Research Investigation and Methodologies for Higher Education Programme

Unit Abstract

Aim

To develop learners’ skills of independent enquiry and critical analysis by undertaking a sustained research investigation of direct relevance to their Higher Education programme and professional development.

Unit abstract

This unit is designed to allow learners to become confident in the use of research techniques and methods. It addresses the elements that make up formal research, including the proposal, a variety of methodologies, action planning, carrying out the research itself and presenting the findings. To complete the unit satisfactorily, learners must understand the theory that underpins formal research.

The research itself is dependent on learners, the context of their area of learning, their focus of interest and the anticipated outcomes. The unit draws together a range of other areas of content within the programme of study to form a holistic piece of work that makes a positive contribution to learners’ area of interest. Learners should seek approval from their tutors before starting the study.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:

1. Understand how to formulate a research specification
2. Be able to implement the research project within agreed procedures and to specification
3. Be able to evaluate the research outcomes
4. Be able to present the research outcomes

Unit Aims:
To develop learners’ skills of independent enquiry and critical analysis by undertaking a sustained research investigation of direct relevance to their Higher Education programme and professional development.

Purpose of this assignment:
Researched information is essential to the success of a hospitality, travel and tourism business. This assignment has the purpose of enabling learners to build on existing skills and enable them to produce professional, validated research report. 

Task 1-  Research proposal
Scenario :
You are doing a consultancy project with Hospitality organisation of your choice. You can choose from (Hotels, motels, pubs, bars, nightclubs, restaurants/catering business and operations, spas,Contract services and onsite /commercial food services, independent /specialist travel agent & tour operators, Casinos, Resorts, Airlines, Cruise lines, Event planning &management businesses, Private clubs- health clubs, Country clubs, golf clubs which extend full services, Theme parks, Attractions and popup restaurant.

In this project you will be required to find a problem in the business, research & focus on that problem to find solution to improve business’s performance. You have been told that before you get permission to conduct the research you must produce a Research proposal (to start with) for the owners of your selected organisation, to include the following :
(a) Clear aim for your research. (The aim needs to be a concise statement of intent).
(b) A set of objectives (SMART) that enable you to achieve your aim.
(c) Factors that contribute to the process of research project selection (Rationale).
(d) A critical review of key references.
(e) An appropriate plan and procedures (purpose, process and methods used for the topic selected) for the chosen research specification.

Assessment Criteria coverage 
First Draft submission in week 3: You will be addressing following aspects (No word limit)
Research topic
Write a clear aim for your research. 
Write a set of objectives that enable you to achieve your aim.
Second Draft submission in week 7
Research proposal plan (Please use the template on STP moodle) along with a Gantt chart.
Literature Review