementation
Who will be sampled and thinking about access. Using appropriate contact methods. Designing and structuring the instrument. Thinking about timeframes.
Qualitative Analytic techniques
Developing qualitative interpretations with a thematic approach. Develop an understanding of how to code interviews (e.g. NVivo).
Quantitative Analytic techniques
Using statistical tools to analyse data sets (SPSS). Using secondary data sets and recognising limitations. Discussing the findings and concluding the work – How to situate the findings of research into the broader field. Structuring the conclusion and ‘going out with a bang’. Thinking about future research and recommendations for the study and the field of interest.
Feedback
Written and face-to-face feedback session held throughout the semester to guide the development of the dissertation.
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Full Time

Coursework
Assessment Type: Continuous Assessment % of total: 100
Assessment Date: n/a Outcome addressed: 1,2,3,4,5
Non-Marked: No
Assessment Description:
Candidates are required to produce a minor dissertation of approximately 10,000 words
No End of Module Assessment
No Workplace Assessment
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

NCIRL reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Module Target Workload Hours 0 Hours
Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Workload Description Hours Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecture Classroom and demonstrations 36 Per Semester 3.00
Directed Learning Directed e-learning 36 Per Semester 3.00
Independent Learning Independent learning 166 Per Semester 13.83
Total Weekly Contact Hours 6.00
 

Module Resources

Recommended Book Resources
  • Hart, C. (2018), oing a Literature Review: Releasing the research imagination London, 2nd Edition. Sage Publications, California.
  • O’Leary, Z. (2017), The Essential Guide to Doing Your Research Project, 3rd Edition. Sage Publications.
  • Punch, K. (2014), Introduction to Social Research: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches, 3rd Edition. Sage Publications.
  • Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill. (2019), Research Methods for Business Students, 8th Edition. Pearson Education Limited, Harlow.
  • Wisker, G. (2018), The Undergraduate Research Handbook, 2nd Edition. Red Globe Press.
  • Creswell, J.W. Creswell, J.D. (2017), Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches, Sage Publications.
Supplementary Book Resources
  • Barnet, Sylvan; Bedau, Hugo; Barnet, Sylvan. (2019), Current issues and enduring questions: a guide to critical thinking and argument, with readings, 12th Edition. Bedford/St. Martins.
  • Mills, C.W. (1978), The Sociological Imagination, Oxford University Press.
This module does not have any article/paper resources
This module does not have any other resources
Discussion Note: