This module is designed to introduce students to the concepts of business research methods. The module focuses on the research process in business and management in general and entrepreneurship and small business in particular. The module addresses philosophical issues underlying management research. It focuses on the important issues of selection of an appropriate research methods and judge the quality and value of research outcomes. It is concerned with the development of an in-depth understanding and application of the variety of research methods, both in the quantitative and qualitative research designs. The course is structured to cover five broad and interrelated issues: a) nature of research, research design and planning; b) quantitative research design and data collection; c) qualitative research design and data collection; d) data interpretation and analysis; and e) writing up research proposal and presentation of results. The module helps the student to critically examine issues of the selection of an appropriate research method and statistical packages to apply for a study of a range of entrepreneurship and business courses.

The course seeks to enable students to acquire a critical understanding of the research methods that are used to study different aspects of business environment. The module aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies to carry out a sound academic research project supported by critical understanding of the use value of research methods and techniques.