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Minor Thesis (Research Methods)

Unit Code: HEI884




Duration

Contact Hours

Campus

Prerequisite

Corequisite

One Teaching Period

36 hours

Hawthorn

All Stage One and Two core units

Nil

Credit Points: 12.5 Credit Points

Related Course/s:

A unit of study  in the Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation program.

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Aims & Objectives:


This unit will introduce the concept of entrepreneurship research and the identification of a distinct research problem in the field of entrepreneurship. It continues from the MEI and integrates all Stage 1 and Stage 2 units. The unit forms part of the MEI (Hons), applying innovative solutions. This unit provides a set of research methodology seminar topics relevant to new researchers wishing to undertake HEI 885/886/887 – Minor Thesis.
On completion of this unit students should be able to:
  • be familiar with a range of research approaches applicable in the field of entrepreneurship research and problem-solving
  • develop the ability to formulate research questions and to select an appropriate methodology for the chosen research task
  • understand the philosophical and theoretical assumptions underlying different research methods and approaches
  • develop skills to write and structure a minor thesis.

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Teaching Methods:

Classroom, and online delivery, via a combination of presentations, discussions, case studies, practical activities and, where appropriate, experiential activities. Incorporating ongoing innovative entrepreneurship teaching pedagogies.
Research Methodology Seminar: A variety of learning methods will be employed including lecture discussions, seminars, experiential and practical learning exercises.

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Assessment:

Presentation, written assignments and 3000-word Research Proposal providing a blueprint for the HEI 885/886/887 Minor Thesis phase.

HEI 884 is a prerequisite for HEI 885/886/887 Minor Thesis but may also be taken as a stand alone elective.

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Generic Skills Outcomes:

Swinburne University of Technology works to produce higher education graduates who are capable in their chosen profession. Learners bring to Swinburne University of Technology a diverse wealth of experiences and graduate with individual understandings, abilities and attitudes.

Within this context it is the intent of unit HEI884 Research Methods that students develop the following key generic skills:
  • Research skills
  • Analysis skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Communication skills
  • Ability to tackle unfamiliar problems
  • Ability to work independently

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Content:

  • Acquiring an understanding of skills required to undertake a professional investigation that involves a significant level of research
  • Formulating and articulating the research question and the relationship of the research question to appropriate methodologies
  • Qualitative and quantitative methodologies
  • Research Writing
  • Aspects of specialist methodologies

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Textbooks:

A general entry level research method text (e.g. Leedy, PD & Ormrod, JE 2008, Practical Research: Planning and Design, 8th ed., Merrill/Prentice Hall.)

Additional journal articles and book chapters are provided as readings. References to websites and books are also provided.

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References:

A wide range of reference sources including online accessible resources is provided in the subject outline.

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