1. Problem solve through the application of synthetic and analytic logical reasoning
2. Conduct independent enquiry, critical evaluation and interpretation, utilising peer reviewed journals
3. Demonstrate the ability to use general, academic, and interdisciplinary databases to identify key sources, scholarly and peer reviewed publications
4. Self-assess and reflect, working with personal tutors and drawing on the content of the individual learning log.
5. Understand the relationship between argument and evidence.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Cognitive skills are developed across first and second term modules and focus particularly on problem solving and logical reasoning. Independent enquiry, critical evaluation and interpretation, abstraction and assimilation are key elements in all modules. Self-assessment and reflection are developed by formative feedback particularly on tutorial presentations.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of cognitive skills, both summative and formative, occurs in the form of course assignments, oral presentations, project work and examinations.

1. Construct arguments and exercise problem solving skills;
2. Apply critical reasoning and evaluate case studies against core theories.
3. Synthesise information/data from a variety of sources including from databases, books, journal articles and the internet;
4. Prepare and communicate ideas in both written and presentational forms;
5. Work both independently and in groups;
6. Organise and time manage as well as problem solve and analyse critically;
7. Comprehend and use of relevant technologies

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Transferable skills development permeates the teaching and learning on the graduate diploma programme. Successful completion of coursework requires students to draw upon a range of sources, select and assimilate relevant information and to complete tasks within deadlines. ICT skills are consolidated throughout the course as an aid to report writing, visual presentation, literature searching and data handling. Although not formally assessed, qualities such as self-reliance, good time management and the ability to undertake independent study are fostered and encouraged throughout the course.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of coursework requires students to use a range of media (e.g. critiques of journal articles, essays, PowerPoint or similar presentations, case studies) to demonstrate their learning.

1. Know the major approaches to empirical enquiry in the social sciences, understand the broad methodologies and when (and how) to use specific research methods, or a combination of methods, know how to evaluate these and how to manage their limitations
2. Appreciate the different forms of empirical enquiry, the development of arguments and critical exploration; the concept of falsifiability; the empirical and rational bases of research; qualitative and quantitative methods; primary and secondary sources of evidence;
3. Understand the ways in which individuals, organisations and communities frame their cultural context and the impact of this on the conduct of business across different regions and cultures;
4. Identify, understand, critically analyse and help find and evaluate solutions to challenges in the conduct of research in the social sciences

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Knowledge-based subject-specific learning and teaching is provided through lectures, seminars, tutorials, group-work, directed reading, independent learning activities and computer-based learning materials.

Students’ knowledge and understanding will be assessed through a combination of unseen examinations, formal essays, class tests, individual and group projects, as well as individual and group oral presentations. Tutor moderated peer-informed assessment will contribute to the assessment of group work components

Methods of Assessment

Both summative and formative assessment is used throughout all modules.

Summative assessment takes a variety of forms. In several modules formal examinations are used to gauge and assess understanding and the acquisition of knowledge. Work required for summative assessment (whether in the form of examinations, individual essays, individual or group presentations) will be judged against the Level 3 criteria in the University’s published conceptual equivalents scale.

Formative assessment will take three main forms; (i) weekly assignments in most of the modules aimed at promoting subject-specific understanding, logic, accurate written and (where required) graphical representation of information, and good presentation (ii) frequent and regular discussion of key theories and academic readings to develop understanding, logical argument and critical assessment and (iii) timely feedback on the content and performance of student presentations

Investigate, critically assess and present complex data and information sources as they relate to research in the social sciences

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars, tutorials

Methods of Assessment

Examination, literature review, research proposal, essay/report, recorded presentation (individual and group)