22901 Accounting Research and Consulting Skills
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Credit points: 6 cp
Subject level:
Undergraduate
Result type: Grade and marksThere are course requisites for this subject. See access conditions.
Description
The subject provides an overview of the research process used in accounting research and sets the foundation for the study of research in the specific accounting research streams covered in the other Accounting Honours subjects. The subject commences with an examination of the research paradigms which are used in accounting research, and then discusses the steps involved in the research process. The subject also provides an applied overview of the statistical concepts and techniques that are used in accounting research.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
| 1. | Appraise the main paradigms used in accounting research |
|---|---|
| 2. | Assess the steps involved in the research process |
| 3. | Implement the statistical techniques used in accounting research |
| 4. | Critically appraise the approach and statistics in prior accounting research |
Contribution to the development of graduate attributes
This subject provides an in-depth examination of the research process and statistical techniques used in accounting research. It therefore provides essential knowledge, concepts, skills and techniques for students to undertake accounting research at Honours level. Students develop critical thinking, creativity and analytical skills, which are necessary skills required to complete their Honours thesis. They also advance their written and oral communication and interpersonal skills.
This subject also contributes specifically to develop the following Program Learning Objectives:
- Apply critical thinking and analytical skills in the process of completing a research project (1.1)
- Evaluate how research design and outcomes create value for Indigenous Australians, and contribute to ways that others can work ethically and sustainably (3.1)
- Apply the appropriate research method and analytical tools in addressing discipline specific problems (4.1)
Teaching and learning strategies
The teaching methods include informal lectures, computer-based statistical assignments, discussion groups and presentations by students. Students will read and summarise the relevant readings and prepare homework prior to class. Student summaries and homework are required to be submitted to the lecturer prior to the commencement of each class. The lecturer will mark and provide regular feedback to students in class regarding their homework submissions. In class, students are required to lead discussions on the reading summaries and homework, which they have prepared prior to attending class. These student-led discussions are guided and facilitated through frequent contributions by the lecturer. Students are encouraged to collaboratively contribute to the in the class discussions led by both other students and the lecturer.
Content (topics)
- Alternative paradigms used in accounting research
- Developing and motivating a research question in business and academia
- Undertaking a literature review and developing theory and hypotheses
- Advantages and limitations of alternative research designs
- Sources of corporate information and electronic databases
- Ethical issues encountered in undertaking research
- Statistical methods used in accounting research
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Essay (Individual)
| Objective(s): | This addresses subject learning objective(s): 1 and 4 |
|---|---|
| Weight: | 30% |
| Length: | Maximum 8 pages. |
| Criteria: | Define the main paradigms used in accounting research 10% Identify and compare the differences in the main paradigms used in accounting research 25% Describe the advantages and disadvantages of the main paradigms used in accounting research 40% Discuss the potential social implications of prior accounting research 25% |
Assessment task 2: Homework Assignments 1 (Individual)*
| Objective(s): | This addresses subject learning objective(s): 2 and 3 |
|---|---|
| Weight: | 30% |
| Length: | Maximum 2 pages plus attachments. |
| Criteria: | Apply the steps involved in the research process 25% Critically evaluate the steps involved in the research process 25% Apply the statistical techniques found in accounting research 25% Discuss the statistical techniques found in accounting research 25% *Note: Late submission of the assessment task will not be marked and awarded a mark of zero. |
Assessment task 3: Replication of existing research (Individual)
| Objective(s): | This addresses subject learning objective(s): 2 and 3 |
|---|---|
| Weight: | 40% |
| Length: | Maximum 35 pages. |
| Criteria: | Detail the statistical analysis found in prior accounting research 25% Replicate the statistical analysis found in prior accounting research 25% Assess the statistical analysis found in prior accounting research 25% Apply and extend the statistical analysis found in prior accounting research 25% |
Minimum requirements
Students must achieve at least 50% of the subject’s total marks.
Required texts
Nil
Recommended texts
Zikmund, W., Babin, B., Carr, J., and M. Griffin, 2013, Business Research Methods, Cengage, 9th edition (ZBCG).
Other readings will be distributed prior to the commencement of class.