MODULE DESCRIPTOR EB2001 International Business Communication 3A 10 ECTS
(Compulsory)
Module
Title
International Business Communication 2A
Module
Code
EB2001 (Level 5) CREDIT
VALUE
20 credits (10 ECTS)
Date of
Approval
June 2013 VERSION
NUMBER
1
SCHOOL Language, Literature
and International
Studies
PARTNER
INSTITUTION
Relationship with other Modules
Co-requisites
NONE Pre-requisites EB1006 or
EB1001/2 or
equivalent
Excluded
Combinations
NONE
Module Aims
To enable students to achieve a level of proficiency in English equivalent to CEF level B2;
To enable students to develop the language and communication skills necessary to operate in
multi-cultural business and educational environments;
To develop students’ awareness of, knowledge about and ability to discuss orally and in
written form, some key issues in contemporary international business.
MODULE Content
The module further extends and develops students’ English language knowledge and skills to a more
advanced level* by revisiting, at a higher level of complexity, the language and skills for international
business communication introduced and developed in EB1001, EB1002 and EB2001 and by
continuing to introduce a wider range of more complex and more specialist business situations,
concepts, issues and principles. Topics include:
language skills development issues in commerce & retailing
business communication skills
written and oral presentations
planning conducting & participating in
meetings
writing a range of business documents
issues in international business writing up a small business research
project based on secondary sources
language skills development issues in commerce & retailing
(*compared with EB2001)
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
1. demonstrate a level of English and communication skills to an equivalent of CEF B2
2. write a variety of business documents and participate in a variety of simulated business
activities
3. demonstrate an awareness of techniques and skills for effective meetings;
4. demonstrate awareness and understanding of some key issues in international business.
5. reflect on their personal and professional development needs with specific reference to
Business Communication in English
ASSESSMENT METHODS
The method of assessment for this module has been designed to test all the learning outcomes.
Students must demonstrate successful achievement of these learning outcomes to pass the module.
Only summative assessment should be included.
Number of
Assessments
Form of
Assessment
%
weighting
Size of
Assessment/Duration/
Wordcount
(indicative only)
Category of
assessment
Learning
Outcomes
being
assessed
1 Simulated
meeting
20% Group meetings 20-30
minutes
Practical
Assessment
1,2,3
1 Business
Writing
Task:
Briefing
document on
a business
issue
40% Research-based
briefing document on a
topical business issue
Including a reflective
statement
Coursework 1,2,4,5
1 Test
40% 2-hour test of reading,
writing and listening
skills in Business
English
Written Exam 1, 2, 4
Module Pass Requirements
Students are required to attempt all elements of assessment and achieve an average of at least 40%
overall.
Appendix
MODULE CODE: EB2002 Pre-requisite of EB2001
MODULE TITLE: International Business Communication 2A
location of study: UCLan campus
Module
TUTOr
Alison Roberts
Module
Delivery
Semester Long Semester 1 X Semester 2 Semester 3
Year long Semester 1 & 2 Semester 2 & 3
Other (please indicate pattern
of delivery)
Module Learning Plan
Learning, teaching AND ASSESSMENT Strategy
Teaching will be based on structured tasks and project-oriented activities, designed and ordered in
such a way as to lead to incremental development of language knowledge and skills. Tasks will
frequently be carried out in groups to help develop communication and teamwork skills. Writing
skills will be developed using process writing activities, which involve students in evaluating their
own and other students’ writing.
SCHEDULED LEARNING AND TEACHING ACTIVITY
Nature of interactions: Classroom-based and online lectures; tutor-led seminars; and tutor
guided projects, workshops and activities.
Graduate skills employed: English Language skills (reading, writing, speaking and
listening skills). Business skills; communication skills; problem solving; personal
development; subject skills; research skills; team working; project planning and evaluation;
innovation; sector skills; and reflection.
No. of
hours
Weekly lecture/seminars 56
Individual tutorials 4
TOTAL SCHEDULED LEARNING HOURS 60
GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY
Nature of interaction: Seminar preparation; directed reading; supplementary reading;
independent library work.
Graduate skills employed: English Language skills (reading, writing, speaking and
listening skills). Business skills; communication skills; problem solving; personal
development; subject skills; research skills; team working; and reflection.
No. of
hours
Preparation/practice for the seminar
Graduate and Employability Skills: Building the expected skills in
reading/listening/speaking and writing to meet the learning outcomes for this level of
language
70
Writing, editing and revising of assignments
Graduate and Employability Skills: Basic editing and proofreading skills
20
Preparation/practice for the assignments/test 30
Graduate and Employability Skills: Building the expected knowledge and skill base for
language
Group meetings for assignments: Graduate & employability skills: teamwork skills 20
TOTAL GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY HOURS 140
TOTAL STUDENT LEARNING HOURS 200
Bibliography and Learning Support Material for EB2001
i) Core Text:
Cotton, D, Falvey, D & Kent, S (2008) Market Leader- Upper Intermediate (New Edition),
Harlow: Pearson
ii) Extensive use is made of international business language media sources such as:
BBC, UK and international broadcasts
English language publications
iii) Indicative bibliography
Dictionaries:
Any Advanced Learners Mono-lingual English Dictionary such as:
Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English (2009), Pearson Education
Oxford Dictionary of English (2010), OUP Oxford
Business English texts:
Bovee, C.& Thill, J (2011) Business Communication Today (11th edition), Pearson Education
Horner, P. & Strutt, P. (2003), Words at Work, Cambridge University Press
McCarthy, M. & O’Dell, F. (2004), English Vocabulary in Use, Cambridge University
Press
Murphy, R. (2004) English Grammar In Use (3rd
edition), Cambridge University Press
Naunton, J. (2002), Head for Business: Upper Intermediate, OUP Oxford
Sweeney, S. (2003), English for Business Communication (2nd
edition), Cambridge University Press
Tullis, G & Trappe, T. (2004), New Insights into Business (2nd
edition), Longman
Wall, S. & B. Rees (2001), Introduction to International Business: Modular Texts in Business &
Economics, Harlow: Pearson/Financial Times
Wallwork, A. (2002), Business Vision, OUP Oxford
Woods, M. (2001), International Business : An Introduction, Houndmills: Palgrave
MODULE DESCRIPTOR MG2008 Project and Operations Management 10 ECTS
(Compulsory)
Module
Title
Project and Operations Management
Module
Code
MG2008 (L5) CREDIT
VALUE
20 credits
date
Approved
July 2013 VERSION
NUMBER
2
SCHOOL Lancashire Business
School
PARTNER
INSTITUTION
Relationship with other Modules
Co-requisites
None Pre-requisites None Excluded
Combinations
None
Module Aims
The aim of the module is to provide a clear, well structured and interesting treatment of logistics and
supply chain management, project management and quality management as they apply to a variety of
businesses and organisations. The module provides both a logical path through the activities of
logistics and supply chain management, project management and quality management and gives an
understanding of their strategic context.
MODULE Content
Project Management
Supply Chain Management & Logistics
Quality Management
Key topics covered by the module include:
customer-driven logistics system based upon identified service priorities
logistics impact on overall return on investment.
Logistic performance indicators: the concept of competitive benchmarking and the principles
behind the logistics scorecard.
Project Scope, Time, Cost, Quality, Risk and Integration Management Planning and Control,
Project Implementation and Closure.
Quality : TQM, Quality Assurance and Control, EFQM
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
1. analyse the differences and the inter-relationship of Supply Chain Management, Project
Management and Quality Management and the influence they have on the effective operation of
an organisation.
2. recognise the importance and criticality of exerting effective
controls over Supply Chain Management, Project Management
and Quality Management
3. use various software, tools and techniques to
evaluate, analyse and interpret results of case studies/models
and apply them.
ASSESSMENT METHODS
The method of assessment for this module has been designed to test all the learning outcomes.
Students must demonstrate successful achievement of these learning outcomes to pass the module.
Only summative assessment should be included.
Number of
Assessments
Form of
Assessment
%
weighting
Size of
Assessment/Duration/
Wordcount (indicative
only)
Category
of
assessment
Learning
Outcomes
being
assessed
1 Company
Performance
Review re:
how
profitable the
company is.
50% Group Coursework
Assignment: Case Study
Analysis and
recommendations of
Actions required 50%
Weighting
Coursework 1,2
1 Coursework 50% Coursework
Assignment – Case
Study
Coursework 2,3
Module Pass Requirements
An overall average achievement of 40% is required to pass the module with all assignments attempted
Appendix
MODULE CODE: MG2008 (L5)
MODULE TITLE: Project and Operations Management
location of study: Preston campus
Module
TUTOR(S)
Tom Kirby
Module
Delivery
Semester Long Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3
Year long Semester 1 & 2 Semester 2 & 3
Other (please indicate pattern
of delivery) Weekly
Module Learning Plan
Learning, teaching and assessment Strategy
A mixture of lectures, video’s, case studies, business models and appropriate software will be used to
introduce theoretical concepts and good practice and practical examples of the application of theory,
tools and techniques etc.
The teaching of all 3 topics will use real life case studies and guest lecturers from industry will be
invited in to enhance the teaching and learning outcomes.
SCHEDULED LEARNING AND TEACHING ACTIVITY
No of
hours
Lectures 30
Seminars 30
TOTAL SCHEDULED LEARNING HOURS 60
GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY
Seminar Preparation and guided reading 25
Researching and assignment writing 35
Group project meetings 20
Individual project work to contribute to group assignment 40
Individual reflection of personal and group processes and learning 20
TOTAL GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY HOURS 140
TOTAL STUDENT LEARNING HOURS
200
Bibliography and Learning Support Material
Christopher M. (2010) Logistics and Supply Chain Management (Creating Value-Adding
Networks); Prentice Hall
Cohen S. and Roussel J.(2004) Strategic Supply Chain Management (The 5 Core Disciplines for
Performance); McGraw Hill
Lock D. (2007) Project Management 9e, Gower
Oakland J.S.(2004) Oakland on Quality Management, Elsevier Butterworth Heinemann
MODULE DESCRIPTOR EC2102 Global Environment and Business 10 ECTS (Compulsory)
Module
Title
The Global Environment of Business
Module
Code
EC 2102(L5) CREDIT
VALUE
20 credits
date
Approved
May 2011 VERSION
NUMBER
2
SCHOOL LBS PARTNER
INSTITUTION
Relationship with other Modules
Co-requisites
Pre-requisites Excluded
Combinations
EC21o5
Module Aims
The module aims to critically introduce students to the global environment of business. It will
include an examination of the pricing policies and investment decisions of firms operating in the
world’s economy. The behaviour of MNEs is considered especially in the light of trade blocs.
MODULE Content
Indicative Content:
Understanding Globalisation
Multinational Enterprises
Pricing Policy
Foreign Direct Investment
Trade Blocs
Learning Outcomes
.On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
1. Explain the concept of globalisation and its impact on business
2. Describe how the business environment effects pricing policies and FDI strategies
3. Explain the key theories of international trade
ASSESSMENT METHODS
The method of assessment for this module has been designed to test all the learning outcomes.
Students must demonstrate successful achievement of these learning outcomes to pass the
module. Only summative assessment should be included.
Number of
Assessments
Form of
Assessment
%
weighting
Size of
Assessment/Duration/
Wordcount (indicative
only)
Category
of
assessment
Learning
Outcomes
being
assessed
1 Time
constrained
short
answers
40% 1 hour
Written
Exam
1,2, 3
1 Test 60% 90 minutes Written
Exam
1,2, 3
Module Pass Requirements
Students are required to undertake both assessments and achieve a weighted average mark of at
least 40% to pass the module
Appendix
MODULE CODE: EC2102 (L5)
MODULE TITLE: THE GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT OF BUSINESS
location of study: UCLAN MAIN CAMPUS
Module
TUTOR(S)
Des Monk
Module
Delivery
Semester Long Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3
Year long Semester 1 & 2 Semester 2 & 3
Other (please indicate
pattern of delivery)
Weekly
Module Learning Plan
Learning, teaching and assessment Strategy
A combination of teaching and assessment strategies will aid student learning. Thus, the module
provides some tutor inputs to and it is expected that students will supplement this with their own
reading and preparation for seminars and take part in informed discussion during seminars.
Additional support can also be provided by arrangement outside normal timetabled sessions and by e-
mail.
The module is designed to develop the key attributes of analysis and evaluation.
The module is assessed through a combination of time-constrained short answer questions and an in-
course test at the end of the module.
SCHEDULED LEARNING AND TEACHING ACTIVITY
No of
hours
Lectures 30
Seminars 30
TOTAL SCHEDULED LEARNING HOURS 60
GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY
Preparation for seminars 60
Preparation for assessments 60
Reflection on feedback given 20
TOTAL GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY HOURS 140
TOTAL STUDENT LEARNING HOURS 200
Bibliography and Learning Support Material:
Indicative Content
Daniels J & Radebaugh L 2008 International Business: Environments & Operations Pearson,
Harlow
Hamilton l & Webster P 2008 The International Business Environment OUP, Oxford
Morrison J International Business 2009 Challenges in a Changing World, Palgrave, London
MODULE DESCRIPTOR BC2005 Internship 1 10 ECTS (Optional)
Module Title Summer Internship
Module Code BC2005(L5) CREDIT
VALUE
20 credits
Date
Approved
May 2011 VERSION
NUMBER
1
SCHOOL Lancashire Business
School
PARTNER
INSTITUTION
N/A
Relationship with other Modules
Co-requisites
None Pre-requisites None Excluded
Combinations
Subject to
programme
delivery
Module Aims
To allow students to undertake specific work based projects during the summer vacation. The module
will allow a student to learn by relating theoretical knowledge to a practical work based project and to
reflect and learn from the experience. It will develop the student’s knowledge of work and
employability skills.
MODULE Content
This will be individually agreed between the student and the module tutor, but will include
completion of a reflection on the development of Graduate Attributes considered in conjunction with
the employer.
Learning Outcomes
These will be individually agreed between the student and the module tutor. The following level
descriptors provide a broad outline of the appropriate academic level that students will need to
demonstrate.
On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
1. Design and make use of practical, methodologically sound research to contribute to the
production of a work-based project.
2. Draw upon a broad personal or formal knowledge-base as well as concepts, theories and models
and apply these to find ways forward when faced with contradictions and dilemmas in a work
situation
3. Transfer and apply subject specific, cognitive and transferable skills and problem-solving
strategies to a range of situations and to solve complex problems
4. Communicate solutions, arguments and ideas clearly and in a variety of forms.
ASSESSMENT METHODS
The method of assessment for this module has been designed to test all the learning outcomes.
Students must demonstrate successful achievement of these learning outcomes to pass the module.
This will be negotiated between the module tutor and the student. It could be a single piece of
coursework or a perhaps several integrated pieces of work. The module tutor will ensure an
appropriate level of work is undertaken by the student. The example below is indicative only to
provide a guide to work load.
Number of
Assessments
Form of
Assessment
%
weighting
Size of
Assessment/Duration/
Wordcount (indicative
only)
Category of
assessment
Learning
Outcomes
being
assessed
1 Reflective
Essay
40% 1,750 words
Coursework 1, 2, 3 & 4
1 Report 40% 1,750 words
Coursework 1, 2, 3 & 4
1 Presentation 20% 50 minutes Practical
assessment
1, 2, 3 & 4
Module Pass Requirements
The pass requirements for this module will depend on the agreed assessments. Students will need to
gain a grade of 40% or above on a single piece of work or a weighted aggregate of 40% or above
when two or more elements of assessment are agreed.
Appendix
MODULE CODE: BC2005(L5) MODULE TITLE: SuMMER INTERNSHIP
location of study: UCLan Main CAMPUS
Module
TUTOR(S)
Francesca Walker
Module
Delivery
Semester Long Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3
Year long Semester 1 & 2 Semester 2 & 3
Other (please indicate pattern
of delivery)
Distance Learning
Module Learning Plan
Learning, teaching and assessment Strategy
Within the Lancashire Business School (LBS) we recognise the challenges faced by graduates in the
current climate. We therefore aim to provide all of our undergraduates with a wealth of opportunities
to enhance their future employability. Summer Internships will provide students with the opportunity
to develop and enhance their Graduate Attributes, so gaining the relevant skills needed to enter the
workforce.
This module will be student directed and researched to reflect the agreed module aims and objectives.
