ACX4000 · Research design and methods

Overview

This unit introduces the research design process and a broad range of methodologies used in accounting research. It examines the foundations of scientific inquiry and the key components of research in accounting, including methodology selection, data considerations, and ethical issues. You will develop skills in formulating research questions and hypotheses, and in designing and applying appropriate research methods.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. critically analyse the philosophical foundations of scientific inquiry and assess their implications for research design in accounting
2. analyse and compare the ontological and epistemological assumptions underlying major research traditions in accounting, and justify the research positioning of a given study
3. apply and evaluate validity frameworks (conclusion, internal, construct, and external validity) to assess the rigour of accounting research designs
4. critically evaluate and justify the selection of major research methods in accounting— archival, experimental (laboratory and field), and survey/qualitative — considering their assumptions, strengths, and limitations
5. design and develop a coherent research proposal that includes a clearly articulated research question, theoretically grounded hypotheses, and an appropriate research design
6. effectively communicate and defend research design decisions through written and oral presentations.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. You are expected to complete all pre-class activities prior to your scheduled class, and post-class activities should be completed after your scheduled class. Learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed, peer directed and online engagement activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.