Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Corporate Finance Stream
Anthony Carlton
Contact via Email
Risk Management Stream
Elizabeth Sheedy
Contact via Email
Funds & Wealth Management Stream
Dan Daugaard
Contact via Email
Academic Director
Rob Trevor
Contact via Email
Anthony Carlton
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Credit points |
Credit points
2
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Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
(Admission to MAppFin or GradCertPost-MAppFin) and permission by special approval
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Corequisites |
Corequisites
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Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
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Unit description |
Unit description
This unit is an alternative to a coursework elective for students with a minimum credit average, and who have completed an elective unit relevant to the area of the research topic prior to enrolment.
Two options are available.
Option #1: Identify an industry issue from the field of applied finance, critically analyse its current status, present and critically evaluate possible responses. Students are required to analyse the current state of industry practice, and critically review both the academic and industry relevant literature. Where appropriate, the research project should include a case study or pilot empirical analysis. Successful students will have the opportunity to undertake a more detailed investigation using quantitative analysis, or resolution by developing an analytical or other solution, by enrolling in Individual Research Project B.
Option #2: Produce a business case study, focusing on an applied industry issue and an individual organisation affected by that issue. The case study will be informed by reviewing relevant literature and interviewing industry practitioners, and will cover the current status of the issue and the implications for the organisation. A critical analysis of the issue will be provided by a supporting case study explanatory note. This option will not be recognised as a prerequisite for enrolment in Individual Research Project B.
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Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
Students can choose one of two options for completing this unit:
Option #1: requires a student to identify an industry issue from the field of applied finance, critically analyse the current status of the issue, and present and critically evaluate possible responses. In addition to analysing the current state of industry practice, the project will require students to critically review not only academic, but also industry relevant, literature. Where appropriate, the research project should include a demonstration of possible responses by including a case study or pilot empirical analysis. Successful students will have the opportunity to further explore the topic by enrolling in Individual Research Project B, which will require more detailed investigation of the issue using quantitative analysis or resolution by developing an analytical or other solution.
Option #2: A student can produce a business case study and supporting explanatory note as a supervised research project. The case study writing option will require the presentation of an applied finance industry issue with a focus on an individual organisation affected by that issue. The case study will cover the current status of the issue, the implications for the organization and be informed by reviewing relevant literature and interviewing industry practitioners. The supporting case study teaching note will provide a critical analysis of the issue drawing upon relevant academic literature and appropriately assess and respond to the issue. This option will not be recognised as a pre-requisite for enrolment in AFCF866 Individual Research Project B.
Assessment Tasks for Option #2 are described in an addendum to this unit guide.
Prior to enrolling in the research project, students must have an agreed Supervisor, and an approved research topic and work plan. In the first instance, students interested in undertaking this unit should approach the lecturer in their chosen field of interest, or contact the relevant Stream Co-ordinator. Based on the nature of the project, a prospective supervisor(s) may be appointed, and specifications for the research project can be agreed. Only once a prospective Supervisor has agreed to a relevant research proposal can a student enroll in the subject.
Resources to assist in the preparation of the proposal are available on the unit iLearn site. Interested students should ask the relevant Stream Co-ordinator to arrange for access to the site.
To pass this unit (requires a mark of 50 or better) the student must pass the Research Project for Option #1 or the combination of the Business Case Study and the Explanatory Note for Options #2.
Name | Weighting | Hurdle | Due |
---|---|---|---|
Research Proposal | 10% | No | Prior to term of project start |
Progress Report | 10% | No | As agreed with Supervisor(s) |
Research Paper | 60% | Yes | As agreed with Supervisor(s) |
Presentation | 20% | No | As agreed with Supervisor(s) |
Due: Prior to term of project start
Weighting: 10%
The Research Proposal should clearly describe the research opportunity, and how it will achieve the stated learning outcomes for the unit. The proposal should demonstrate that the project is feasible, and include a schedule for completion of the project, and any resources, data, software or other material which are required to complete the project in the required time frame.
Students can refer to the iLearn site, which has links to the following article which may be of assistance in preparing a Research Proposal:
Robert, W. Faff, “A Simple template for pitching research”, Accounting and Finance, 55 (2015), 311 – 336.
Summary of Assessment Task
Individual / Group: Individual
Due Date: To be submitted one month prior to commencement of term in which Research Project will be undertaken (unless otherwise agreed).
