MN- D019 MSC Business Project Module Handbook | Swansea University

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Group Expectations
3. Workshops and Additional Support Sessions
4. Supervisory Meetings
5. Learning Outcomes
6. Reading Material
7. Assessment
   Step 1: Pre-Recorded Group Presentation
   Step 2: MSc Group Business project
   Step 3: Individual Reflection
8. Submission
9. Notes on Style and Word Count
10. Extenuating Circumstances
11. Non-submission and Re-submissions
12. Good Academic Practice
13. Feedback
14. Submission Checklists
15. Appendices    45
        Appendix A: Supervision Meetings and Milestones
        Appendix B: Declaration and Statements
        Appendix C: Extension Request Form

Module Overview

1. Introduction

This module offers students the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills developed in MN-M595 Business Project Foundations. Specifically, students will be tasked with a real-world problem from industry partners and will have to apply the concepts learnt in Business Projects Foundations to complete the task. In groups, students will investigate these problems and project recommendations and solutions, based on a robust exercise in evidence gathering and critical analysis. The focus on this module is developing understanding of the workplace research process and how best this can be done. 

Students will continue to work in their pre-assigned groups from MN-M595 (unless specific issues were raised) to complete the project brief they were allocated in MN-M595. 

The business problem/opportunity will allow you to CONTINUE to apply the knowledge from your specialist modules to a specific business-related issue. This is a practical module and employers will look favourably on knowing you can apply theoretical knowledge to a practical real world business issue

All communications on the module including workshop lecture slides, support materials and announcements will be via CANVAS. 

This booklet contains: 

• an overview of the module 
• workshop information and supervisory information
• details of the core textbooks via the reading list
• information on assessment and feedback, including the business project briefs 

2.Group Expectations 

You would have been working in your allocated groups since the start of term 2. You will be continuing on in the same groups for term 3 for various reasons: 

• The large number of students on the module
• To make sure all students are allocated to complete the correct project
• You would have gone through your storming and norming phases, hopefully and are now able to work at your peak performance.
• You will remain in the group you were allocated until September 30th 2024.
• Your supervisor for MN-D019 will be allocated by the 31st May 2024. 
• You will be expected to please complete the following documents below in MN-D019 by the 21st June, which means you need to meet as a group before then to plan, ideally after the 10th June. 
• Upload these documents to your canvas group space
• Complete Belbin's team roles
• UPDATE and sign the group code of conduct – submit by 21st June
• If your group changes for any reason, please update the code of conduct. 
• Check you have submitted all relevant documents per the group documents checklist including an agenda, minutes and actions meeting template for each meeting.
• Complete presentation and ethics form – Submit by 19th   July
• Complete the project, and reflection  – Submit by 30th September
• Peer evaluation:  if your group have experienced severe problems during the term, or any social loafing (major lack of engagement from some students) then it is a requirement for your  group to complete the peer evaluation form (EVERY student needs to complete it).

What to do if you are having irreconcilable differences within your group. Email the module coordinator as a matter of urgency ONLY in the circumstance where it has developed into a non-functional team.  Disagreements within the team are part of the education and development process and you are expected to develop those skills during this process.  However, do contact the module coordinator in the case where differences are irriconcilable.

MN-D019 over 800+ students enrolled

3.Workshops and Additional Support Sessions

You will have four online prerecorded training sessions for this module which are  available for you to watch on canvas when released. 

Additional support sessions. You may choose to attend these in-person or online. Please see the online timetable for zoom links for the session indicated below

4.Supervisory Meetings

4.1 Supervisor Meetings

Students are required to be available for supervision IN-PERSON during the business project.

Each group will be allocated a supervisor, this will be confirmed via an email by the 31st May 2024.  Students are required to arrange four engagements with supervisors. These meetings will take place IN-PERSON. Supervision meetings will typically take place BETWEEN workshops 1, 2, 3 and 4. 

Supervision meetings normally last around 45 minutes – 1 hour.  
If you wish to have shorter but more regular meetings, you can negotiate this with your supervisor. 

Supervisors will then complete a supervision record on e-vision to provide comment as to what extent the student has met milestones for each engagement point.  The expected outcomes and topics for discussion at each engagement are outlined in Appendix A.  

We recommend your first meeting to take place after the 10th June 2024

You should be assigned to your supervisors by the 31st  May 2024, it is your responsibility as a group to arrange meetings with your supervisor.  

You would have an opportunity to discuss the projects with the project providers in the form of a webinar. We hope that you attended these and found the information valuable.  Do feedback to your supervisors what your experience of the engagement was.

4.1.1 Specific requirements for supervision meetings are: 

10th June 2024 – 16th September 2024

One supervision meeting is to be held during the months of June, July, August and September.  

This is a critical aspect of engagement and is compulsory for Tier 4 visa allocation and monitoring.

Please refer to the ‘Module Overview’ lecture slides on Canvas for detailed information on the role of your supervisor.
    
Swansea University has a policy on the supervision of Postgraduate Taught Masters students, which is available on the university website at:

http://www.swansea.ac.uk/academic-services/academic-guide/assessment-and-progress/supervision-policy/

4.1.2 Registration of Student Meetings

Meetings can be arranged as soon as supervisors have been allocated. Supervisors need to register each meeting using e-vision and the following link:

https://evision-swanseauniversity.msappproxy.net/urd/sits.urd/run/siw_lgn

For more details on supervision meetings and milestones see Appendix A.

4.2 Attendance and Absence 

Full-time students are required to be actively engaged and available for supervision during the business project.

The University will continue to monitor students’ engagement during the business project and will take relevant action involving those students whose engagement is deemed to be unsatisfactory. Supervisors will complete a monthly meeting record on e-vision to provide comment as to what extent the student has met milestones for each engagement point.  The expected outcomes and topics for discussion at each engagement are outlined in Appendix A.  

Students are expected to REMAIN in Swansea for the summer. If you would like to clarify this pertaining to your specific circumstances, then please contact tier4attendance@swansea.ac.uk 

Please remember if you miss an engagement without giving more than 24 hours’ notice, it is at the supervisor’s discretion as to whether they rearrange it. Please take into consideration that this may not be immediately following the previous meeting. 

The University cannot be held responsible for withdrawing a student for non-attendance where the student may have extenuating circumstances if these circumstances have not been made known to the School or the University.

5.Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module students should be able to:

1.Critique the role of knowledge and information in the workplace.
2.Demonstrate a critical awareness of issues relating to undertaking a business project
3.Critically evaluate, choose, and implement methodologies to appropriate business projects.
4.Explain the value and contribution of reflective practice
5.Extrapolate recommendations from research findings and demonstrate an ability to report findings to business partners.

Transferrable Skills

• Communication skills (written and verbal)
• Teamwork/building
• Problem solving
• Identification and evaluation of sources of data/information
• Planning and organisation
• Time management
• Responsibility and flexibility
• Critical thinking
• Reflexivity

6.Reading Material

Every effort has been made to provide the books and journals featured in the reading list for this module in digital and hard copy format via the library.  For more details of the resources available to support your studies, both on-line and in person, please consult the library services guide or watch this short recording by Subject Librarian, Naomi Prady.

https://libguides.swansea.ac.uk/management

The full reading list for this module is available via Canvas

The core textbooks for the module are: 

Doing Research in Business Management: an essential guide to planning your project (2nd Edition).by Mark Saunders and Philip Lewis. Pearson (2018).

Business Research Methods (4th Edition) by Alan Bryman and Emma Bell. Oxford University Press (2015)

Moon, J. (1999) Reflection in learning & professional development: theory & practice. Kogan Page London.

Jasper, M., Rosser, M., & Mooney, G. (2013). Professional development, reflection and decision-making in nursing and health care. Wiley & Sons, Chichester. 
 
https://efs.weblogs.anu.edu.au/files/2018/01/Moon-on-Reflective-Writing.pdf 
 
Bassot, B. (2020). The Reflective Journal. Red Globe Press/Macmillan Education Limited.
 
Costley, C., Elliott, G. and Gibbs, P. (2013). Doing Work-Based Research. SAGE: London.
 
Gray, D.E. (2020). Doing Research in the Business World (2nd Edition). SAGE: London

The following are also helpful books that cover the main areas in the module:

Easterby-Smith et al. (2018). Management and Business Research. SAGE: London.

Wilson NG and Elayne Coakes (2014). Business Research. Kogan Page London. 

Kloppenborg, T. J., Anantatmula, V. S., and Wells, K. N. (2019). Contemporary project management. 4th edition. Cengage Learning, Boston

Gido, J., Clements, J., and Baker, R. (2018) Successful Project Management. 7th edition. Cengage Learning, Boston

Journal articles will also be available in a folder on Canvas

A core textbook is only a starting point and provides introductory and background information only. Supplemental reading will be identified at each lecture. To achieve high marks in this module students will need to do the background and supplemental reading as well as conduct their own independent research for instance through the reading of academic journals, into the topics identified.

7. Assessment

The assessment for the module is structured as follows: 

Formative Assessment

• Code of Conduct: deadline  21st June by 2pm
• Peer Review form: deadline at 2:00pm on September 30th (only those with major group conflict issues should submit this form)

Summative Assessment

Step 1: 30% Pre-recorded Group Presentation via Turnitin on Canvas  - Deadline at 2:00pm on July 19th .    
Group Ethics form via Turnitin on Canvas  - Deadline at 2:00pm on July19th  (to be confirmed if Programme Director can submit this on students behalf) .    
 
Step 2: 40% Group business project of no more than 7,500 words - Deadline at 2:00pm on September 30th  

Step 3: 30% Individual Reflective Research Practice Portfolio of no more than 2,000 words - Deadline at 2:00pm on September 30th

7.1 Submission in Welsh

Any written work submitted as part of any assessment or examination may be submitted in Welsh, and that work submitted in Welsh will be treated no less favourably than written work submitted by you in English as part of an assessment or examination. 

7.2 Time Limits and Extensions

The expectation is that students will submit their Business project within the time-limit laid down by the regulation.  

For postgraduate students, the School operates a late penalty system of awarding zero marks for any late and/or incomplete submissions.

PLEASE NOTE: Students must ensure that their research can be completed in 3 months and should take note of public holidays both in the UK and overseas when drawing up their work plan. 

A candidate's time-limit may be extended by Swansea University in exceptional cases. It is the responsibility of the student to bring to the attention of their supervisor any foreseeable events which may interfere with their work and result in a possible extension request.

Extensions may be granted on compassionate grounds, in cases of illness, serious domestic difficulties, or inordinate professional commitments (part-time students only) which can be demonstrated to have adversely affected a candidate's ability to complete within the stipulated period. A full and reasoned case, supported by appropriate medical or other independent evidence, must be made by the School for the consideration of Swansea University.
  
Students who request an extension on such grounds must complete the official Extension Request Form in Appendix C. A clear statement must be supplied, showing that the School concerned has evaluated the situation in which the candidate finds him/herself as a result of the illness or other circumstance (including covid-19 related issues) and that it considers the requested extension to be appropriate.  Such a statement will, wherever possible, follow contact between the candidate and the School.

Step 1: Pre-Recorded Group Presentation

The first assignment of this module is a pre-recorded group presentation and ethics form worth 30% of the module mark. 

This assignment is split into two key components:

Part 1: Pre-recorded group presentation and associated slides
Part 2: Group ethics form

Part 1: Pre-recorded group presentation and slides brief

This group assignment will allow you to demonstrate the progress you have made in planning what you have done for the project so far and your approach to delivering the outcomes that were outlined in your project brief. 

This interim presentation can draw upon the content from your proposal for MN-M595 and the new work you should have done since. 

The assignment will be a 15-minute pre-recorded presentation and upload it to canvas with a separate session for Q and A. 

The Q and A session should be arranged IN-PERSON with your supervisor no later than 2 weeks post submission (19th July – 02nd August). 

All students MUST appear in the presentation recording and MUST attend the group Q & A in person. 

• If students do NOT engage with the presentation – you will lose those marks (85% of grade/95% if you also do not engage with the Q&A). 
• If students engage in the presentation but DO NOT engage in the IN-PERSON Q & you will be allocated 10% less (as per the marking rubric below) for the presentation mark. 

Presentation Structure

Your presentation should contain information on the following:

• Project Summary including 1 CLEAR AIM, associated objectives, tasks and activities 
• Supporting Academic Literature
• Current Progress
• Obstacles to progress
• Methodology – how do you intend to find the answers to the problem/opportunity faced by the company
• Future Project Timeline 

A more comprehensive structure will be available on Canvas. 

Part 2: Group ethics form ( this is not needed for your submission)

The School of Management and wider University have a Research Ethics Policy that applies to all research undertaken to make sure it complies with ethical guidelines. The policy is intended to cover work completed by undergraduates, postgraduates (taught and research), research staff and academic staff.

What is research integrity: ethics and governance? 

For a more comprehensive overview of the ethical guidelines please see:   

• Research Ethics System

Ethical Review Process

1.Using the video provided on Canvas to help complete the online research ethics form.
2.The Research Ethics Form is accessed through your apps under the name ‘Research Ethics Applicant’. Go to My Applications 
3.Only ONE group member needs to complete this. There is the option to ADD all group members names/student numbers/e-mails within the application. 
4.The icon will look like this:

You MUST include the ethics approval document in your dissertation. 

Ethical Considerations

• You must have received research ethics clearance via the online system, or if necessary the schools ethics committee, before engaging in any research activities. 
• Primary data collection should be carried out in accordance with the University guidelines on COVID-19 at all times and should be adapted to reflect any changes to these guidelines as they arise.
• You are expected to behave to the highest professional standard that maintains your integrity and the school’s reputation.
• Make sure that your respondents know that you are going to keep their identity confidential. If very sensitive data is involved, the university can establish a three-year ban on public access to your dissertation.
• You should not record telephone or online interviews without the explicit agreement of interviewee.
• All data should be anonymised and stored securely.

Students should note that Swansea University is not responsible for any processing by them of personal data for which Swansea University is not the data controller, even if the processing is carried out using Swansea University's equipment and facilities. Students are personally responsible for complying with the GDPR in regard to data for which they are the data controller. 

Student Handling of Personal Data

You may be required to provide your supervisor and the assessment team with a copy of your data should they request.

Submission – for more information see section 8

One group member should submit the following documents. Please remember to clearly include GROUP NUMBER IN SUBMISSION TITLE. 

• Group Presentation slides via Turnitin on Canvas (module MN-D019) by Friday 19th July ay 2pm 
• Group pre-recorded presentation via Speedgrader on Canvas (module MN-D019) by Monday 19th July ay 2pm
• Group Ethics form via Turnitin on Canvas (module MN-D019) by Monday 19th July at 2pm
• Individual reflective report by 30th September 2024, 2pm
• Business Project report by 30th September 2024, 2pm

Key Marking criteria will include (please see the following marking rubric for more details): 

• Initiative: Originality and Innovativeness of Solution
• Presentation Content: Relevance of information provided
• Presentation Structure
• References: Use of suitable sources to support the report
• Quality of Research: Evidence to support project 
• Purpose: Rationale behind presentation delivery
• Professionalism in terms of delivery 
  Response to questioning

Step 2: MSc Group Business project

The second coursework assignment for this module is a group assignment worth 40% of the overall module mark. 

COURSEWORK BRIEF

The Group Project Report should follow the structure below and will be based on the project brief your group have been provided. 

The word limit is 7,500 words so it needs to provide a concise overview of how you have planned, executed and delivered the project. There should be a clear indication of what has been achieved in relation to the objectives set in the project brief. There should also be clear recommendations on how the company can implement the proposed ideas and any shortcomings from your project and how it could be improved with more time. 

An outline structure is indicated on the next page. Bullet points can be used appropriately and you can cross reference to a table, spreadsheet, Gant chart or other planning tool. Your planning tool will not be included in the word count.

PLEASE NOTE: 

You would have completed a PROPOSAL for this work in term 2.  It is not the report but a proposal to suggest how you could achieve the objectives of your project.  The content should NOT be identical to that submitted for MN-M595. You are now doing the work that you proposed to do in term 2. It is perfectly fine to make changes to the proposal with your supervisors guidance where required.

It is poor academic practice to copy and paste therefore please do not do that here – it will result in a lower grade. 

Top Tips for Successful Report Writing

1. Use third person throughout
2. Use plenty of white space – reports do not look like an essay. They should have relevant heading and sub-headings and be page numbered with an excellent executive summary that can be cross referenced to the relevant section in the report.
3. Each new chapter /section should be given a number (1,2,3) or letter (A, B, C) and the subsequent sub-headings can be labelled 1.2, 1.2, etc
4. Begin each new chapter on a new page.
5. Use graphs, tables and pictures to illustrate your points.
6. It is acceptable to use bullet points in report writing (avoid writing in essay format)

Submission

You are required to submit your GROUP BUSINESS PROJECT via Turnitin on Canvas (module MN-D019) by Friday 30th September at 2 pm.  Use the filename MND019-GROUPNUMBER-STUDENTNUMBER

For more information on submission guidelines please see section 8. Submission

Word count

7,500 (not including tables, figures, appendices – please see section 9 for more detailed information

business Project report Structure

By following this outline, you can create a comprehensive and well-organised postgraduate-level business project report.

Title Page (which should be a Professional Business Project Report Cover page)

• Title of the project: 
• Group Name / number 
• Institution - Swansea University cover page
• Degree: MSc Management (include pathway if appropriate) 
• Student numbers of the group members
• The date of submission

Declarations and Statements 

• Found in the appendices of the handbook.
  Ethics Confirmation
• You will be provided an Ethical confirmation certificate which can be found on canvas. This needs to be inserted HERE. 
  Acknowledgements
• Saying thank you to people that have helped and supported you

Executive Summary

• Overview: Brief summary of the project, including objectives, methodology, key findings, and recommendations.
• Purpose: Explain the business problem or opportunity addressed.
• Key Results: Highlight the main findings.
• Recommendations: Summarize the key recommendations.

Table of Contents

• Headings and Subheadings: List all main sections and sub-sections with corresponding page numbers. 

Table of Figures and Tables

• List all the figures and tables with corresponding page numbers. 

MAIN report SECTIONS

1.Introduction
1.1.Background: Provide context and background on the business problem or opportunity 
1.2.Aim and Objectives: Clearly outline the goals of the project including the main project aim and objectives
1.3.Scope: Define the scope (what is included and excluded from the project) and limitations of the project. 
1.4.Project research Approach: The approach used to achieve the objectives.
2.Business Problem/Opportunity Analysis
2.1Problem Statement: Define the business problem or opportunity.
2.2Impact: Discuss the potential impact on the organization.
2.3    Goals: Outline the desired outcomes and success criteria.
3.Background Research
3.1.Situational Analysis - start with a PESTEL analysis to understand the macro-environment. Conduct a SWOT analysis to summarise internal and external factors.  Perform an internal analysis to evaluate the companies capabilities.  Integrate a market analysis to understand specific market dynamics. 
3.2.Relevant academic sources researched A brief summary of key findings from previous research in relevant and credible academic journals, case studies, books, market reports and relevant publications from accredited agencies and organisations.
4.Approach and process (Desk-based research)
4.1    Project Approach: Describe the approach taken to address the problem or opportunity.
4.2    Analysis Techniques and approaches: Outline the techniques used to analyze the data.
4.3    Work Plan: Provide an overview of the project work plan and timelines.
4.4    Ethical concerns and ethical procedures at the School of Management, Swansea University.
5.Findings
5.1.Introduction Reiterate the aims and objectives. Provide a very brief overview of the approach used to achieve the objectives.
5.2.Analysis: Present your analysis, including themes, trends. Use charts, graphs, and tables to illustrate key points.
5.3.Discussion – interpret your findings in the context of your objectives
5.4.Key Findings: Summarize the main findings relevant to the project objectives
6.Recommendations
Strategic Recommendations: Provide actionable recommendations based on the findings.
7.Implementation
7.1.Action Plan: Provide a detailed action plan for implementing the recommendations.
7.2.Timeline: Include a timeline with milestones and deadlines.
7.3.Resources: Identify the resources required for implementation (e.g., personnel, budget, technology).
7.4.Risk Management: Discuss potential risks and mitigation strategies.
8.Evaluation and Monitoring
8.1.Success Metrics: Define the metrics and KPIs to measure the success of the implementation.
8.2.Monitoring Plan: Outline a plan for ongoing monitoring and evaluation.
9.Conclusion
9.1.Summary: Recap the key findings and recommendations.
9.2.Impact: Discuss the potential impact of the project on the organization.
9.References
Use APA style to  list of all the sources cited in the report.

APPENDIX SECTION

10.Appendices

• Group Planning documents (10% no word count)
  oCompleted and signed group code of conduct
  oGantt chart of project tasks including what each group member is doing
  oAttendance list for each group meeting 
  oRoles and Responsibilities – including your Belbin team roles 
  oAgenda, short minutes and actions, (please use the template provided for each meeting)
  Further points:
• Additional information referred to in the main report should be referred to in this section.
• Each section in bold in the above structure should start on a new page to provide a professional look to the report.
• Try to avoid splitting tables and diagrams/images over multiple pages – you can turn specific pages to landscape to provide a better presentation of the information in the table. The rubric below is an excellent example of this.  

Marking Criteria

• Executive Summary - 
• Introduction- background, aims and objectives of the project including the scope and research approach
• Business Problem/Opportunity Analysis - describing the problem/opportunity the impact and the goals of the project.
• Background Research - providing background research for the project to provide a context, using situational analysis and relevant academic literature
• Approach and process – describing the approach the project will take to achieve the objectives, the analysis techniques used, the work plan and timelines and any ethical concerns.
• Findings - provide a very brief overview of the approach used to achieve the objectives, summarize the key findings from the sources reviewed, present your analysis, including themes, trends. Use charts, graphs, and tables to illustrate key points, interpret your findings in the context of your objectives, summarize the main findings relevant to the project objectives
• Recommendations - Provide actionable recommendations based on the findings.
• Implementation- Provide a detailed action plan for implementing the recommendations, Include a timeline with milestones and deadlines, identify the resources required for implementation (e.g., personnel, budget, technology), discuss potential risks and mitigation strategies.
• Evaluation and Monitoring - Define the metrics and KPIs to measure the success of the implementation. Outline a plan for ongoing monitoring and evaluation.
• Conclusion - Recap the key findings and recommendations. Discuss the potential impact of the project on the organization.
• References - Use APA style to list of all the sources cited in the report.
• Quality of writing - good writing skills evidenced by very little to no spelling or grammatical errors, messages clearly present the aims of the project.
• Presentation - professionally presented business project, using visuals where appropriate
• Groupwork and group documentation – good teamwork is important, hence evidence of this via the group documentation is important Group planning documents 
• Completed and signed group code of conduct
• Gantt chart of project tasks including what each group member is doing
• Attendance list for each lecture, seminar and group meetings 
• Roles and Responsibilities – including your Belbin team roles 
• Agenda, minutes and actions documents 
• Quality of writing: Readability and ability to convey key message(s) concisely in a logical manner within each section.
• Quality of Presentation: A clearly structured report that is easy for the reader to follow.  Headings are used to set out the sections.

Step 3: Individual Reflection

The third coursework assignment for this module is an individual assignment worth 30% of the overall module mark. 

Coursework Brief 

Using the Gibbs Reflective Cycle (1988) as shown and supported by Reflective Writing by J Moon) you are expected to develop a reflection of your positive and negative experiences associated with completing the Business Project.

Please FOCUS your reflection on the following elements:

• Time management
• Group engagement, communication and performance
• Completion of the aim and objectives

The individual reflection provides an opportunity for you to look back on the business project and consider the progress made over the course of the module. 

As part of the reflection, you need to consider what actions could have been taken and would need to be taken if you experienced a similar situation in the future. 

Word count = 2,000

Submission

You are required to submit your INDIVIDUAL REFLECTION Turnitin on Canvas (module MN-D019) by 30th September at 3pm

For more information on submission guidelines please see section 8. Submission. 

Key Marking criteria will include: 

• Description – description of the issue or experience (critical incident) that you are reflecting on.
• Feelings – explanation of your thoughts and feelings on your chosen experience 
• Evaluation – evaluative discussion on what was both beneficial and detrimental about the experience. 
• Analysis – that identifies honest insights into the underlying root cause of the issue or difficulty, related to supporting theory and examples from practice.
• Conclusion – which identifies multiple options for improving practice in the future. These are evaluated as to the extent to which they address the root causes of difficulty identified in the analysis section and clear options chosen to take forward.
• Action Plan – detailed action plan and outstanding feed-forward which commit the learner to tangible actions and improvements in a given timeframe. 
• Quality/Scope of Literature Review: use and referencing of established knowledge to inform the evaluation and analysis of the critical incident, problem, or issue, as well as identify options for improvement. 
• Understanding: Assignment demonstrates students have understood key topics and reflective practice
  Readability - ability to convey key message(s) concisely in each of the key areas listed above

8. Submission

There are different submission deadlines for the different assignments of the Business Projects Module. These can be seen above in relation to the different assignments. 

Overall, the following items should be submitted for fulfilment of the MN-D019 Business Projects Module

The following requirements must be adhered to:
 
1.One electronic copy of your GROUP CODE OF CONDUCT must be submitted for examination to the University via Canvas (module MN-D019) by 21st June at 2 pm – this will only be reviewed in the event of group issues.

2.One electronic copy of your GROUP PRESENTATION SLIDES must be submitted for examination to the University via Canvas (module MN-D019) by 19th July at 2 pm

3.One electronic copy of your PRE-RECORDED GROUP PRESENTATION must be submitted for examination to the University via Canvas (module MN-D019) by 19th July at 2 pm

4.One electronic copy of your GROUP ETHICS FORM must be submitted for examination to the University via Canvas (module MN-D019) by 19th  July at 2 pm (to be confirmed if Programme Director can submit this on the students behalf)

5.One electronic copy of your GROUP BUSINESS PROJECT must be submitted for examination to the University via Canvas (module MN-D019) by 30th September at 2 pm

6.One electronic copy of your INDIVIDUAL REFLECTION must be submitted for examination to the University via Canvas (module MN-D019) by 30th September at 2 pm

7.ONLY IN THE EVENT OF ISSUES: One electronic copy of your INDIVIDUAL PEER REVIEW FORM must be submitted for examination to the University via Canvas (module MN-D019) by 30th September at 2 pm.

8.Students must ensure that their Group Business Project and Individual Reflection includes the required signed Declarations and Statements form (Appendix B).

Failure to meet the submission requirements set out in points 2-6 above will result in a mark of 0 and work classified as an incomplete submission. No further re-submission opportunities will be available to submissions that are deemed to be incomplete.

7.When your submission has been successful you will be given a submission receipt. You must keep a note of this, either by saving it or taking a screenshot. If there are any problems with your submission, we will need this before we can resolve them. 

8.Students may be required to submit a copy of their data upon request by their supervisors or the assessment team. 

Plagiarism detection software will be used to check your report, and any unfair practices will be dealt with strictly. Information about unfair practice can be found in the University’s Academic Guide available at:

9.www.swan.ac.uk/registry/academicguide/assessmentandprogress/unfairpracticeprocedure/1definitionofunfairpractice/

10.For postgraduate students, the School operates a late penalty system of awarding zero marks for any late submissions.

11.Business projects which are of particular relevance to Wales or Celtic Studies may be deposited in the University Library (copies retained by Swansea University may be decommissioned after one year).

If you have any queries regarding your submission, please contact the assessments team within the School of Management Reception or e-mail at the assessment team

Digital Submission of Coursework Instructions

• Log on to Canvas.
• Access the appropriate Course site from your dashboard. 
• Click the Assignments menu button which appears on the left of the screen.
• Click on the relevant assignment for submission.
• In this page you will see a file entitled ‘Submission coversheet’.  You need to complete this form and incorporate it as the first page of your coursework (not two separate files). 
• Please read the statement of originality before you click ‘Upload Submission’. 
• By submitting work you are agreeing to this statement and confirming it to be true. 
• Click ‘Choose File’ to select your assignment file. 
• Click ‘Upload and Review’ to upload your assignment. 
• Click to finalise your submission

You will then see a message saying “Submission Complete” 

9. Notes on Style and Word Count

Assignments are a critical part of the learning experience and development for scholars at Swansea University.  Practice will pay dividends when it comes to honing your skills in report and essay writing. Students are therefore encouraged to submit the highest quality work they can to reach their maximum potential. Students with concerns about how to present their work can consult with the Module Co-ordinator for guidance in addition to the notes listed below:

Group Presentation

Assignments are a critical part of the learning experience and development for scholars at Swansea University.  Practice will pay dividends when it comes to honing your skills in report and essay writing. Students are therefore encouraged to submit the highest quality work they can to reach their maximum potential. Students with concerns about how to present their work can consult with the Module Co-ordinator for guidance in addition to the notes listed below:

The maximum word limit for the main assignment (excluding tables, contents page, footnotes, charts, graphs, figures but including in-text references) is 2000 words. The word count must be stated in the assignment cover sheet. 

Markers will stop marking once the word count [or time limit] limit has been reached, likely leading to a reduced overall mark as key arguments or conclusions will not be included in the marked work. 

Students who submit work that is below the word limit will not be penalised. This is because students will not have taken full advantage of the word limit available to them, which in itself may constitute a penalty.

The assignment should be in extended essay format (i.e. use headings/sub-headings). Full academic referencing using the Harvard APA (7th Edition) [note that we are working to 7th edition from AY 20-21 onwards] referencing style should be used throughout the assignment. Guidance on how to reference using the APA style can be found at:

APA Referencing Guide: https://libguides.swansea.ac.uk/APA7Referencing

To gain higher marks students are required to show analysis and reflection rather than simple description. They should use multiple sources of academic literature to frame and justify their analysis. All sources should be correctly identified - students are reminded the University enforces strict penalties for plagiarism (up to and including withdrawal from the University). 

Correct English spelling and grammar should be used at all times. Students who have been formally diagnosed with specific learning difficulties (SpLD) and assessed by the Disability Office should indicate ‘SpLD’ on the Student Declaration form included with their coursework submission.  

Video, Audio or other Assessment Types

For some assessments students may be required to submit a video, audio or other digital media item. The University’s overarching privacy policy advises students that the University will collect photographs and video recordings for the purpose of recording lectures, student assessment and examinations. This processing and storage of this information is lawful as it is necessary for the performance of a contract with the student and will apply to any personal data that we process for the purposes of administering and delivering their course of study.

Proof Reading

Please be aware of the university’s Proof Reading policy which sets outs what the university considers to be good academic practice in relation to proof reading. The School of Management allows proof reading but please be aware of the requirements around this including keeping an evidence trail relating to any proof reading and whether it is formal or informal. Further information can be found here.

Group Business Project

Assignments are a critical part of the learning experience and development for scholars at Swansea University.  Practice will pay dividends when it comes to honing your skills in report and essay writing. Students are therefore encouraged to submit the highest quality work they can to reach their maximum potential. Students with concerns about how to present their work can consult with the Module Co-ordinator for guidance in addition to the notes listed below:

The word limit is 7,500 words; this is a maximum limit and is for the main text. 

The word limit does NOT include: 

• Title page
• Declarations and Statements
• Ethical Approval Certificate
• Acknowledgements
• Contents Page
• List of Tables
• Figures
• References
• Appendices

The word count must be stated in the assignment cover sheet. 

Markers will stop marking once the word count [or time limit] limit has been reached, likely leading to a reduced overall mark as key arguments or conclusions will not be included in the marked work. 

Students who submit work that is below the word limit will not be penalised. This is because students will not have taken full advantage of the word limit available to them, which in itself may constitute a penalty.

The assignment should be in extended essay format (i.e. use headings/sub-headings). Full academic referencing using the Harvard APA (7th Edition) [note that we are working to 7th edition from AY 20-21 onwards] referencing style should be used throughout the assignment. Guidance on how to reference using the APA style can be found at:

APA Referencing Guide: https://libguides.swansea.ac.uk/APA7Referencing

To gain higher marks students are required to show analysis and reflection rather than simple description. They should use multiple sources of academic literature to frame and justify their analysis. All sources should be correctly identified - students are reminded the University enforces strict penalties for plagiarism (up to and including withdrawal from the University). 

Correct English spelling and grammar should be used at all times. Students who have been formally diagnosed with specific learning difficulties (SpLD) and assessed by the Disability Office should indicate ‘SpLD’ on the Student Declaration form included with their coursework submission.  

Video, Audio or other Assessment Types

For some assessments students may be required to submit a video, audio or other digital media item. The University’s overarching privacy policy advises students that the University will collect photographs and video recordings for the purpose of recording lectures, student assessment and examinations. This processing and storage of this information is lawful as it is necessary for the performance of a contract with the student and will apply to any personal data that we process for the purposes of administering and delivering their course of study.

Proof Reading

Please be aware of the university’s Proof Reading policy which sets outs what the university considers to be good academic practice in relation to proof reading. The School of Management allows proof reading but please be aware of the requirements around this including keeping an evidence trail relating to any proof reading and whether it is formal or informal. Further information can be found here.

Formatting 

Character or Print Height

Text-size would be equivalent to 12pt Times New Roman.  (The size of text used in this sentence.)  

Margins

Margins should be 4cm (1½ inches) wide on the left-hand side and 2cm (¾ inch) on the right-hand side.

Line Spacing 

Double or one-and-a-half line spacing should be used in the main text.  However, single spacing should be used in the abstract and in any indented quotations and footnotes.

Page Numbering

Pages in the Business project should be numbered sequentially.  Page numbers should be placed top-right or bottom centre.

Individual Reflection

Assignments are a critical part of the learning experience and development for scholars at Swansea University.  Practice will pay dividends when it comes to honing your skills in report and essay writing. Students are therefore encouraged to submit the highest quality work they can to reach their maximum potential. Students with concerns about how to present their work can consult with the Module Co-ordinator for guidance in addition to the notes listed below:

The word limit is 2000 words; this is a maximum limit and is for the main text. 

The word limit does NOT include: 

• Title page
• Declarations and Statements
• Acknowledgements
• Contents Page
• List of Tables
• Figures
• References
• Appendices

The word count must be stated in the assignment cover sheet. 

Markers will stop marking once the word count [or time limit] limit has been reached, likely leading to a reduced overall mark as key arguments or conclusions will not be included in the marked work. 

Students who submit work that is below the word limit will not be penalised. This is because students will not have taken full advantage of the word limit available to them, which in itself may constitute a penalty.

The assignment should be in extended essay format (i.e. use headings/sub-headings). Full academic referencing using the Harvard APA (7th Edition) [note that we are working to 7th edition from AY 20-21 onwards] referencing style should be used throughout the assignment. Guidance on how to reference using the APA style can be found at:

APA Referencing Guide: https://libguides.swansea.ac.uk/APA7Referencing

To gain higher marks students are required to show analysis and reflection rather than simple description. They should use multiple sources of academic literature to frame and justify their analysis. All sources should be correctly identified - students are reminded the University enforces strict penalties for plagiarism (up to and including withdrawal from the University). 

Correct English spelling and grammar should be used at all times. Students who have been formally diagnosed with specific learning difficulties (SpLD) and assessed by the Disability Office should indicate ‘SpLD’ on the Student Declaration form included with their coursework submission.  

Video, Audio or other Assessment Types

For some assessments students may be required to submit a video, audio or other digital media item. The University’s overarching privacy policy advises students that the University will collect photographs and video recordings for the purpose of recording lectures, student assessment and examinations. This processing and storage of this information is lawful as it is necessary for the performance of a contract with the student and will apply to any personal data that we process for the purposes of administering and delivering their course of study.
https://www.swansea.ac.uk/media/Student-Data-Protection-Statement-18-19.pdf

Formatting 

Character or Print Height

Text-size would be equivalent to 12pt Times New Roman.  (The size of text used in this sentence.)  

Margins

Margins should be 4cm (1½ inches) wide on the left-hand side and 2cm (¾ inch) on the right-hand side.

Line Spacing 

Double or one-and-a-half line spacing should be used in the main text.  However, single spacing should be used in the abstract and in any indented quotations and footnotes.

Page Numbering  

Pages in the Business project should be numbered sequentially.  Page numbers should be placed top-right or bottom centre.

Proof Reading

Please be aware of the university’s Proof Reading policy which sets outs what the university considers to be good academic practice in relation to proof reading. The School of Management allows proof reading but please be aware of the requirements around this including keeping an evidence trail relating to any proof reading and whether it is formal or informal. Further information can be found here.

10. Extenuating Circumstances

Extenuating Circumstances are defined as serious and acute problems or events which are beyond your control or ability to foresee which may have affected your performance and/or may have impeded your ability to complete or submit an assessment on time.

If you feel you are dealing with extenuating circumstances please contact your supervisor, the assessments team (assessment-management@swansea.ac.uk) who will be able to discuss the extenuating circumstances process with you. 

If you require an extension to your business project please complete the form in Appendix C. 

11. Non-submission and Re-submissions

Any students who fail the Directed Independent Learning element, will automatically be eligible for one attempt to resubmit (capped) in line with current academic regulations and time limits set out below. Any additional University fees incurred will be waived.

If a student chooses not to submit a 1st attempt then they will not be eligible to resubmit. 

Please see the following link for the Flexible Postgraduate Taught Masters Safety Net Regulations.

Resubmission Guidance

• Where students need to redeem failure on this module, they will be expected to resubmit the largest individual portion of work. In the case of MN-D019 Business Projects this is the Individual Reflective Portfolio.
• There will be an increased word count and additional guidelines when resubmitting the Individual Reflective Portfolio to take into account the fact it will be redeeming the failure of the entire module.
• To redeem failure students would be expected to complete an individual report (12,000 words) encompassing both the reflective and project elements of the module. Clear structure and guidance would be available in the handbook as to how failure can be redeemed. This would involve:

oStep 1: A review of the feedback on their own project compared against another project that has passed. What are the similarities, differences, what is better in their project and vice versa? Students should also make sure they focus on the reasons where both projects could be improved. They need to clearly focus on the feedback provided by the marker. 

oStep 2: Reflect and discuss what they learnt when completing each of the assignments in relation to:

• Understanding the project brief
• The data collection approach
• Working as a group
• Working independently
• Any other relevant issues 

oStep 3: Develop an updated proposal considering the comparisons conducted in step 1 and the feedback from step 2. The structure of the proposal should be as follows: 

• Introduction (500 words)
• Literature Review (1,500 words)
• Methodology (1,000 words)
• Recommendations (1,000 words)
• Word count for Resubmission – 12,000 words
  oStep 1 – 5,000 words
  oStep 2 – 3,000 words
  oStep 3 – 4,000 words 
• Student resubmitting on this module are entitled to one formal feedback session with their supervisor including written feedback on the reasons for failure.
• Students are expected to contact their supervisors to arrange this meeting.
• Your supervisor should ensure that feedback reflects all comments from the Examiners (Internal and External) and that you are informed of the necessary changes required.  
• Students resubmitting their business project shall be considered as enrolled resubmitting.  Full-time students will be expected to be available for supervision during the resubmission period.
• For September Entry students the resubmission period will be from the release of marks following the Exam Board in November and submission point would be February.
• For January Entry students the resubmission period will be from the Exam Board following the completion of all taught elements so February and the submission point will be May.
• If you have failed this module, you will be contacted by the assessment team to provide you exact details on the resubmission guidelines and resubmission period. 

You will NOT be eligible to graduate until you have passed the resubmission of this module and there is option to resubmit early

12 Good Academic Practice

Academic integrity is fundamental to the values promoted by Swansea University. It is important that all students are judged on their ability, and that no student is allowed unfairly to take an advantage over others, to affect the security and integrity of the assessment process, or to diminish the reliability and quality of the qualification awarded.

Academic misconduct is to commit any act where a student may obtain an unpermitted advantage for themselves or another. This can relate to any form of assessed work including:

• Open book examination taken on-line
• A piece of coursework
• Any form of assessment undertaken in pursuit of an academic or professional qualification at Swansea University.

Academic misconduct can be committed on an individual or group basis.

There are different types of academic misconduct including:

• Plagiarism 
• Collusion 
• Commissioning 

The University takes academic misconduct very seriously and it can have a detrimental effect on your results as where academic misconduct is found to have taken place penalties will be applied. 

Students should note that a claim of ignorance of the University’s expectations on good academic practice is not an acceptable defence to an allegation of academic misconduct.

Self-plagiarism is the copying of work that was originally completed and submitted by the student and resubmitted for another purpose, without acknowledgement.  While self-plagiarism is not considered as academic misconduct by the University it is treated as poor academic practice by the School and this is reflected in the marks awarded. 

How can students learn about good academic practice?

At the start of term the library offers induction sessions for new and continuing students.  These include a complete guide to academic referencing and details of further training such as EndNote.  

You can also access information on good academic practice through the Academic Success Programme at http://www.swansea.ac.uk/asp/ 

A short course on good academic practice can be found on a Canvas site called ‘Academic Integrity’ found under ‘My Studies’, listed under the ‘My Organisations’ section. Following completion of the self-directed learning, there is an online quiz (takes about 5 minutes), which assess your level of understanding of the learning material. You can revisit the training material and retake the quiz as many times as you wish.

Full information on Academic Misconduct can be found at http://www.swansea.ac.uk/academic-services/academic-guide/assessment-and-progress/academic-misconduct-procedure/

13 Feedback

• Final Feedback will be available on Canvas following the release of marks in November. Please contact the student that submitted the work for a copy of the feedback.
• You will receive ongoing feedback on this module during each meeting when you meet your supervisor.
• You will also receive feedback on your pre-recorded group presentation with 2 calendar weeks of submission. If this does not happen please contact assessment-management@swansea.ac.uk and myself Sam Buxton s.l.buxton@swansea.ac.uk as a matter of urgency.
• Some supervisors may request that you send work in advance, so they have a chance to review it before discussion in the meetings.

14. Submission Checklists

Group Presentation

DOES YOUR GROUP PROJECT PRESENTATION INCLUDE THESE THINGS?

Please complete this checklist:

• Title Slide – including title (business project), word count, names, student numbers, pathway, group name/number, month and year of submission
• Project Summary including 1 CLEAR AIM, associated objectives, tasks and activities
• Supporting Academic Literature
• Current Progress
• Obstacles to progress
• Methodology – how do you intend to find the answers to the problem/opportunity faced by the company
• Future Project Timeline Interpretation of the business problem/opportunity
• References (and in-text citations of the referenced work)
• Group Project Presentation slides to be submitted electronically via Canvas by  19h  July at 2pm.
• Group Project Presentation  recording to be submitted electronically via Canvas by  19th  July at 2pm.
• Group ETHICS form to be submitted electronically via Canvas by 19th  July at 2pm (to be confirmed if programme director can submit on your behalf)

Group Business Project

DOES YOUR GROUP BUSINESS PROJECT INCLUDE THESE THINGS?

Please complete this checklist:

• Title Page – including title (business project), word count, name, student number, pathway, group name/number, month and year of submission
• Declarations and Statements – signed and dated 
• Ethics Approval Certificate
• Acknowledgements
• Executive Summary
• Contents Page 
• Introduction
• Literature Review 
• Methodology 
• Results
• Risk Analysis and mitigation
• Evaluation
• Conclusion 
• Recommendations 
• References (and in-text citations of the referenced work)
• Appendices to include the following 
• Business project to be submitted electronically via Canvas by 30th  September at 2pm.
• ONLY IF GROUP ISSUES: Individual peer review form to be submitted electronically via Canvas by 30th  September at 2pm.

Individual Reflection

DOES YOUR INDIVIDUAL REFLECTIVE RESEARCH PORTFOLIO INCLUDE THESE THINGS?

Please complete this checklist:

• Title Page – including title, word count, name, student number, pathway, month and year of submission
• Declarations and Statements – signed and dated 
• Acknowledgements
• Main body Chronological critical reflection
• Business project to be submitted electronically via Canvas by 30th  September at 2pm.

15 Appendices 

• Appendix A: Supervision Meetings and Milestones    46
• Appendix B: Declaration and Statements    48
• Appendix C: Extension Request Form    50