The research project component of the degree presents the students with the challenge of research, examining alternative methodologies to the econometrics training received throughout the year as well as the fundamentals of literature reviews.
The rationale underlying the requirement of a research component is to require the student or groups of students to gain a deeper understanding of a subject area of his/her/their own choice. The deeper understanding may be achieved by, for example through an empirical investigation, a simulation exercise, a case study, in-depth literature survey or company/industry analysis.
Knowledge and its application to information is essential for the management process. The research process requires a comprehensive understanding of research methodologies in order to be able to transform, test, or generate theoretical propositions.
It is understood that students will not necessarily have had previous opportunities to develop the skills and competencies relevant to the undertaking of a research project at degree level. The research project component of this course seeks to address this issue.
General Issues in Methodology
Sources of knowledge and knowledge generation, assumptions relating to the nature of economics and financial reality, the role of theory, research traditions in Economics and Finance, research methods in Economics and Finance.
Literature Review and Analysis
Rational for literature reviews, the literature search, literature review approaches, functions and typologies, issues in reading, presentation and writing skills.
Empirical Research Methods
1) Quantitative Analysis. The econometric software will be used in laboratory sessions to explore a range of topics in Economics and Finance. Significant features would incorporate teasing through key stages of the analytical process, planning, data collection, data analysis: descriptive and inferential, reporting results. The principal focus would be primarily on statistical techniques as opposed statistical theory.
2) Survey Method. Issues relating to survey method, including the design of questionnaires in relation to content, format and response categories. Survey schedule, population identification, construction of sample, questionnaire design and coding.
3) Case Study Method. Types of case studies in Economics and Finance. Interpretive and Positive methodological positions. Pattern and deductive models. Generalising from case studies. Evidence and its assessment. Pattern identification. Weaknesses and problems in case study research.
Use will be made of formal lectures, tutorials and statistical laboratory sessions as appropriate. However, there will be an emphasis upon interactive learning via workshops and discussion groups. There may be presentations on the various research methods and guest lecturers will be invited to present their research work and to lead the discussions on the choice of methodology adopted. In addition students will have a number of computer laboratory sessions on the use of various software packages. While formal lectures and tutorial sessions will be utilised, there will be an emphasis upon self study and problem based learning. In addition students will have a several computer laboratory sessions on the use of the various software packages that can be utilised for research purposes
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |