Unit 11: Research Project
Double-weight capstone unit—primary field research and dissertation demonstrating advanced academic and professional inquiry.
What is Unit 11 — Research Project?
The Research Project (Unit 11) is a double-weight Level 5 unit requiring independent investigation of a significant business issue.
Assessment centres on Primary Field Research & Dissertation quality, methodology rigour, and actionable recommendations.
This is the most demanding HND Business assignment and a key determinant of university top-up offers.
Core Strategic Value
- •Dissertation Standard: Produce 8,000+ word academic business research.
- •Field Research: Collect primary data ethically and systematically.
- •Contribution: Advance theory and practice for the chosen organisation.
What You Will Study
This unit develops practical, industry-aligned competencies across 4 core learning modules:
1. Proposal & Ethics Approval
Define research gap, questions, and objectives
Complete literature review and conceptual framework
Secure ethics approval and access agreements
Plan timeline for fieldwork and writing phases
2. Primary Data Collection
Implement surveys, interviews, or ethnographic methods
Manage sampling, response rates, and data quality
Address researcher bias and confidentiality
Maintain detailed fieldwork logs
3. Analysis & Discussion
Apply thematic, statistical, or comparative analysis
Relate findings to literature and theory
Discuss implications for management practice
Acknowledge limitations and future research
4. Dissertation Submission & Viva
Structure dissertation to academic conventions
Submit appendices, ethics forms, and raw data summaries
Defend methodology and conclusions in viva if required
Meet double-weight grading descriptors for distinction
Structure & Parameters
Assessment Policies & Logistics
Submission Windows
Internal and external assessment deadlines follow Pearson BTEC session calendars. Confirm key dates with ICT Business School at enrollment.
Academic Integrity
All coursework and exam submissions must meet Pearson authenticity standards. Plagiarism checks and verification apply to every unit.
Learner Support
Access tutor feedback, assignment briefings, and resubmission guidance through our structured BTEC support pathway at ICT Business School.
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