HR9777 - Management Investigation

If you study the module on a part-time programme, you will be supported by a series of sessions based around formal input, workshop activities, case discussions and practical exercises on research methods and choosing a research topic. If you study on a distance learning programme you will be supported by online activities on an e- learning platform supported by resources and materials such as podcasts and videos.
You will discuss your progress with an appointed personal supervisor on a regular basis throughout the year and/or with other students as part of an action learning set. Independent Learning is central to this module. In independent learning you will identify and pursue areas of interest and gain deeper or broader knowledge of the subject area, through a range of learning activities that might include, reading, reflection, research etc. The teaching and learning strategy also involves directed learning utilized to meet module learning outcomes. Directed learning will engage you in further research to support and enhance learning in the sessions. You will be given the opportunity to demonstrate this knowledge in the discussions, working groups and assignment.
Critical reflection on knowledge, experience and practice underpins the learning and teaching process along with the explicit development of competence.The module is supported by a teaching and learning plan which outlines the process, and frameworks for directed and independent learning and reading. The necessity of directed work and independent reading are critical dimensions of the module, thus developing you as an independent learner.

A module dedicated e-learning portal will be available to you which will provide information on aspects of the module including teaching materials, teaching and learning plan and assessment brief and guidance.
You will be provided with the contact details of key module personnel within the module handbook and on the e-learning portal. The module leader will also provide guidance on the content of each module.
You will have a dedicated personal supervisor who will guide you through the Management Investigation providing a series of supervisor meetings where the your work will be discussed, and support and advice given.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

You will be expected to:

Knowledge & Understanding:
1) Demonstrate your critical understanding of how organisations work

2) Identify an organisational problem or issue and decide on a suitable methodology for investigation.


Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3) Critically analyse the problem/issue within the organisational context

4) Apply theory to a practical problem / issue and evaluate / assess a range of possible options

5) Make recommendations for change and improvement via presentation and management report

A 2000 word Project Proposal (MLO 2, 3, 4)A 10000 word project report (MLO1,2 3, 4 &5)Formative assessment will take place through group work, assignment discussion and reflection, discussion board activity on the e-learning portal, case study activity, and theory/practice related discussions.
Criteria will be provided to enable you to understand what is expected of you and how you will be assessed on your performance. You are required to demonstrate self-reflection and reflective practice where appropriate.

Feedback on your summative performance in this module will be provided as follows: Your assessment will be returned to you with annotated comments directly related to the assessment task. You will also be provided with a written comment on actions to be taken to improve performance in assessment overall.
Formative feedback will be provided throughout the module, particularly in relation to Supervision sessions. You should, however be aware that formative feedback can, and will, occur in any communication with an academic tutor.

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This module will enable you to develop your management knowledge, skills and personal effectiveness within the work environment through the critical analysis of a work based problem or issue and the identification of realistic recommendations for improvement / implementation as appropriate. You will critically reflect on 'real world' practices, with a view to using these reflections in implementing appropriate change.