Project proposal: Develop a well-structured research proposal that defines a clear research topic, aims, and methodology while demonstrating critical understanding of relevant theories and ethical considerations.

GLB7004-60C Research Project

Module Leader

Cohort

2025

Level

7

Assessment component(s)

Component 1- Project proposal including ethical approval (2000 words) (Submission via Turnitin in doc.; docx.; odt.; pdf formats only).

Component 2- Research Project (8000 words). (Submission via Turnitin in doc.; docx.; odt.; pdf formats only).

Individual/group

Individual

Assessment weighting(s)

Component 1 – 20%

Component 2 – 80%

(Both components must be passed to complete the Research Project)

Hand in date(s)

Ethics form is due Saturday, 29/11/2025

Component 1 (Proposal) “Approved Ethics form must be included as Appendix” - Monday 15/12/2025 by 23:5Gpm. Component 2 (Project) - Monday 02/03/2026 by 23:5Gpm

LO1 – Formulate a rationale for a researchable topic with appropriate research aims, objectives and research method(s)

LO2 – Critically situate the research proposal in relation to existing academic and industry-based literature and other relevant sources.

LO3 – Apply critical thinking skills to evaluate research findings, draw well-reasoned conclusions, and provide evidence-based recommendations that address global business problems and challenges.

LO4 – Produce a well-structured report that clearly communicates research objectives, methodologies, findings, and implications, adhering to academic standards of writing, referencing, and presentation.

Supervision involves regular meetings between you and your supervisor, which can be arranged based on your study mode and location (e.g., via Teams or scheduled discussions).

During supervision, you can ask questions, seek guidance, and discuss key issues. It is important to clarify how much feedback your supervisor can provide on your written work, as they may also be supervising other students.

Research Project “Lecturer”

The Lecturer’s role is to help you develop the skills to:

• Choose and justify your topic.
• Collect and analyse data.
• Prepare for Research Ethics Approval.
• Create a Dissertation Proposal outlining your research strategy and design.

Your Independent Study

Through research, writing, and presentations, you will explore your chosen subject deeply and create an original piece of work. The skills you develop may be relevant to your future job, and employers might find your work a reflection of your potential.

This module will enhance your independent study skills, so you are expected to take responsibility for your own learning.

The assessment project evaluates your understanding and ability to apply concepts to practical situations related to your chosen topic, demonstrating critical thinking and synthesizing academic knowledge with real-world insights

Component 1

Project proposal including ethical approval (20%, 2000 words).

Develop a well-structured research proposal that defines a clear research topic, aims, and methodology while demonstrating critical understanding of relevant theories and ethical considerations.

Instructions:

1. Topic Selection: Choose a specific, researchable topic within the global business landscape. Ensure the topic aligns with module objective. Discuss your topic idea with your supervisor to refine your focus.
2. Content Development:

Introduction: (400 words) Define your research problem, rationale, and significance in a global business context.

Literature Review: (600 words) Critically review relevant academic and industry-based literature, identifying gaps your research will address.

Research Aims and Objectives: (300 words) Clearly articulate the purpose and goals of your research.

Methodology:(500 words) Discuss your research design (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods). Specify data collection and analysis methods, including ethical considerations and limitations.

Timeline:(200 words) Include a detailed project timeline.

3. Engagement: Demonstrate a deep understanding of relevant theories and research methodologies. Use examples from previous case studies or existing research to justify your approach.

4. Quality: Follow a structured format with clear headings and subheadings. Adhere to academic writing standards, including proper reference. Proofread for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy.

5. Submission: Submit your proposal in Word format via Turnitin by the specified deadline. Save a backup copy to prevent data loss.

Marking Criteria:

• Topic Relevance: Clear definition and justification of the research topic.
• Literature Review: Depth of analysis and identification of research gaps.
• Methodology: Appropriateness and clarity of the research design.
• Academic Standards: Structure, coherence, and proper referencing.

Component 2

Research Project (80%, 8000 words).

Produce a comprehensive research project that addresses a specific global business issue, combining theoretical analysis with practical insights.

Instructions:

1. Topic Selection: Build on the approved research proposal. Refine the scope based on feedback and initial findings.
2. Content Development: An Abstract (200 words)

Introduction: (800 words) Recap the research problem, objectives, and significance.

Research Aims, Objectives, research questions, and Significance: (600 words) Outline measurable goals that guide your investigation and discuss the importance of the research project. Literature Review: (1200 words) Deepen the review, incorporating updated sources and theoretical frameworks.

Methodology: (1200 words) Provide a detailed explanation of your research methods. Justify the chosen approach and address ethical considerations.

• Detailed Methodology.
• Data Collection and Analysis.
• Ethical Consideration.

Findings and Analysis: (2000 words) Present data clearly using tables, graphs, or charts. Critically interpret results, linking them to your research objectives and literature review.

Discussion:(1400 words) Evaluate the implications of your findings in the global business context. Highlight contributions to academic and practical knowledge.

Conclusion and Recommendations: (600 words) Summaries of key findings and propose actionable recommendations.

Enhance Engagement: Use real-world examples and case studies to support your analysis. Integrate visuals to enhance understanding of data and findings.

3. Quality:

Follow a consistent format with headings, subheadings, and numbered sections.

Ensure all visual elements are high-quality and relevant. Maintain high standards of academic writing and referencing.

4. Submission: Submit your final project in Word format via Turnitin by the deadline. Backup your work on cloud storage or an external drive.

Descriptor

Detailed Descriptor

Position within band

Mark

Degree Classification

Exceptional

As for ‘outstanding’ but underpinned by originality and/or novel ideas in thinking and a strong critical appreciation of the topic. No improvement could reasonably be expected.

Upper

100

Distinction

Middle

95

Lower

90

Outstanding

Work that is typically characterised by evidence of the following:

• An outstanding level of knowledge and understanding of complex issues, key concepts and principles at the forefront of the discipline.
• Outstanding awareness of the subject and/or practice.
• Outstanding evidence of original, independent and critical thought
• A strong, well-structured argument that is convincing and well- supported by an outstanding range of sources and/or evidence.
• Pushes the boundaries of existing knowledge.
• Evidence of extensive and discriminating reading/use of source material, accurately used in support of the work.
• Clearly structured, robust and persuasive arguments, lucidly written, use of clear and accurate expression.

Middle

85

Lower

80

Excellent

Work that is typically characterised by evidence of the following:

• An excellent level of knowledge and understanding of complex issues, key concepts and principles at the forefront of the discipline.
• Excellent awareness of the subject and/or practice.

Upper

78

• A strong, well-structured argument that is convincing and well- supported by a wide range of sources and/or evidence.
• Explores the boundaries of existing knowledge.
• Evidence of extensive and discriminating reading and use of relevant sourced materials, accurately used in support of the work.
• Clearly structured, robust, and persuasive arguments; lucidly written/articulated, use of clear and accurate expression.

Middle

75

Lower

72

Good/Very Good

Work that is typically characterised by evidence of the following:

• A very good level of knowledge and understanding of key concepts and principles.
• A very good awareness of the subject and/or practice.
• Able to describe and use a range of major concepts, theories and methodologies in a very good level of detail.
• Strong arguments which offer a good analysis of key issues.
• Use of a broad/wide range of sources and/or evidence to support work.
• Indicative of minor areas for improvement and contains some minor errors.
• Clearly structured, robust, and persuasive arguments; lucidly written, uses clear and accurate expression.

Upper

68

Merit

Middle

65

Lower

62

Reasonable

Work that is typically characterised by evidence of the following:

• A reasonable level of knowledge and understanding of key concepts and principles.
• Sufficient awareness of the subject and/or practice.
• Able to describe and use a range of major concepts, theories and methodologies.
• Some critical judgment was offered.
• Arguments offer some analysis of key issues, but they may lack coherence and/or supporting evidence.
• Evidence of familiarity with key sources and/or evidence but may contain questionable interpretation of critical materials.
• May contain some errors and/or areas for improvement.
• Organisation and clarity of writing are sufficient standards for the reader to engage easily.
• Needs some improvements in one or more areas.

Upper

58

Pass

Middle

55

Lower

52

Marginal fail (Some reasonable elements but needs improvements

Unsatisfactory work that is typically characterised by evidence of the following:

• A limited level of knowledge and understanding of a restricted range of issues. Poorly conceived and poorly directed to the assessment task.

Upper

4