BUS 653
Business Research Methods
Semester Units
Prequisite
3
None
Course Description
This course is designed to provide a working knowledge of research methods and analytical techniques as they are used in business and government as tools for implementing a systematic approach to planning policies, programs and projects. It combines in one course the study of research methodology, the planning and design of research, and the management science tools that are used and the nature of decisions to which the research and analysis contribute. Modern decision theory which treats managerial problem solving as the selection of the best solution from a set of alternatives is emphasized. The course is not concerned with abstract statistical concepts but, rather, with the applicable techniques and their use in solving practical business problems.
In addition to providing a working knowledge of research methods and design, the course includes a brief, but thorough description of forty (40) tools of analysis with a description of the technique and its application. None of the techniques require sophisticated mathematical or computer implementation. Emphasis is placed on how the techniques are used and how to implement the results.
Course Learning Outcomes
Describe the research process.
Illustrate the general format and types of research requests and proposals.
Demonstrate the need for ethics in the research process.
Characterize the various types of research designs and identify their corresponding data types.
Describe the types of data measurement methodologies and explain their various strengths and weaknesses.
Explain the general methodologies used in data preparation and exploration.
Define a hypothesis and describe the process of hypothesis testing.
Illustrate the methods and best practices for presenting research findings.