| Category |
Dissertation |
Subject |
Education |
| University |
University of Liverpool |
Module Title |
ULMS576 Research Methods in Practice |
| Word Count |
2800 Words |
| Assessment Title |
Module Handbook |
| Academic Year |
Semester 1, 2025-26 |
ULMS576 Table of Contents
- Module Information
- Module Leader and Contact Details
- Module Aims and Learning Outcomes
- How Will this Module Develop my University of Liverpool Management School (ULMS) Graduate Skills?
- Teaching and Learning Strategies – How Will this Module be Delivered?
- Teaching Programme*
- Assessment Strategy – How Will this Module be Assessed?
- Individual Research Proposal (2,800 words, 50%)
- Group Presentation (20-25 minutes, 50%)
- Feedback to Students - How Will I Receive Feedback on this Module?
- How Can I Feedback my Views on this Module?
- Reading for this Module
- Other Important Library Information
- APPENDIX A: THE UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL MANAGEMENT SCHOOL’S (ULMS) GRADUATE –
- LEARNING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
ULMS576 Module Aims and Learning Outcomes
This module aims to:
- Promote analytical thinking: Encourage critical thinking and analytical capabilities necessary for drawing insights from complex data.
- Develop applied research skills: Equip students with the practical skills to conduct, analyse, and interpret marketing research using current methodologies and tools.
- Cultivate data storytelling abilities: Train students to translate research findings into compelling data narratives tailored to diverse audiences.
- Enhance collaborative learning: Provide opportunities for students to work alongside industry partners, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
- Strengthen decision-making skills: Foster the ability to make data-driven decisions by identifying and evaluating relevant market research insights.
Learning Outcomes (LOs):
- LO1: Students will be able to evaluate and design comprehensive marketing research practices.
- LO2: Students will be able to critically analyse and interpret data to generate actionable insights.
- LO3: Students will be able to communicate data-driven insights effectively, employing data visualisation and storytelling techniques.
- LO4: Students will be able to appraise current academic and practitioner issues and collaborate in teams to complete research projects in partnership with real life examples
- LO5: Students will be able to critique and apply data-supported recommendations for strategic marketing decisions.
- LO6: Students will be able to evaluate and critique the ethical implications of marketing decisions and their impact on society, culture, and the environment.
- LO7: Students will be able to critique and apply theoretical marketing models and frameworks to analyse and inform marketing research decisions.
How Will this Module Develop my University of Liverpool Management School (ULMS) Graduate Skills?
This module helps you to develop the skills set out below:
|
S1
|
Problem Solving: Students will engage in both individual and group tasks designed to foster creative and analytical thinking for resolving managerial issues. These tasks will encourage students to integrate academic literature with practical applications, developing sophisticated, imaginative solutions in a service management context. Students will be able to translate research findings into practical, data-driven marketing strategies. |
|
S2
|
IT Literacy and Analytical Skills: Students will develop the ability to use data analysis software and visualisation tools effectively. Students will be able to present complex data in a visually appealing and interesting way. |
|
S3
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Ethical Awareness: Students will critically apply theoretical and practical tools to identify, analyse, and evaluate ethical issues in marketing research practices, integrating these insights into decision-making processes within diverse market environments. |
|
S4
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Leadership: Through group activities, students will learn to distinguish between the unique challenges of marketing research. Leadership tasks will focus on motivating teams, making research decisions, and guiding report writing and presentation. Students will be able to demonstrate teamwork and project management skills in applied research contexts. |
|
S5
|
Adaptability: Students will understand the related aspects of marketing practice and the dynamic, fast-paced nature of the business environment. Students will be open to the challenges this brings through the use of case studies, real-life examples, debates, and discussions. |
|
S6
|
Communication: Through tasks set in seminars, students will cultivate both verbal and non-verbal communication skills, including a critical awareness of how rich and complex research data can be translated into engaging narratives. Group discussions and presentations will also enhance clarity, persuasion, and active listening skills, and articulate complex insights through data storytelling. |
|
S7
|
Lifelong Learning: This module develops lifelong learning skills by blending marketing theory with practical tools and fostering critical thinking to engage thoughtfully in contemporary marketing debates and real-world applications. |
In addition, the Management School has identified a set of key skills which it expects students to develop throughout their studies. These are skills which are actively sought by employers, and which together form the “ULMS Graduate” (see appendix A at the end of this module guide).
Teaching and Learning Strategies – How Will this Module be Delivered?
The module will be delivered according to the following schedule:
| Week |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5
|
6
|
7
|
8
|
9
|
10
|
11
|
12
|
Total |
| Lecture (hours) |
0 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
1
|
1 |
1
|
14 |
| Seminar (hours) |
0 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
2
|
0 |
2
|
12 |
| Total |
0 |
4 |
2 |
3 |
1Appendix |
3 |
0 |
4 |
2 |
3
|
1 |
3
|
26 |
Note: “Enhance” Weeks take place in semester one, weeks 1 and 7. There will be no teaching in these weeks.
You will be given tasks/activities, so you need to come to the seminar prepared to discuss your ideas and review those of others. You are expected to participate actively in sessions, and student seminar presentations form an integral part of the input on this module. Discussion questions might be posted on Canvas, according to current affairs and issues that arise during the module.
You will be expected to undertake background and follow-up reading and to access materials via the web and the University’s Canvas network. Your private study hours should total around 174 hours for this module. Most communication and support for learning will be posted on Canvas. You should therefore access Canvas on a regular basis.
Please note that it is normal policy within the Management School for lectures (but not seminars) to be recorded. Although lectures are recorded, this is for the purposes of providing additional teaching and revision support and not as a substitute; on campus attendance is still expected at the scheduled times.
Registering Your Attendance
You are expected to attend all timetabled learning activities. Attendance is monitored and recorded by the Student Attendance Team in the Management School. As a postgraduate student, you are expected to be in Liverpool for the duration of your programme - this includes the dissertation/final project period.
For all timetabled seminars and lectures, you are required to register your attendance, in line with the University’s Student Attendance Policy, using the codes given to you by the lecturer delivering the session. You can only do this if you are present at the time of the activity. If you know you will not be able to attend your timetabled activities for a period of time (for example because you are unwell or if you need to attend an interview), you are required to request an approved absence.
Attending timetabled teaching activities can play a crucial part in your future academic success. Attending timetabled activities will also make it easier for you to become part of our vibrant learning community of staff and students. The University’s Student Attendance Policy sets out how we use attendance data to help ensure you receive the right support whenever you need it. Should the School have a concern about your attendance, you may be required to attend a meeting under one of the
stages in the Student Attendance Policy. If you have a query about attendance, please contact the
School’s Student Attendance Team by email: ulmsattend@liverpool.ac.uk.
Additional Support
At the Management School, we provide lots of additional support to help you with your studies, in conjunction with the University’s KnowHow programme. Examples include study skills sessions, support with maths and statistics, advice on academic writing, help with time management, referencing, and more. Your Canvas module and programme pages will provide up-to-date details on what is available.
Teaching Programme*
Teaching Schedule (Lectures)
| WEEK 1: ENHANCE WEEK (No teaching) |
| Date |
Duration |
Topic(s) |
|
| Monday 29th September |
2 hours |
- Introduction to Marketing Research
- Types and Purposes of Marketing Research in Different Industries
- Diving into Emerging Market Trends
|
|
| Monday 6th October |
2 hours |
- Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches to Marketing Research
|
|
| Monday 13th October |
1 hour |
‘Liverpool Feds’ Talk |
|
| Monday 20th October |
1 hour |
Secondary Data |
|
| Monday 27th October |
1 hour |
Reports, Secondary Data Sources, and Databases: Library Session by Liam Kaye |
|
| WEEK 7: ENHANCE WEEK (No teaching) |
| Monday 10th November |
2 hours |
Sampling, Data Collection, and Research Ethics
LinkedIn Session by Moira McCaul
|
|
| Individual Proposal Submission Deadline: Friday 14th November 2025, at 12:00 PM |
| Monday 17th November |
2 hours |
- Life of an Analyst: Mintel Talk by Emily Viberg
- Data Analysis and Visualisation
|
|
| Monday 24th November |
1 hour |
- Consumer Insights and Storytelling with Data
|
|
| Monday 1st December |
1 hour |
- Effective Reporting of Findings
|
|
| Monday 8th December |
1 hour |
- Making Strategic Marketing Decisions based on Findings
- Presentation Tips
|
|
| Presentation Day: Wednesday 10th December 2025. FULL DAY event |
Teaching Schedule (Seminars)
| Week |
Duration |
Seminar Activities/Exercises |
| Week 2 |
2 hours |
- Market and Consumer Trends
- Problem Definition
|
| Week 4 |
2 hours |
- Teamwork
- Identifying and Critiquing Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods
|
| Week 6 |
2 hours |
- Critiquing Secondary Data Sources
- Marketing Research in Different Industries
|
| Week 8 |
2 hours |
- Sampling and Research Ethics
- Using AI in Marketing Research
|
| Week 10 |
2 hours |
- Generating Consumer Insights from Qualitative and Quantitative Data
|
| Week 12 |
2 hours |
|
Please note that the teaching schedule was accurate at publication; minor changes may occur during the semester at the module leader’s discretion in response to unforeseen circumstances. Any updates, including changes to lecture content, will be announced on Canvas. If you have concerns, please contact the module leader, Dr Mohamed Maher, at Mohamed.Maher@liverpool.ac.uk.
ULMS576 Assessment Strategy – How Will this Module be Assessed?
Type(s) of Assessment and Weighting of the Assessment Components
Assessment for the module is 100% individual coursework. This comprises the following:
- Individual Research Proposal, 2,800 words (50% of the overall module grade)
- Group Presentation, 20-25 minutes (50% of the overall module grade)
Individual Research Proposal (2,800 words, 50%)
Assessment Task
You are working for a full-service marketing agency, and you have been asked to propose research methods that would work best for one of three innovative product ideas (detailed below). The agency wants to explore consumers’ potential use of, and attitude towards, the product/service innovation to identify consumer insights for an advertising campaign.
You are required to produce a market research proposal that considers the challenges and opportunities consumers may face when using the innovative product of your choice. To complete this task successfully, you will need to engage in market research and propose suitable research methods to collect and analyse data that can then generate key findings. Please assume that the marketing agency you work for has extensive knowledge of market research theory and is therefore looking for the application of such rather than a description of theory. In your proposal, please make sure to address the following points:
1. Give a brief description of your chosen product innovation
2. Identify which consumer trend(s) it is tapping into
3. Identify one or more target segments that the innovative product is relevant to (this can be broad, such as a specific age/gender demographic)
4. Use secondary data from different sources and databases (e.g., MINTEL/Statista/Euromonitor/IBISWorld, newspapers, business magazines and articles, journal papers) and identify two primary research methods (one qualitative and one quantitative) covered in the module that you would use to gain insights into the consumer segments’ potential use of, and attitudes towards, the product innovation of your choice
5. Describe how you would use your chosen methods and justify why you chose them (i.e., the relevance of the methods to your chosen product innovation)
Please choose ONLY ONE of the following product innovations and develop your market research proposal around it:
1. “Echo-Cart”: A shoppable audio app that lets listeners add items by voice during podcasts, radio, or music. A short chime signals the availability of the product, a simple “yes” adds the item, and checkout completes hands-free with a brief undo window. Users can switch between content-only and shopping-enabled modes and set spending caps, product categories, or brand exclusions to avoid accidental purchases. The app works across major brands and records digital shopping receipts, allows one-tap returns, and provides a private history view with search. User preferences include prompt frequency, quiet times, and data sharing options.
2. “Flow-Stay”: A hotel app for digital check-in and room selection that unlocks the door via Bluetooth. On entry the room loads a chosen scene such as Focus, Wind-down, or Family, adjusting lighting, temperature, blinds, sound, and scent with full in-app control. Identity is verified in-app before arrival. The digital key updates automatically if the booking changes, and a physical keycard remains available for low-battery or accessibility needs. Guests can request extras such as late checkouts, spa slots, baby cots, or workspace, and receive timely notifications when rooms are ready or services become available. Preferences are saved to the guest profile, so future visits feel familiar. The system shifts to energy-save mode when the room is empty.
3. “Fresh-Mat”: A thin, washable mat that sits under fruit or vegetables and senses humidity to estimate ripeness or spoilage risk, where a subtle LED shows green, amber, or red, and the app builds an eat-first list with quick recipe suggestions. Seasonal profiles help the mat interpret different produce types. Users can override estimates or mark items as cooked or frozen, so the system learns over time. Members of the same household share access through the app. Each member can log what they bought, set dietary preferences, and see a weekly waste score with simple summaries. The mat is wipe-clean, machine-washable, and powered by a small rechargeable unit. The app continues to track items even if the mat is charging, using recent readings and manual updates.
Your market research proposal should be structured as follows:
- Title page
- Executive Summary (200 words): A concise summary of what the proposal is about, the research methods used, and any recommendations and interesting insights identified.
- Table of Contents
- Introduction (400 words): Outlining key background information in relation to the product innovation of your choice, the consumer trend(s), and the target segment(s).
- Market Research (1,600 words):
a) Secondary Research (600 words):
A brief outline of the secondary data used and key secondary research findings. You are encouraged to use figures/graphs obtained from relevant databases and other credible sources, which you should also cite in the proposal.
You Must Use Secondary Data in the Proposal
b) Primary Research (1,000 words):
A detailed outline (and comparison) of two primary research methods (one qualitative and one quantitative) that you propose to use to investigate the product innovation, identifying which approach will be used, how, and why. Sampling should be considered within this section. You should discuss how participants will be selected and how many for the different research methods used (consider the use of tables to outline sample profiles such as age, gender, occupation, income, etc, where relevant). Ethical procedures and considerations should also be included here.
Data Analysis and Limitations (200 words): Proposed methods of analysing secondary and primary data and any limitations in terms of sampling, research methods used, etc…
Conclusions and Recommendations (400 words): Interesting insights identified based on your secondary research findings and what you would hope the primary research would achieve.
References: You should have references for any secondary data you have included and information you have used to justify research methods, limitations, sampling, etc… (e.g., use of core textbooks and relevant journal articles). Please use Harvard “Cite Them Right” referencing style. For more information, please visit this link.
Appendices (if needed): These may include research instruments, interview guides, and questionnaires to be distributed to your sample.
Submission
You must submit your work in a single document. You are strongly advised to submit earlier, if possible, to avoid any last-minute problems or complications. Work may be submitted at any time before the deadline.
- Upload to Canvas as a single PDF.
- File name: StudentID_only.pdf (e.g., 201234567.pdf).
- Anonymity: Blind marked. Please do not include your name anywhere in the document. Use Student ID only.
- Title page must show the title of your proposal, Student ID, and word count only.
- Please ensure that all pages are numbered and illustrations (e.g., tables, figures, graphs etc…)clearly labelled.
- Maximum wordcount: 2,800 words
- Submission Deadline: Friday 14 November 2025, at 12:00 PM
- This assessment carries a weighting of 50% of the overall module mark.
Here are some additional tips for submitting assignments in Canvas:
- Make sure you have completed all of the requirements for the assignment
- Read the instructions carefully before you start working on the assignment
- Save your work frequently as you are working on the assignment
- Double-check your work before you submit it
The following are NOT included in word counts:
- Reference Lists/Bibliographies and Question Titles
- Appendices/Footnotes - provided these have been used only when necessary. If appendices or footnotes are used excessively or contain material which should clearly be included in the main body of the essay/report, it is at the markers’ discretion to include these in the word count.
- Tables and Graphs - provided these have been imported from elsewhere (correctly referenced) and not produced by you.
- Cover Page/Front Page/Table of Contents
As well as the proposal itself, the following are included in word counts:
- Citations/Quotations - this includes the material paraphrased/quoted itself as well as the name, date, and page information
- Tables and Graphs - if they have been produced by you
- Executive Summaries - unless otherwise stated
ULMS576 Criteria for Assessment and Grade Bands for Assignment
| 90% - 100% |
Extremely thorough and authoritative execution of the brief. Containing evidence of significant independent research, reflective, perceptive, well-structured showing significant originality in ideas or argument, aptly focused, and very well written. Few areas for improvement. Potentially worthy of publication. |
| 80% - 89% |
Thorough execution of the brief, well-structured and clearly argued. Signs of originality and/or independent critical analytical ability. Supported by independent research, materials well utilised; well-focused and well-written, displays mastery of the subject matter and of appropriate theories and concepts. |
| 70% - 79% |
Good execution of the brief; well-focused, knowledgeable, strong evidence of reading beyond the basic texts, and displays a very good knowledge of the subject matter. Good critical grasp of relevant theories and concepts. |
| 60% - 69% |
Well-structured and well-focused answer with strong evidence of reading beyond the basic texts. Thorough in approach. Displays a good knowledge of the subject matter and, where appropriate, displays a sound grasp of relevant theories and concepts. The approach is generally analytical. |
|
50% - 59%
|
Competently structured answer, reasonably well-focused and comprehensive but tending to be descriptive in approach. Limited evidence of reading beyond the basic texts. May contain excessive use of quotations. |
| 40% – 49% |
Tending to rely entirely on lecture materials. Almost entirely descriptive in approach, limited knowledge and understanding of the subject matter displayed; partial and/or containing significant errors and/or irrelevancies, poorly structured. May contain excessive use of quotations. |
| 30% - 39% |
Inadequate execution of the brief. Highly partial and or containing serious errors; contents partly or substantially irrelevant, poorly structured. Displays little knowledge of the subject matter. May contain excessive use of quotations. |
| 0% - 29% |
Seriously inadequate execution of the brief. Failure to focus upon the question, seriously short or even devoid of theoretical underpinning, large sections irrelevant. May contain excessive use of quotations. |
Sections on the Assignment Feedback Form on Canvas
- Structure, style, and presentation
- Depth of understanding and critical analysis
- Quality of research and use of sources
- Areas for improvement
ULMS576 Group Presentation (20-25 minutes, 50%)
Assessment Task
You are working as a consultancy team for a real client: Liverpool Feds Women FC. Using secondary data, only your task is to design: 1) a professional, data‑informed sponsorship proposal tailored to Liverpool Feds, 2) provide a list of potential sponsor profiles and outreach strategies, and 3) offer creative ideas for sponsor engagement and activation. You will need to pitch this as a live presentation in groups of 5 members each in no more than 20 minutes. There will be up to 5 minutes for Q&A after each presentation. Your audience includes academics, club decision-makers, and prospective sponsors, so please make sure to keep the tone applied and professional. You may only use secondary data for this assessment. All presentations will take place on Wednesday, 10th December 2025. In your presentation, you must address the following areas:
1. Creative Sponsorship Packages
- What can the club offer sponsors beyond logos on kits? Articulate clear value propositions in your presentation.
- Define a package with indicative pricing (i.e., how much should the sponsor pay the club?). Justify the pricing with benchmarks. You need to conduct desk research and gather secondary data to provide a reasonable rationale for the pricing.
- Propose creative ideas for matchday activations, digital content collaborations, community engagement, and hospitality ideas.
2. Targeted Outreach Strategy
- Who should the club approach? Identify priority sponsor profiles and specify sectors and businesses that are aligned with the club’s values and audience.
- Map decisionmakers and channels for outreach. Outline sequencing and a contact plan.
3. Audience Insights and Engagement
- How can the club use available data (e.g., social media metrics, attendance patterns, local demographics) to tailor sponsorship deals/strategies?
- How can the club grow and diversify the audience to make sponsorships more attractive? include 2-3 actionable tactics.
Structure and Guidance
- In order to complete this task successfully you will need to engage in the marketing research process taught to you on the module.
- Open your presentation with a value statement: why partnering with Liverpool Feds Women FC makes commercial sense to the sponsor. What would potential sponsors gain from the sponsorship deal? Discuss the club’s values, ethos, culture, etc.…
- Use evidence throughout; cite sources on slides. Please use Harvard “Cite Them Right” referencing style. For more information, please visit this link.
- Include a simple outreach plan and an activation timeline, Gantt or roadmap acceptable.
- State any assumptions clearly and keep figures realistic and justified.
- Design for clarity: use legible charts, minimal text, strong visuals. Speaker notes can be used, but please try to minimise their use to the best of your ability.
Submission
You must upload your presentation slides before Presentation Day. The deadline for submitting your presentation slides is Tuesday, 9th December 2025, at 12:00 PM.
- Only one member from each group should upload the slides.
- Upload to Canvas as a single PDF or PPTX.
- File name: Group##.pdf or .pptx (e.g., Group3.pptx).
- Please include all group members’ names and Student IDs on the title slide
- Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission.
- The presentation carries a weighting of 50% of the overall module mark.
All presentations will be conducted in person on Wednesday, 10th December 2025. Groups will be allocated a specific time slot closer to the assessment deadline. All group members should be available and take part in the presentation at their assigned timeslots. Teamwork is key, so please make sure that you organise each member’s responsibilities carefully. The maximum duration for each presentation is 20 minutes, and there will also be up to 5 minutes for Q&A after that. The questions will be based on the information you have presented.
ULMS576 Criteria for Assessment and Grade Bands for Presentations
| 90% - 100% |
Engaging presentation involving good use of visual aids, clear introduction, delivery, and summary. Materials well organised. Time limits observed, responding to questions with courtesy and authority. Content well-focused upon the brief; evidence of research beyond basic texts and lecture materials, and the ability to use materials creatively and originally. Little scope for improvement. |
| 80% - 89% |
Engaging presentation involving good use of visual aids, clear. Time limits observed, responding to questions with courtesy and authority. Contents well-focused upon the brief. Evidence of research beyond basic texts and lecture materials, and the ability to use materials creatively and originally. Scope for minor improvement on one or more points. |
| 70% - 79% |
Generally engaging presentation involving good use of visual aids, clear introduction, delivery and summary. Materials well organised. Time limits observed, responding to questions with courtesy and authority. Contents generally appropriate and well-focused upon the brief. Evidence of research beyond basic texts and lecture materials. |
| 60% - 69% |
Generally satisfactory presentations involving clear introduction, delivery and summary and possibly supported by visual aids. Materials well- organised, time limits observed, responding to questions with courtesy. Contents generally appropriate, satisfactory focus upon the brief. Evidence of research beyond basic texts and lecture materials. |
| 50% - 59% |
Satisfactory presentation but slippage on one or more of the following points: introduction; delivery of main presentation and summary; appropriateness of visual aids; or general organisation of presentation including observance of time limits and dealing with questions. Presentation based mainly on basic texts and lecture materials. |
| 40% – 49% |
Barely satisfactory presentation involving weaknesses on one or more of the following points: introduction; delivery of main presentation and summary; use and appropriateness of visual aids; or general organisation of presentation including observance of time limits and dealing with questions. Presentation based mainly on basic texts and lecture materials. May be partial and may contain errors. |
| 30% - 39% |
Unsatisfactory presentation involving serious weaknesses on one or more of the following points: delivery of the main presentation and summary; use and appropriateness of visual aids; or general organisation of the presentation including observance of time limits and dealing with questions. Presentation based mainly upon lecture materials. May be partial and may contain errors. |
| 0% - 29% |
Highly unsatisfactory presentation, possibly involving complete failure to focus on the brief. Alternatively, it may involve serious and multiple weaknesses as regards introduction, delivery of main presentation and summary, use and appropriateness of visual aids, or general organisation of presentation, including observance of time limits and dealing with questions. Presentation based mainly upon lecture materials. May be partial and may contain errors.
|
Sections on the Assignment Feedback Form on Canvas
- Structure, style, and presentation
- Depth of understanding and critical analysis
- Quality of research and use of sources
- Areas for improvement
Submission Deadlines and Date of Return of Work to Students
Individual Research Proposal, 2,800 words
- The submission deadline for the individual research proposal is Friday, 14th November 2025 at 12:00 PM. You will receive feedback within 4 working weeks of the submission deadline.
Group Presentation, 20-25 minutes
- The submission deadline for the group slides is Tuesday 9th December 2025 at 12:00 PM. All group presentations will then take place on the following day, Wednesday, 10th December 2025 at a full day event. The schedule for presentations and timeslots assigned for each group will be posted on Canvas shortly before week 12, where all presentations will take place. You will receive feedback within 3 working weeks of the submission deadline.
- For the group presentation assessment, please note that you cannot participate in on-campus presentations remotely. In the event that a student does not attend an on-campus presentation (if a student fails to attend), they will receive a mark of 0, irrespective of the amount of work done on the project prior to the presentation. This will not affect the mark received by other group members.
- If for any reason you cannot attend your presentation on Wednesday, 10th December 2025, please contact the module leader, Dr. Mohamed Maher, by email at Mohamed.Maher@liverpool.ac.uk, providing an explanation for your inability to attend the presentation. Please also copy the ULMS Learning and Teaching Support Officers (ULMSLTSO@liverpool.ac.uk) into the email and attach any supporting documentation that represents evidence of your claim.
Module Marks: The two assessment components use the following scale, the pass mark being 50%:
- Distinction: 70% and above
- Merit: 60% - 69%
- Pass: 50% - 59%
- Fail: below 50%
Additional Considerations Policy
The University has an Additional Considerations Policy around submission of assessed work. This means that in exceptional circumstances, if you are ill or otherwise unable to submit your assessed work on time, you will have up to 7 calendar days to submit your work without penalty. Thereafter, any submission will receive a mark of zero. There is no sliding scale of penalties for late submission beyond the 7 calendar days.
If you have a disability or health condition and your Student Support Information Sheet (SSIS) includes an extension as a reasonable adjustment, you can take an additional 7 calendar days to submit after the deadline – so 14 calendar days in total. Thereafter, any submission will receive a mark of zero. There is no sliding scale of penalties for late submission beyond the 14 calendar days.
In order to ensure speedy resolution to potential issues, you do not need to request permission in advance to submit up to 7 calendar days late (or 14 days for a student with a SSIS which includes an extension as a reasonable adjustment). However, late submissions are not intended for routine use and are monitored – use could trigger a referral to support services. Please ensure that you plan your work around the given submission deadlines. Please speak to the module leader or your Academic Advisor if you feel you are falling behind deadlines. There are links to study skills advice and guidance, including time-management resources, here.
Some module assessments which are time-specific do not have an extendable window and do not therefore allow extensions, e.g. exams, tests, presentations, poster presentations etc. In this module the following assessment is excluded from the 7-day (or 14-day for SSIS students with the relevant reasonable adjustment) extension:
Group Presentation, 20-25 minutes (50% of the overall module grade)
If you are having any difficulties in attending time-specific assessments, or submitting work within the above time thresholds, please contact the School’s Learning and Teaching Support Officer team (email: ULMSLTSO@liverpool.ac.uk), as they can provide advice about submitting a Personal Extenuating Circumstances (PEC) claim.
How to Submit Your Work
You can submit online assignments in Canvas using several submission types. Your tutor can choose what kind of online submissions they want you to use. The exact steps for submitting an assignment may vary depending on the type of assignment and the settings have been chosen. For example, if your tutor has enabled file uploads, you will see a File Upload tab where you can upload your completed assignment.
Step by step guidance on how to submit an assignment in Canvas can be found on the Management School student intranet, here.
Here are some additional tips for submitting assignments in Canvas:
- Make sure you have completed all of the requirements for the assignment.
- Read the instructions carefully before you start working on the assignment.
- Save your work frequently as you are working on the assignment.
- Double-check your work before you submit it.
- If you have any questions about how to submit an assignment, ask your Module Leader for help.
Groupwork Submission
In Canvas, group assignments allow one student to submit on behalf of their entire group. To submit a group assignment, you can either choose a group leader who submits for the group, or any member can submit, and the assignment will apply to all contributing group members.
Coursework Word Limit
- Individual Research Proposal: 2,800 words
- Group Presentation: No word limit or maximum number of slides. The presentation itself alongside the subsequent Q&A session should be no longer than 20-25 minutes
To check the word count in Microsoft Word, you can either look at the status bar at the bottom of the window or use the Word Count tool under the Review tab. The status bar displays the word count as you type, and the Word Count tool provides more detailed statistics.
1. Using the Status Bar:
- The word count is usually displayed on the status bar at the bottom of the Word window.
- If you do not see it, right-click on the status bar and ensure "Word Count" is checked.
2. Using the Word Count Tool:
- Go to the Review tab.
- Click on the Word Count button.
- The Word Count dialog box will appear, providing detailed statistics like word count, character count, page count, paragraph count, and line count.
Please note that the word count is the absolute upper limit. There is no leeway over this, i.e., you will be penalised if you submit work that exceeds the word limit (any suggestion that you may exceed the word count by up to 10% is a myth!)
The following are NOT included in word counts:
- Reference Lists/Bibliographies and Question Titles
- Appendices/Footnotes - provided these have been used only when necessary. If appendices or footnotes are used excessively or contain material which should clearly be included in the main body of the essay/report, it is at the markers’ discretion to include these in the word count.
- Tables and Graphs - provided these have been imported from elsewhere (correctly referenced) and not produced by you.
- Cover Page/Front Page/Table of Contents
As well as the proposal itself, the following are included in word counts:
- Citations/Quotations - this includes the material paraphrased/quoted itself as well as the name, date, and page information
- Tables and Graphs - if they have been produced by you
- Executive Summaries - unless otherwise stated
Will Feedback on Draft Coursework be Given?
Yes. I am happy to provide feedback on your individual proposal drafts. You can ask me questions about your drafts during seminars. Additionally, you can schedule appointments to discuss your proposal in more detail. Please do not send drafts to me via email. I will help you with the assignment's structure and general arguments and will only provide verbal feedback. It is important to note that the teaching team will not provide written feedback on complete drafts. Given that this is an MSc module, you are required to take more ownership and autonomy with your studies.
There will also be a dedicated seminar for mock presentations where each group will receive feedback on the presentation style, arguments, and whether the project challenge/issue has been addressed.
Weighting of the Assessment Components
- Individual Research Proposal (50% of the overall module grade)
- Group Presentation (50% of the overall module grade)
Tips for Achieving Good Marks in Assessments
- Make sure that you read and follow the brief carefully. Marks will be lost if you skip sections or introduce material that is not relevant.
- Do make sure that you demonstrate evidence you have engaged with and understand the course content.
- Guidance on both assessment components will be provided in lectures and seminars. Please make use of it.
- Make sure that you attend all lectures and seminars.
- Make sure that you have a viable proposal.
- Engage fully with the learning and teaching materials.
- Always ask questions. I am happy to answer them all.
- Plan your work carefully and allow time for any unexpected circumstances.
- The online reading list provided in this module is extensive, and readings are chosen each year to help with the coursework brief. We pick the reading so that if you engage with it, you will be able to answer questions fully.
- Remember what you are learning in other modules. Try to use these concepts where relevant.
- Always proofread and check the logical flow of your work. In this coursework, it is important to pay particular attention to how different sections link together. Weaker proposals tend to treat each section as a separate element and do not think about the overall argument that is being presented.
- Make sure you stick to word count. Equally if your work is coming in way under the word count, check to see if you are fully addressing the question and backing up your points with illustration, supporting, and counter evidence.
Learning Tips
- Please ensure you bring a laptop to class wherever possible with internet connectivity.
- Please do the prep for the seminar sessions so that you can be as productive as possible.
- Make use of the drop-in sessions and talk to me about anything related to the module.
- Live lectures will be recorded and shared online so that you can listen again and revise.
Important Information
Important information on assessment-related items can be found on:
- The Management School’s student intranet and
- Your CANVAS programme pages
Examples of information provided include:
- Assessment Policies (Management School Assessment Criteria and links to COPA – University’sCode of Practice on Assessment)
- Exams (timetable information, adjustments and support plans, what to do if you cannot attend an exam, etc.)
- Marking (marking policies, mark ranges and classes, provision of feedback, etc.)
- Coursework Submissions (deadlines, how to submit, what happens if you cannot meet a deadline, etc.)
- Supporting policies (e.g., where personal circumstances have affected your performance or ability to submit work on time or attend an exam, etc.)
- Academic Integrity (policies, procedures, academic misconduct, etc.)
- Results (release dates, appeals and frequently asked questions, etc.)
- Re-sits (timetables, marks, overseas re-sits, etc.)
Re-sits
If you need to re-sit the module, the re-sit assessments are:
- Students who fail the “Individual Research Proposal, 2800 words, 50%” assessment will be required to write an individual proposal on another topic.
- Students who fail the “Group Presentation, 20-25 minutes, 50%” assessment will be required to submit an individual 5-minute recorded presentation.
Please note that the re-sit period (for programmes starting in September) is in August: Re-sits - Management School Intranet (Student) - University of Liverpool
Feedback to Students - How Will I Receive Feedback on this Module?
Feedback for the coursework is summative (i.e., you get a mark for it). Coursework feedback will be provided after the assignments are handed in, within the standard ULMS guidelines.
Verbal formative feedback relating to ongoing coursework assignment queries will be provided during weekly lectures, seminars, and office hours. Written feedback will be posted on Canvas following the end of the module assessment period. This will include an overview of student performance on the module and incorporate a response to the end-of-module evaluation exercise.
How Can I Feedback my Views on this Module?
Your feedback is very important to us and we encourage you to provide your views on your experience here at the Management School. If there is something you would like to provide feedback on, the important thing is that you do so as soon as possible. This gives us the opportunity to take appropriate action early on so we can ensure that you continue to get the best possible student experience.
There are a number of ways in which you can provide your feedback. Please follow the steps outlined below:
Contact Your Module Leader
The quickest and easiest route is to speak to your Module Leader directly. Academic staff are very willing to receive feedback and are happy to take appropriate action where it is required. Contact details are included in the first section of this handbook. Please contact your Module Leader as soon as possible if you have a concern. If left too late, it may not be possible to rectify any problems.
Early Module Feedback
You will be given an opportunity to provide early module feedback informally via the module evaluation process. We encourage you to take the time to provide considered and constructive feedback through this process as this information is reviewed by Module Leaders and used to make changes early on in the module, allowing you to see the direct results of your feedback almost immediately.
Module Evaluation
Towards the end of each module, you will be asked to complete a module evaluation. Reponses are collated and used to produce a written report including, where appropriate, an action plan for development.
Course Representatives and SSLCs
Course Representatives meet three times a year with key members of staff at Staff-Student Liaison Committee (SSLC) meetings to discuss any issues raised by students, find solutions, and identify examples of good practice. If you would like your Course Representative to raise an issue on your behalf, please make contact with them directly. More information on SSLCs and course representatives can be found on Canvas programme pages. It is important to note that there may be a gap between speaking with your Course Representative and the next SSLC meeting, so please consider whether one of the above options may be more appropriate.
Informal Feedback Form (IFF)
The Informal Feedback Form (IFF) provides an opportunity for Management School students to provide comments or suggestions on all aspects of provision within the Management School. Please submit your IFF via the online form: Informal Feedback Form 2025-2026. Your comments will be carefully considered by an appropriate member of staff who will provide you with a written response, including details of any action to be taken as a result. In some cases, you may be invited to discuss your comments in more detail. You do have the option to submit an anonymous IFF.
Complaint Policy
We understand that sometimes things can go wrong, and we encourage you to bring any concerns to our attention as soon as possible so we can take action. We do recognise though that it might not always be possible or appropriate to resolve a matter informally. If you have exhausted all of the options above and wish to submit a complaint, you can do so using the University’s Student Complaints Policy, which can be found here: University of Liverpool Complaints Policy.
Management School Guidance on Providing Feedback
Please be reminded of the Management School’s guidance on providing feedback. Giving constructive feedback is a skill that you will need to develop in the workplace. We welcome feedback that is constructive and specific. It helps us improve. Please remain polite and be aware of the right of every staff member to Dignity at Work. There is lots of evidence of unconscious bias in module evaluation – based on gender, age, race, etc. – so please be aware of this and try to be fair to all staff.
Other Important Library Information
The library aims to provide one book per twenty students (with an initial limit of five copies) for essential texts; eBooks will always be purchased where available. However, if more copies/eBook licences are needed and funds permit, they can purchase extra copies. The library needs to find out which books are in greatest demand, and you can help by taking these steps:
1) If there are no copies available, then you can reserve an item which is out on loan through Library Search. To do this, once you have found the item you wish to reserve, click the ‘Sign in’ button and then click to sign in as a university student. Once you have done this, you will see the option to reserve the item via Click and Collect. This means as soon as a copy is returned, you will be notified and can collect it. It also means that library staff are notified of the demand for the book, and more copies may be purchased.
2) Place a request through the Get It For Me service. Get It For Me can be used to request books, eBooks, articles, and chapters you are unable to get hold of through the library.
3) Contact the Library Help Desk by email or live chat, talk to staff at the library’s information support desks or contact your Liaison Librarian to let us know more copies are needed. The current Liaison Librarian for the Management School is Liam Kaye (email: Liam.Kaye@liverpool.ac.uk).
APPENDIX A: THE UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL MANAGEMENT SCHOOL’S (ULMS) GRADUATE – LEARNING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
The Management School graduate is:
Flexible and Adaptable
Our graduates understand that the business world develops and changes quickly, and ULMS will provide them with opportunities to develop the skills needed to be open to the challenges this brings.
A Problem Solver
Our graduates are provided with opportunities to develop their critical and analytical skills from the day they join the School. By learning to think creatively, to persevere with an issue and to draw on the resources available to them, our graduates approach difficult situations confident that they can reach a successful outcome and make a difference.
Numerate
Maths is an essential element of all of our programmes, and our graduates are confident and competent when using numbers to analyse situations, solve problems, and make decisions.
Commercially Aware
The teaching at ULMS is drawn from the latest business and management research, ensuring that our graduates understand the environment in which they begin their careers.
A Team Player
Our graduates understand the importance of contributing to a team. By contributing to group work, our students understand the dynamics of a team and the importance of individual roles and how each can make a difference to achieving a result.
Organised and Able to Work Under Pressure
ULMS graduates learn to manage their time carefully during their studies. Our graduates are motivated to learn outside the classroom and are adept at managing deadlines and dealing with conflicting demands upon their time.
An Excellent Communicator
The ULMS syllabus requires students to demonstrate their aptitude for communicating throughout their studies. Their skills include writing essays, business reports, and case studies, giving presentations, listening to and questioning guest speakers, and using negotiating and persuasion skills to argue a point during a class debate. Our graduates understand the difference that effective communication can make to a situation.
IT Literate
Our graduates understand the importance of IT in the modern business environment and ensure that their digital literacy skills are up to date in order to use it successfully. They understand how to prepare and analyse spreadsheets, can write reports, and use IT to enhance presentations. They are confident users of electronic databases and are skilled at finding and evaluating appropriate and relevant information from electronic sources.
Internationally Aware
The ULMS teaching and research community is drawn from around the world, and our students are exposed to business ideas and cultures from beyond the UK. Many graduates make the most of international opportunities available to them, from participating in overseas exchanges to participating in international inter-university business games.
A Lifelong Learner
ULMS graduates understand that the end of their degree programme does not mean the end of their learning journey. Our students understand the importance of continually building skills and knowledge in order to maintain commercial awareness, to be able to follow a flexible career path and to continue to make a difference throughout their working lives.
Ethically Aware
The ULMS teaching, learning, and assessment strategy ensures that all graduates are exposed to ideas of business ethics whilst studying and that they have an understanding of the difference business can make in the wider community and across the world.
A Leader
We instil our graduates with the confidence to lead others by providing opportunities within the curriculum to debate ideas, present research, solve problems, and make difficult decisions.