Grading Method: Refer to 'Standards Required to Complete the Unit Satisfactorily' section.
Submission Method: Online via Turnitin on unit iLearn site.
Length: 500 words
Extension Requests:
Due: As agreed with Supervisor(s)
Weighting: 10%
The Progress Report should be in a form agreed with the Supervisor(s) at the commencement of the project. It should particularly identify any issues which may impact on the timely completion of the project.
Summary of Assessment Task
Individual / Group: Individual
Due Date: Refer to the Unit's iLearn site
Grading Method: Refer to 'Standards Required to Complete the Unit Satisfactorily' section
Submission Method: As agreed with Supervisor(s)
Duration: As agreed with Supervisor(s)
Extension Requests:
Due: As agreed with Supervisor(s)
Weighting: 60%
This is a hurdle assessment task (see assessment policy for more information on hurdle assessment tasks)
The actual format of the project should be agreed with the Supervisor(s) as part of the approval of the project but, in general, should be in the form of an article suitable for publication in an industry oriented journal such as JASSA. Specific guidelines are included in the iLearn site.
Summary of Assessment Task
Individual / Group: Individual
Due Date: Refer to the Unit’s iLearn site
Grading Method: Refer to 'Standards Required to Complete the Unit Satisfactorily' section
Submission Method: Online via Turnitin on iLearn site
Duration: Up to 3,000 words
Extension Requests:
Due: As agreed with Supervisor(s)
Weighting: 20%
The presentation is required to be made to a diverse audience, ideally comprising faculty from the Applied Finance Centre and industry representatives. The format should be agreed with the Supervisor(s). The presentation should demonstrate how the learning outcomes of this unit have been met. The student will be assessed both on the presentation delivery and their ability to respond to issues and questions raised by the audience.
Summary of Assessment Task
Individual / Group: Individual
Due Date: Due Date: As agreed with Supervisor(s)
Grading Method: Refer to 'Standards Required to Complete the Unit Satisfactorily' section
Submission Method: As agreed with Supervisor(s)
Duration: Oral or visual, equivalent of 1,000 words or 15 – 20 minutes.
Extension Requests:
70 hours individual work; plus
5 hours: face to face with supervisor.
Consultation Times: The student and appointed supervisor(s) should agree expectations for the role of the supervisor, especially in terms of provision of feedback and other support.
There are no general required texts or materials for this unit. Specific resources should be agreed with the supervisor as part of the approval process for undertaking the project. The iLearn site contains useful references to assist in the preparation of the research proposal, the preparation of the project and research methods which might be required. General references which may be useful to students are listed below.
Useful References:
Chapter 1, “Framing the Problem” and Chapter 2, “Designing the Analysis”, in Ethan M. Rasiel and Paul N. Friga, The McKinsey Mind, McGrath Hill, 2002 [ebook available via library]
Uma Sekaran and Roger Bougie, Research Methods for Business: A Skill- Building Approach, 6th ed, Wiley, 2013 [available as e-text]
Alana Bryman & Emma Bell, Business Research Methods, 4th ed, Oxford, 2015 [available as e-text]
Barbara Minto, The Pyramid Principle, Financial Times – Pitman Publishing, 1987
Assumed Access:
Access to a computer with word processing and spreadsheet capability is assumed, as is general computer literacy.
Unit iLearn Site:
Important Notice:
The plan for completion of the project should be agreed with the Supervisor(s) prior to commencement of the project.
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
Academic Honesty Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/academic_honesty/policy.html
Assessment Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy_2016.html
Grade Appeal Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/gradeappeal/policy.html
Complaint Management Procedure for Students and Members of the Public http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/complaint_management/procedure.html
Disruption to Studies Policy (in effect until Dec 4th, 2017): http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/disruption_studies/policy.html
Special Consideration Policy (in effect from Dec 4th, 2017): https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/special-consideration
In addition, a number of other policies can be found in the Learning and Teaching Category of Policy Central.
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/support/student_conduct/
Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.
Students should also consult the MAFC Program Rules & Procedures found at http://www.mafc.mq.edu.au
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.
For all student enquires, please contact studentsupport@mafc.mq.edu.au
Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.
Learning Skills (http://www.students.mq.edu.au/support/learning_skills/) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.
For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au
For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.
