University of Technology SydneyHandbook 2008

22901 Accounting Research and Consulting Skills

Faculty of Business: Accounting
Credit points: 6 cp

Subject level: Undergraduate

Result Type: Grade and marks

Handbook description

The subject introduces students to the notion of scientific and applied research. Building on these frameworks, students are taught how to identify research questions, develop theoretical frameworks and empirically test their theories. Students are also given insight into how to structure research reports.

Subject objectives/outcomes

On successful completion of this subject students should be able to:

  1. To introduce students to the concepts of scientific research.
  2. To review some key statistical issues.
  3. To identify the key steps of the research process.
  4. To develop in students an appreciation for the alternative research methodologies.
  5. To practice students in the techniques of experimental design.

Contribution to graduate profile

This subject furnishes students with the necessary research skills to write their honours thesis. It contributes to the overall objectives of the Bachelor of Business (Honours) programme in Accounting by enhancing students' analytical skills, statistical skills and ability to structure and write research reports.

Teaching and learning strategies

The teaching methods include formal lectures, computer-based assignments, discussion groups and presentations by the students.

Content

  • What is this thing called science? Positive versus normative approaches.
  • Sources of corporate information and computerised data bases in Australia.
  • The identification and motivation of different research problems.
  • Theory and hypotheses development.
  • Measurement issues and operationalisation of variables.
  • Laboratory research and clinical studies.
  • Survey methods - design and measurement issues.
  • Alternative experimental designs.
  • The structuring of research reports.

Assessment

Class assignment (Individual)30%
This addresses objectives 1 and 2.
Replication of an existing research (Individual)35%
This addresses objectives 3 and 4.
Essay (Individual)35%
This addresses objectives 1-5.

Small group teaching assures the security of assessment processes.

Recommended text(s)

Zikmund, W.G., 2003, Business Research Methods, Dryden Press, Seventh Edition (ZWG).

Selected journal articles.

Indicative references

Delwiche, L. D. and S. J. Slaughter, 1998, The Little SAS Book: A Primer, Second Edition, SAS Institute.

Kinnear, P.R. and C.D. Gray, 1999, SPSS for Windows Made Simple, Psychology Press.

Ticehurst, G.W. and A.J. Veal, 1999, Business Research Methods – a Managerial Approach, Longman.