module specification

This module requires students to complete a substantial piece of independent research on a topic of their choice, centred round an area of interest within the context of their discipline. It offers students the opportunity to pursue a deeper understanding in the topical area of their choice. In this module students are assessed by two pieces of coursework, dissertation proposal and the dissertation itself. A small scale of primary research, be it quantitative or qualitative in nature, is required. 

The principle aim of the module is to prepare students for completion of a substantial piece of independent research. The module aims are:

• To undertake a detailed investigation of one selected area or topic, aligned with their degree title, within leisure, tourism or related industries
• To develop thorough analysis and synthesis of theory, policy and practice in relation to the chosen topic
• To demonstrate application of knowledge and skills research and enquiry methods developed through the module
• To provide an opportunity for critical reflection of the research topic within the wider business, management and social science context
• To provide an opportunity for critical self-reflection of learning, studying and research skills and knowledge.

It also aims to develop students’ skills, in particular:
• Academic Reading 
• Researching
• Analysing Data
• Application of Knowledge and Presenting Data
• Academic Writing/literacy
• Critical Thinking and Writing
• Digital literacy and IT skills
• Numeracy/quantitative

1. The role and function of leisure and tourism research
2. Different research philosophies and approaches
3. Secondary research, literature searching and data retrieval: the use of computerised catalogues, abstracts and indexes, databases, World Wide Web
4. Awareness of the range of quantitative research methodologies including questionnaire design, survey research, data analysis and relevant statistical techniques
5. Awareness of the range of qualitative research methodologies including semi-structured and unstructured interviews, focus groups and observation
6. Developing a dissertation

Students shall receive taught instruction for the first ten teaching weeks of the academic year. During this period students shall receive instruction in leisure and tourism research methods through a series often, 1 hour lectures followed by a 1 hour seminar.

This classroom contact will enable students to develop a research proposal for their dissertation. Feedback on this proposal initiates a process of seminar tutor and supervisor support for the dissertation itself.

Support continues via the allocation of supervisors who provide an individually based mode of support. Students are encouraged to meet with their supervisor on at least one occasion. Supervision hours are limited and this will be defined by the module leader.

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

• Complete a detailed investigation of one area or topic, aligned with their degree title, within leisure and tourism; and related industries
• Demonstrate thorough analysis and synthesis of theory, policy and practice in relation to the chosen topic
• Develop a research proposal, drawing upon appropriate research methods in leisure and tourism
• Demonstrate application of knowledge and skills developed through the Research and Enquiry Methods module
• Demonstrate critical reflection of the research topic within the wider business, management and social science context
• Undertake self-reflection of learning, studying and research skills and knowledge

The first component of assessment is the dissertation proposal in which students identify a research issue or problem. Using their knowledge of research methods, developed in the early part of the module, students elaborate a research design to address the research issue or problem. The dissertation is the culmination of undergraduate student learning, and where students have the opportunity to demonstrate their attainment of graduate attributes, especially their progress as independent learners.

Collis, J. and Hussey, R. 2009. Business Research: a practical guide for undergraduate and postgraduate students.  3rd ed. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.

Creswell, J.W. 2009. Research Design: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. 3rd ed. London: Sage.

Denscombe, M.  2010. The Good Research Guide: for small-scale social research projects. 4th ed. Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill/Open University Press. 

Finn, M. Elliott-White, M. and Walton, M. 2000. Tourism and Leisure Research Methods: : data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Harlow: Longman.

Saunders, M., Lewis, P. and Thornhill, A. 2007. Research Methods for Business Students. 4th ed. Harlow: Pearson Education.

Veal, A.J. 2006. ResearchMethods for Leisure and Tourism: a practical guide. 3rd ed. Harlow: Pearson Education.