Assignment

Please note that this sample assignment is for our new suite of level 7 qualifications in strategic management which became available on October 1^st 2016.

Unit M/615/2675 Research for Strategic Development

Level 7                  15 Credits

Related Qualifications

ATHE Level 7 Diploma in Management 603/0629/4
ATHE Level 7 Extended Diploma in Management 603/0630/0

Sample Assignment

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. 

LO1 AC 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5 

1M1

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 

LO2 AC 2.1 2.2 2M1 

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. 

To gain a distinction grade you must: 

• Analyse how the findings of your research can be used in a specific strategic business context. 

LO2 AC 3.1, 3.2, 3.3

3M1

3D1

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.

• 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.  

LO4 AC 4.1,4.2

4M1

4M2

4D1 

Guidelines for assessors 

The assignments submitted by learners must achieve the learning outcomes and meet the standards specified by the assessment criteria for the unit. To achieve a merit or distinction grade, the learners must demonstrate that they have achieved all the criteria set for these grades. Where work for the pass standard is marginal, assessors can take account of any extension work completed by the learners. The suggested evidence listed below is how learners can demonstrate that they have met the required standards.