1. Before commencement of the project students will be required to:
a) Seek an interview with the Course or Module leader to indicate that they wish to
undertake a Work based project;
b) Agree an outline of their project covering the following:
i) the objectives of the project;
ii) the anticipated learning outcomes;
iii) the content, structure, scope, approach to study and time scales within the
project;
iv) indicative reading as background;
2. The Course/Module Leader will sign the student onto the module, if the project is acceptable;
3. The Course/Module Leader will assign a tutor to supervise the project;
4. The student must seek regular meetings with the tutor assigned to ensure that progress is
maintained;
5. The student must submit work by the deadlines set;
6. Work submitted will be marked as normal according to School procedures.
SCHEDULED LEARNING AND TEACHING ACTIVITY
No of
hours
There are no formal classes for this module. Students will meet with the assigned tutor
in one-to-one meetings to progress the project.
20
TOTAL SCHEDULED LEARNING HOURS 20
GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY
Researching and assignment writing 60
LBS GAP completion (learning from feedback on placement and with tutor) 10
Guided Reading 50
Presentation Preparation 10
TOTAL GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY HOURS 130
PLACEMENT HOURS
Work placement 50
TOTAL PLACEMENT HOURS 50
TOTAL STUDENT LEARNING HOURS
200
Bibliography and Learning Support Material
The assigned tutor will guide students to appropriate reading and learning support material. The items
below are good generic materials to aid the process of learning from work.
Cameron, S. (2009)The Business Student’s Handbook (5th Edition), Financial Times/Prentice Hall
Guirdham, M, (2003) Interpersonal Skills at Work (3rd
Edition), Financial Times
Raelin, J. A. (2008) Work-Based Learning, Prentice Hall
MODULE DESCRIPTOR BC2001 Research Methods 10 ECTS (Optional)
Module Title Research Methods
Module Code BC2001 (L5) CREDIT
VALUE
20 Credits
date
Approved
May 2011 VERSION
NUMBER
1
SCHOOL Lancashire Business
School
PARTNER
INSTITUTION
SMa Singapore
VTC Hong Kong
Relationship with other Modules
Co-requisites
Pre-requisites Excluded
Combinations
Module Aims
To enable students to gain a comprehensive knowledge of the research process, build research skills,
and develop the capacity to apply qualitative and quantitative research methods and analyse results.
The module will help students to understand and apply methods, evaluate existing research, and
prepare them to undertake research for the dissertation/ report module.
MODULE Content
The indicative syllabus includes:
Role uses of theory, models and hypotheses in research.
Research assumptions.
Research ethics
Searching and reviewing previous literature, information and source material
Generating ideas for a research topic
Developing a research proposal for dissertations and reports
Developing research aims and objectives
Research approaches: qualitative research; qualitative research; mixed methods.
Research design strategies
Data collection methods
Sampling
Negotiating access
Analysing qualitative data
Analysing quantitative data
Validity, reliability and data veracity
Drawing conclusions/ making recommendations
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
1. Analyse previous research relevant to their subject area and formulate appropriate research
questions, aims and objectives drawing upon this.
2. Select and utilise appropriate data collection methods for both qualitative and quantitative
research
3. Develop a research proposal selecting appropriate subject relevant literature and research
strategies and methods
4. Analyse qualitative and quantitative data
5. Describe the role of ethics in research
ASSESSMENT METHODS
The methods of assessment for this module have been designed to test all the learning outcomes.
Students must demonstrate successful achievement of these learning outcomes to pass the module.
Number of
Assessments
Form of
Assessment
%
weighting
Size of Assessment/
Duration/
Word count
(indicative only)
Category
of
assessment
Learning
Outcomes
being
assessed
1 Essay on
research
methods
40% 2000 Coursework 2
6 tests of 15
mins each
Tests 20% Time- limited tests
completed online
Written
Exam
2 & 4
1 Research
proposal
40% 2000 Coursework 1, 3 & 5
Module Pass Requirements
Students are required to attempt all pieces of assessment and attain an overall weighted average mark
of 40% or above.
Students must attempt all on line tests to pass the module.
Once the module has been passed the student will be allocated a dissertation or report supervisor.
