London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

Modules159 Research project in information systems

Prerequisite

If taken as part of a BSc degree:
62 Information systems development and management and 103 Elements of information and communication technologies or 138 Information
and communications technologies: principles and perspectives

Exclusion
This unit may not be taken with 63 Information systems project.
Aims and objectives
? To integrate the various units studied in the BSc Information systems and
management and the Diploma for Graduates in Information systems.
? To develop a deeper level of understanding of a particular information
systems topic of special interest through independent study.
? To provide students with an opportunity to develop their research skills and to
present a substantial piece of original work based on academic approaches
applied within the field of information systems.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this unit and having undertaken the associated readings, exercises
and their own research activity, students should be able to:
? Identify the broad outline of the field of information systems and be able to
identify a number of key areas that are researched, and that might be
researchable within the constraints of the unit.
? Select a study topic within the field of information systems and relate it to
broader themes and debates within the field.
? Locate and review materials within the specific areas of interest and focus,
going beyond standard textbooks and including academic research literature.
? Design a research project including assessing the resources required to
undertake it, the skills needed and preparing a plan.
? Select a research approach and a conceptual framework appropriate to the
chosen topic, together with relevant research techniques.
? Undertake a project including selecting data sources, collecting data and
undertaking analysis.

? Write a research report in an appropriate style and which is able to convey the
essential detail of work undertaken, the research findings and conclusions.
? Monitor and assess progress and modify plans as required.
Syllabus
This unit consists of an individual project undertaken by the student. The unit is
intended to consolidate material that is learnt within the programme, and to allow
students to develop and apply knowledge in a particular area of information
systems.
The scope of the project can range from a theoretical investigation of some aspect
of information systems, to more practical systems analysis work or study of
information systems in use. However, it must remain focused on the core topics of
information systems and the application and use of information and
communication technology within social and organisational contexts..
In all cases a student will be expected to:
? explore relevant and up to date research literature in information systems
following guidance and recommendations in the subject guide
? explore literature relevant to the required skills for project management,
research writing and research methods
? complete and submit an evaluation form. This provides an account of the
development of the main elements of students’ work, as well as a critical
reflection on what students have achieved and what lessons have been learned
? submit a final project report on which their assessment will be based.
The project report and the evaluation form must be submitted both as hard-copy
and online in an electronic format and may be screened by plagiarism detection
software.
Essential reading
Cornford, T. and S. Smithson. Project research in information systems. (London:
Macmillan, 2006) [ISBN 0333644212].
Oates, B. Researching information systems and computing. (London: Sage
Publications, 2006) [ISBN 141290224X].
All information in this document is subject to confirmation in the Programme Regulations for
degrees and diplomas in Economics, Management, Finance and the Social Sciences that are
reviewed annually. Notice is also given in the Regulations of any units which are being phased
out and students are advised to check unit availability.