This module enables you to develop work-based solutions to real-world problems through a reflective learning approach. Through discrete, identifiable work-related activities focused on enhancing organisational knowledge and innovation, you develop personal and professional knowledge through a process of reflection, critical thinking and action. The module enables you to demonstrate an autonomous approach to professional learning and development within a work-based context to enhance your employability.

This module develops your awareness and understanding of the factors that impact research design for business and management students. You explore the ethical principles underpinning business research, research methodologies, data type, collection and analysis, research methods and how to present a research proposal and dissertation.

Using a range of self-diagnostic tools to evaluate your personal strengths and areas for development, you develop a strong sense of awareness of your own skills and values and are introduced to a range of alternative debates on individual, group, leader and organisational behaviour. The skills developed will help your ability to perform effectively over time, with an awareness of differing cultural contexts and operating environments.

You will integrate your learning and development and synthesise knowledge and understanding of theory and practice through its application to organisational issues, which are demonstrably concerned with development within the organisation. You are supported throughout the process by a supervising tutor who will monitor progress and ensure that you are appraised of your on-going performance. Usually the dissertation should be completed within one year.

You develop a critical understanding of the international business environment, concentrating particularly on the impact of cultural differences on individuals and organisations, and the effects of developments in the global economy. Teaching on the module is divided into two parts. The cultural aspects look at topics such as the nature of culture and its implications for management, communication, conflict and negotiation. The economics part develops the tools needed to analyse some of the principal issues facing business in the global economy, for example, international trade, economic development and growth, shifts in world economic activity and the effects of policies on the environment.

You develop a systematic understanding of the nature of organisations and how they function and a critical awareness of the current challenges facing contemporary organisations. You are encouraged to critically reflect on the leadership skills and values required to better support organisations through the difficult challenges they may encounter.

This module examines the principles and practice of managing finances and operations within organisations. You look at how to manage resources efficiently and effectively within a dynamic environment using operational and financial information. You also examine the pressures and impact this has on organisational control.

Managers in organisations recognise that, if they are going to be successful, they need to tap into the skills and knowledge of their employees. How are they going to do this? This question has been at the centre of management thought over the course of the last century. Human resource management, as an academic discipline and a professional practice, explores the various dimensions of this question. In this module you consider, evaluate, analyse and apply a set of principles, values and approaches to leading and managing people. You look at how people can maximise their added-value to their own development and to corporate goals.