Course Catalogue

Introduction to Data MGT5512

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: Adam Smith Business School
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course provides an integrated introduction to the conceptual and practical foundations of data in management research. Moving beyond the qualitative/quantitative binary, students will explore the full research lifecycle, from the initial formulation of research questions to data collection, ethical data management and the application of Open Science principles. The course equips researchers with the literacy to navigate diverse data repositories (including digital, secondary, and visual sources) ensuring a robust grounding for doctoral-level inquiry.

Timetable

10 x 2 hour tutorials

Requirements of Entry

Students must be registered on one of the associated programmes listed in this course specification.

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

1. Oral assessment & presentation; Individual; 15 minutes; 40%; ILOs 1,4.

2. Practical skills assessment; Individual; 2100 words; 60%; ILOs, 2-4.

Course Aims

This course aims to:

 

■ Introduce the principles of qualitative & quantitative research design in Management research.

 

■ Understand the different sources of qualitative & quantitative data including primary and secondary data.

 

■ Embed Open Science principles and good ethical practice throughout the research process.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

 

1. Evaluate how research questions influence the choice of data & data collection methods.

 

2. Design a research strategy that adheres to professional ethical standards, data ethics, and the principles of reproducibility.

 

3. Manage the research data lifecycle, demonstrating competency in handling, cleaning, and securely storing diverse data types.

 

4. Critically assess the value and limitations of using existing surveys, social media, and big data repositories for management research.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions