IB9CU-15 Research Methods in Accounting
Introductory description
This module will provide an overview of quantitative research methodologies in accounting research.
Module aims
The main goal of the module is to introduce students to quantitative research methods, this aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills (critical and analytical) to understand how this methods are applied in accounting research. Seminars will help students understand how to apply the quantitative techniques learned.
These skills will be useful to all students in the programme given the high relevance of quantitative methods in today's business practices. In addition, the course will provide a good background for those students that eventually may need to use quantitative methods for their dissertation.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
Week 1 - Introduction to the Module
(1) Module Info.
(2) What is Research/Research Process/Examples
(3) Different types of research
(4) Theories as testable explanations
Week 2 - Introduction to Data
(1) What is data?/Sources of data in accounting research
(2) Data structure/Types of Data
(3) Common issues/problems with databases
(4) Identifiers
Week 3 - Introduction to STATA and Databases
(1) Why STATA?/STATA interface
(2) First steps using STATA
(3) Do-Files
(4) Relevant databases for accounting research
(5) How to access data/WRDS
Week 4 - Sample Issues and Univariate Analysis
(1) Basic definitions
(2) Sample Characteristics/Representativeness
(3) Describing the sample/data
(4) Measures of centrality/variability/shape
(5) Chebyshevs's theorem
(6) Normal Distribution
(7) Central limit theorem
(8) Hypothesis testing
Week 5 & 6 - Linear Regression
(1) Basic Idea
(2) Simple regression model
(3) Multiple regression model
(4) OLS method/Assumptions
(5) Interpreting regression results
(6) Post-estimation
(7) Consequences of violating OLS assumptions
(10) Omitted Variables
(11) Measurement Error
Week 7 – Panel data & Endogeneity
(1) Basics of panel data
(2) Fixed effects model
(3) Endogeneity
(4) Omitted variables
(5) Measurement error
(6) Simultaneity
Week 8 & 9 – Advanced research methods
(1) Causal inference in accounting research
(2) Difference-in-difference
(3) Instrumental Variables
(4) Natural Experiments
(5) Propensity Score Matching
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the current techniques utilised in accounting research
- Demonstrate critical and analytical reasoning approaches
Indicative reading list
Woolridge, J. (2016). Introductory Econometrics: A Modern Approach, 6th Edition, Cengage Learning.
Woolridge, J. (2010). Econometrics analysis of cross section and panel data, 2nd edition, MIT Press.
Smith, M. (2017). Research Methods in Accounting, 4th edition, Sage: London.
In addition to these there will be a number of academic articles, references for which will be provided by individual lecturers on mywbs.
Subject specific skills
Comprehensively analyse and interpret data, enabling the student to evaluate their hypotheses and comment upon their findings in relation to existing evidence in the literature.
collect, present, analyse and interpret data to test hypotheses or research problems.
Transferable skills
Generate, present and describe data, communicating its analysis in a clear, creative and informative way
communicate methods and results clearly and informatively
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 9 sessions of 2 hours (12%) |
| Seminars | 7 sessions of 2 hours (9%) |
| Private study | 48 hours (32%) |
| Assessment | 70 hours (47%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
Self study to include preparation for assessment and pre-reading for lectures and seminars
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You do not need to pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group C1
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment component |
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| 2000 word essay | 40% | 28 hours | Yes (extension) |
Reassessment component is the same |
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Assessment component |
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| Class participation problem sets | 10% | 7 hours | No |
Reassessment component is the same |
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Assessment component |
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| Written Examination - Local | 50% | 35 hours | No |
Reassessment component is the same |
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Feedback on assessment
Advice and feedback on project work will be given during seminars. Written feedback will be given on the submitted coursework.
Courses
This module is Core optional for:
- Year 1 of TIBS-N4N3 MSc in Accounting and Finance