Undergraduate, Postgraduate - UnitACX4000 - Research methods

This unit entry is for students who completed this unit in 2015 only. For students planning to study the unit, please refer to the unit indexes in the the current edition of the Handbook. If you have any queries contact the managing faculty for your course or area of study.

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6 points, SCA Band 3, 0.125 EFTSL

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Level	Undergraduate, Postgraduate
Faculty	Faculty of Business and Economics
Organisational Unit	Department of Accounting
Offered	Caulfield First semester 2015 (Day)

Synopsis

Introduction to a broad range of research methodology and testing procedures used in accounting. The primary focus is on the undertaking of research. This unit comprises an analysis of the science of research, an examination of the key elements of research in accounting, data issues, ethical issues, hypothesis development, causal models, the use of parametric and non-parametric statistical tests, survey-based research and general research methodology. The unit also entails preparation of a research proposal in an area of accounting.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

explain the major steps in the development of a research project in accounting
illustrate the key strengths and weaknesses in accounting research designs and methods
apply qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques and interpret the output
prepare a research proposal in accounting incorporating a literature review related to a selected topic in accounting, testable hypotheses, appropriate design to test the hypotheses and data requirements
apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Workload requirements

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. The unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Vic Naiker

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0181, 0171, 4416 or 0503 to undertake this unit.

Prohibitions

AFX4000