MCF8215 Research Methods

This module seeks to establish the link between the real-world problems and Management literature. It further explores the role of literature review in converting real problems into research questions. Applied research methodologies, deductive and inductive research methodologies their use and limitations. The nature and sources of business data. Using qualitative research methods to solve business problems, including action research, grounded theory, ethnography and their limitations. Techniques of qualitative research including interviews, observations, interpretation and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data. Using quantitative research methods in business and management and limitations. Techniques of quantitative research methods including questionnaire, sampling methods, descriptive and inferential statistics including contingency tables and tests of independence. Presentation and analysis of quantitative data. Criteria for evaluation of alternative research methods. Writing research projects and reporting research findings.

Course objectives
This course will enable students to;

• Explain the nature of ICT / management research. 
• Formulate and clarify appropriate research topics.
• Describe Qualitative research methods, questionnaire design, sample size, sampling methods.
• Explain underlying principles of collecting, classifying, analyzing and interpreting numerical facts or data. 
• Analyse quantitative data, descriptive and inferential statistics including contingency tables, chi-square test of    independence by.

Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

• Apply, compare and examine the different research methodologies as used in Forensic research. 
• Demonstrate a clear understanding of the type and source of business data handling techniques.
• Analyse quantitative and qualitative business / management data and arrive at appropriate conclusions by using modern statistical tools and packages.