Appendix
MODULE CODE: BC2001 (L5) MODULE TITLE: RESEARCH METHODS
location of study: UCLan MAIN CAMPUS & SMa Singapore VTC Hong Kong
Module
TUTOR(S)
Dr Carol Jones, Dr Mary Welch, Dr Mitch Larson, Dr Marion Schulze
Module
Delivery
Semester Long Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3
Year long Semester 1 & 2 Semester 2 & 3
Other (please indicate pattern
of delivery) Weekly
Module Learning Plan
Learning, teaching and assessment Strategy
The module will employ a mix of formal taught input and practical exercises organised around
weekly interactive workshop sessions. There will be some formal input during which key concepts
are introduced. Students will also be given exercises to complete to develop their practical research
skills. This will include interviewing skills, using research software for collecting and analysing data,
developing and conducting surveys, selecting and using sampling techniques, and understanding the
ethical challenges that researchers can face. They will also be given the opportunity to evaluate
existing research and to engage in discussion and debate about how research is planned and carried
out, how choices are made by researchers, the use to which research is put and the challenges
involved in conducting research.
The module will be supported by online material and students will be expected to use these resources
regularly to reinforce workshop-based learning. The module is assessed through a combination of
individual written work and undertaking a series of time-limited online activities to further develop
and assess the students' understanding of how research data are collected and analysed. The first
assignment is a research methods essay and it is designed to enable students to understand how to
select an appropriate research strategy and method(s) for research. The final assignment comprises a
research proposal on a topic of the student's own choice. Students review previous subject-specific
research and use the knowledge they acquire from
this exercise and from the module content to devise a research proposal.
Graduate Skills and Attributes: written and oral communication; planning and time management;
decision making; data collection and analysis; evaluation; numeracy;
research skills; problem solving.
SCHEDULED LEARNING AND TEACHING ACTIVITY
No of
hours
Lectures/ workshops 60
TOTAL SCHEDULED LEARNING AND TEACHING ACTIVITY
(At Level 4, normally a minimum of 60 hours per 20 credits, unless offset elsewhere in
the course)
60
TOTAL GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY HOURS
Preparation for workshops and guided reading 70
Assignment preparation, research and writing, undertaking online tests 60
Reflection on and remedial work relating to generic and individual assessment feedback 10
TOTAL GUIDED INDEPENDENT LEARNING HOURS 140
TOTAL STUDENT LEARNING HOURS
These must add up to 200 hours per 20 credits
200
Bibliography and Learning Support Material
Essential Texts
Bryman, A. and Bell, E. (2011) Business Research Methods 3rd Ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press
Saunders, M., Thornhill, A., Lewis, P., MicMillan, K. and Weyers, J. (2008) Research methods for
business students Harlow : Financial Times Prentice Hall
Additional Texts
Baker, M., J. and Foy, A. (2008) Business and Management Research: How to Complete Your
Research Project Successfully 2nd
Ed. Oxford: Westburn
Blumberg, B, Cooper, D.R. & Schindler, P.S. (2011) Business Research Methods, New York,
McGraw Hill
Collis, J. and Hussey, R. (2009) Business research : a practical guide for undergraduate and
postgraduate students 3rd ed. - Basingstoke : Palgrave Macmillan
Cresswell, J.W. (2002), Research design: qualitative and quantitative approaches. 2nd Ed. London,
Sage.
Gill, John (2002) Research methods for managers 3rd ed. - London : SAGE
Gregory, I. (2003) Ethics in research London : Continuum
Hackley, C., E. (2003) Doing research projects in marketing, management and consumer research
London : Routledge
Jankowicz, A.D. (2005), Business Research Projects. London, Thompson.
Jesson, J & Matheson, L (2011) Doing your literature review: traditional and systematic techniques,
London, Sage.
Punch, K. (2005) Introduction to social research: qualitative and quantitative methods, 2nd Ed.
London, Sage.
Robson, C. (2007) How to do a research project - a guide for undergraduate students. Oxford,
Blackwell.
Sekaran, U. (2009) Research methods for business : a skill-building approach 5th ed. - New York :
Wiley
Wilson, J. (2010) Essentials of business research : a guide to doing your research project London:
Sage
MODULE DESCRIPTOR MG2003 Business Decision Modelling 10 ECTS (Optional)
Module
Title Business Decision Modelling
Module
Code MG2003 (L5)
CREDIT
VALUE 20 credits
date
Approved May 2011
VERSION
NUMBER 1
SCHOOL Lancashire Business
School PARTNER INSTITUTION N/A
Relationship with other Modules
Co-requisites Pre-requisites Excluded
Combinations None
Module Aims
This module aims:
To extend the range of concepts introduced at the Level 1 quantitative module.
To develop numeracy and quantitative techniques for the construction and interpretation of
more sophisticated business models.
To develop IT package handling facilities that will expand the range of business models that
can be effectively analysed.
MODULE Content
Students taking this module will have come from a very diverse range of routes into the BABS Part-
Time degree. All will have completed the equivalent of a level 4 quantitative module at some stage.
Experience shows that this may have been some years ago. Initially identification of the common
knowledge base is important to obtaining the confidence of the student to progress. Two of the
textbooks on the reading list have web based support. Using this with direction students can be
brought to a common level quickly.
The initial area for extension will focus on the basic principles of data analysis, which will normally
take about half the semester. The module will then examine a small range of deterministic business
decision models, the emphasis being placed on the development of the model and its interrogation in
the light of ‘What-if’ scenarios and how this provides useful management information.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate a conceptual and working knowledge of more complex quantitative business
models.
2. Critically evaluate the modeling process.
3. Effectively use business software packages as an agent for solving business problems
ASSESSMENT METHODS
The method of assessment for this module has been designed to test all the learning outcomes.
Students must demonstrate successful achievement of these learning outcomes to pass the module.
Only summative assessment should be included.
Number of
Assessments
Form of
Assessment
%
weighting
Size of
Assessment/Duration/
Word count (indicative
only)
Category
of
assessment
Learning
Outcomes
being
assessed
1 coursework 50%
Staged over the
semester. Designed to
test the student’s ability
Coursework
all
to handle all aspects of
the material provided in
a non timed constrained
manner.
1 End of module
exam 50%
Normally 2.5 hours
Focuses on the
conceptual issues.
Written
exam all
Module Pass Requirements
The final module grade will be calculated as the average of the coursework and End of Module Exam,
with the coursework and End of Module Exam being equally weighted. The normal pass mark is
40%.
Appendix
MODULE CODE: MG2303 (L5) MODULE TITLE: Business Decision Modeling
location of study: UCLan Campus
Module
TUTOR(S)
Tatjana Kecojevic
Module
Delivery
Semester Long Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3
Year long Semester 1 & 2 Semester 2 & 3
Other (please indicate pattern
of delivery)
Weekly
Module Learning Plan
Learning, teaching and assessment Strategy
This module will be taught as a weekly three hour block to part-time BABS students over one
semester. The first meeting will initially use the full three hours to identify the base line with the
cohort from previous courses and define what background work they need to prepare. (Experience
shows that the group is of a size where this is possible). The module will then be delivered with a
mixture of lecture input, primarily to provide information and examples which will be supported by
additional materials. The pattern for the last part of the evening is to provide one of either a seminar
problem solving class or a machine practical class. (Normal practice for this module has been to book
a computer lab for the final hour of the evening so that students can practise IT skills required to
support the module.)
SCHEDULED LEARNING AND TEACHING ACTIVITY
No of
hours
Lectures 22.5
Seminars 22.5
TOTAL SCHEDULED LEARNING HOURS 45
GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY
Preparation for seminars 45
Preparation for practicals 15
Preparation for coursework 30
Preparation for examination 20
Independent reading 45
TOTAL GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY HOURS 155
TOTAL STUDENT LEARNING HOURS 200
Bibliography and Learning Support Material
The module is supported by eLearn and materials covered in the lectures and information in relation
to the assignments and examination can be found at
www.uclan.ac.uk/information/current_students/index.php
Recommended Texts
Bowerman B. L., O’Connell R. T. And Murphree E. S. (2011), Business Statistics in Practice, 6th Ed.
McGraww-Hill.
Morris C. (2002) Quantitative Approaches in Business Studies, 6th Ed. Pearson EducatioLtd.
Silver M. (1992), Business Statistics. McGraw Hill.
Smailes J, McGrane. (2000), Essential Business Statistics. Pearson Education Ltd.