The main purpose of research can be classified according to three criteria (Braa & Vidgen 1999): - Prediction - Understanding - Change The typical 'hard science' model is that of causal prediction and a Cartesian reductionist approach is the chosen model, and statistical analysis of hypothetico-deductive reasoning is the dominant approach. In contrast to this, the more recent interest in seeking to more fully understand phenomena is reflected in a model where interpretivist and soft research methods are more prominent. Both of these approaches are now prominent in typical PhD research. However, another purpose of research is to seek to cause change. This borrows more from critical social theory (CST) and draws on a model of intervention as researchers seek to effect change. In the case of a professional doctorate such as this D.Eng, a primary concern is to effect change to solve a significant organisational problem. This module will set the foundations by covering each of these three paradigms in detail, and clarifying exactly when each might be more appropriate. This will be covered through key readings and workshop discussion. This model can also be used to map research methods. The traditional experimentation approach is associated with prediction while that of the 'soft case' is more common when following the understanding interpretivist paradigm. However of greater relevance for the D.Eng professional doctorate are those methods associated with the intervention/change paradigm. These include research approaches such as action research (Susman and Evered 1978). Action research is an iterative research approach which recognises two outcome: an action outcome whereby an actual problem is addressed; and a research outcome whereby a contribution to research is also made.

The following is a suggested list of topics to be covered in this course: - Overview of traditional scientific method - Research paradigms: positivist, interpretivist and critical research paradigms - Epistemology, ontology, methodology and axiology - Qualitative approaches to research - Grounded theory - Case studies - Rigour and relevance in research - Pragmatism - The reflective practitioner - Scientific Method v. Design Method - Introduction to engaged scholarship, action research and design science

On successful completion of this module students will be able to: Describe the context in which research takes place and understand the types of research associated with a professional doctorate such as the D.Eng. This will set the foundation for subsequent tailoring of research to the precise organisation context and problem setting.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to display a commitment to the research approach that is best suited to the organisational problem being addressed in their research.

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The mechanism for delivering this module involves key papers and books on the philosophy of research. These will be delivered over a series of 2-day workshops (Friday and Saturday). Delivery will be through a blended learning approach. This will include face-to-face classroom workshops, webinars and moderated discussion boards. Material will be introduced through expert workshops and learning will be developed through prescribed readings and other activities such as case studies, simulations, online activities, computational problems and other media. A series of tutor facilitated skills based workshops held for each module at which practical exercises and applications reinforce the learning material studied by participants in the on-line environment. This mode guides participants through material but requires them to deploy the learning in their own organisation through the delivery of an in-company project. Assessment of students will be based on a combination of regular assignments submitted throughout the course in conjunction with research progression.