Your research must achieve the learning outcomes at the
standards provided. It must be related to a topic associated with
strategic business development. You must prepare a portfolio of
evidence which includes all the work completed for the following
tasks.
Task 1 – Formulate a Research Proposal In this section of the
portfolio you should: • Consider and identify a valid area for
research to support the strategic development of a business area •
Explain the aim, scope and objectives for a chosen area of research
• Formulate a specific research proposal • Establish success
criteria for the achievement of the research proposal • Prepare a
project plan that identifies key milestones and critical
pathways.
Extension activities: To gain a merit grade you must: • Justify
the research area you have chosen which will support the
achievement of an aspect of strategic business development.
Task 2
Carry out the research using different research
methodologies
In this section of the portfolio you need to: • Complete a
review of different literature sources identifying those which are
most appropriate for your chosen area of research • Use different
research methodologies to gather data from primary and secondary
sources. The data must be sufficient in order to ensure you can
make valid conclusions Extension activities: To gain a merit grade
you must: • Justify the research methodologies chosen.
Task 3 – Presentation of Research Findings In this section of
the portfolio you must prepare a report that presents all of your
research findings. This must be presented in an appropriate format
for the target audience. In the report, you must: • Provide a
comprehensive explanation of the purpose, methodologies, findings
and recommendations. • Reference all sources using a recognised
system. • Use the information you have collected to justify
conclusions and recommendations.
Extension activities: To gain a merit grade you must: • Respond
orally to questions on research findings.
• Analyse how the findings of your research can be used in a
specific strategic business context.
Task 4 – Reflective Log
On completion of your research project, you are to prepare a
reflective log which contains an evaluation of the skills you used
while undertaking the research.
The reflective log must include: • A review of your own skills
using personal reflection and feedback. • Recommendations on ways
to improve your personal skills while undertaking research.
Extension activities: To gain a merit grade you must include the
following in your reflective log: • A plan to improve your own
research skills. To gain a distinction grade you must: • Implement
the plan and assess the impact on your own personal progress.