The module advances the following competences: goal orientation, business thinking, understanding of the role of research in business processes, analysing skills, academic writing and presentation skills, critical thinking, self-reflection and savvy use of digital tools. The module is closely linked with the other modules throughout the studies.

Research process
Secondary data sources
Types of research
Qualitative and quantitative data collection methods
Data analysis methods
Digital tools used in data collection and reporting
Academic writing and reporting

Inquiry learning
Tutorials
Lectures and workshops
Independent study and teamwork
The assessment of one’s own learning

If students have acquired the required competence in previous work tasks, recreational activities or in other studies, they can show the competence with a demonstration and progress faster through their studies. More information and instructions for recognising and validating prior learning (RPL) are available at MyNet.

Books on the content topics
E-books and online articles
Online tutorials
Companies’ web-portals
Industry related reports and statistics
Relevant media, news agencies, quality press, etc.
Social networking tools
Instructors’ own materials, materials produced by students.

The module is a part of basic studies in Porvoo Campus competence-based curriculum

The student has a limited picture of the research approaches and has difficulties in naming qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The student shows some ability to collect the data needed for the research, but needs assistance and support in organising and analysing the material. The student participates in the project planning, implementation, reporting and evaluation with a minimal input. The student requires extra support from peers and supervisors in order to complete tasks.

The student is familiar with the research approaches and can explain and provide practical examples of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The student is able to design and implement the data collection so that the material is fairly comprehensive and representative, as well as to analyze the data appropriately and carefully so that conclusions can be drawn. The student participates in the project planning, implementation, reporting and evaluation independently and makes use of the advise available. The student is able to operate when the task and instructions are given.

The student is familiar with the research approaches and is able to assess the suitability of different data collection methods for different research tasks. The student is able to design and implement the data collection so that the material is comprehensive, representative and reliable, and to analyze the data appropriately and carefully so that it is possible to make meaningful and justified conclusions. The student participates proactively and with goal-orientation in the project planning, implementation, reporting and evaluation. The student is able display a goal-oriented mindset and professional attitude.