Our postgraduates will demonstrate a high standard of discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgment. They will have the ability to make informed choices and decisions that reflect both the nature of their professional work and their personal perspectives.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our postgraduates will be ethically aware and capable of confident transformative action in relation to their professional responsibilities and the wider community. They will have a sense of connectedness with others and country and have a sense of mutual obligation. They will be able to appreciate the impact of their professional roles for social justice and inclusion related to national and global issues
This graduate capability is supported by:
This unit is offered for the first time in 2017.
Assessment Tasks
Name |
Weighting | Due |
Research Proposal |
10% |
As agreed with Supervisor(s) |
Business Case Study |
45% |
As agreed with Supervisor(s) |
Explanatory Note |
30% |
As agreed with Supervisor(s) |
Presentation |
15% |
As agreed with Supervisor(s) |
Due: Refer to iLearn
Weighting: 10%
The Research Proposal should clearly describe the research opportunity, and how it will achieve the stated learning outcomes for the unit. The proposal should demonstrate that the project is feasible, and include a schedule for completion of the project, and any resources, data, software or other material which are required to complete the project in the required time frame.
Students can refer to the iLearn site, which has links to the following article which may be of assistance in preparing a Research Proposal:
Robert, W. Faff, “A Simple template for pitching research”, Accounting and Finance, 55 (2015), 311 – 336.
Summary of Assessment Task
Individual / Group: Individual
Due Date: Refer to iLearn
Grading Method: Refer to 'Standards Required to Complete the Unit Satisfactorily' section
Submission Method: Online via Turnitin on iLearn site
Length: 500 words
Extension Requests:
This Assessment Task relates to the following Learning Outcomes:
Due: As agreed with Supervisor(s)
Weighting: 45%
The actual format of the project should be agreed with the Supervisor(s) as part of the approval of the project but, in general, should be in the form of a Business Case Study as published by Harvard Business School. Specific guidance will be provided throughout the term.
Summary of Assessment Task
Individual / Group: Individual
Due Date: Refer to the Unit's iLearn site
Grading Method: Refer to 'Standards Required to Complete the Unit Satisfactorily' section
Submission Method: Online via Turnitin on iLearn site
Duration: Up to 2,500 words
Extension Requests:
This Assessment Task relates to the following Learning Outcomes:
Due: As agreed with Supervisor(s)
Weighting: 30%
The actual format of the project should be agreed with the Supervisor(s) as part of the approval of the project but, in general, should be in the form of an Explanatory Note as published by Harvard Business School. Specific guidance will be provided throughout the term.
Summary of Assessment Task
Individual / Group: Individual
Due Date: Refer to the Unit's iLearn site
Grading Method: Refer to 'Standards Required to Complete the Unit Satisfactorily' section
Submission Method: Online via Turnitin on iLearn site
Duration: Up to 1,500 words
Extension Requests:
This Assessment Task relates to the following Learning Outcomes:
Due: As agreed with supervisor(s)
Weighting: 15%
The presentation is required to be made to a diverse audience, ideally comprising faculty from the Applied Finance Centre and industry representatives. The format should be agreed with the Supervisor(s). The presentation should demonstrate how the learning outcomes of this unit have been met. The student will be assessed both on the presentation delivery and their ability to respond to issues and questions raised by the audience.
Summary of Assessment Task
Individual / Group: Individual
Due Date: As agreed with supervisor(s)
Grading Method: Refer to 'Standards Required to Complete the Unit Satisfactorily' section
Submission Method: As agreed with supervisor(s)
Duration: Oral or visual, equivalent of 750 words or 20 minutes.
Extension Requests:
This Assessment Task relates to the following Learning Outcomes:
Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our postgraduates will demonstrate a high standard of discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgment. They will have the ability to make informed choices and decisions that reflect both the nature of their professional work and their personal perspectives.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Our postgraduates will be ethically aware and capable of confident transformative action in relation to their professional responsibilities and the wider community. They will have a sense of connectedness with others and country and have a sense of mutual obligation. They will be able to appreciate the impact of their professional roles for social justice and inclusion related to national and global issues
This graduate capability is supported by:
This Unit Guide may be subject to change. The latest version is on the Centre’s web site www.mafc.mq.edu.au.
Students should read the Unit Guide carefully at the start of semester. It contains important information about the unit. If anything is unclear, please consult one of the unit lecturers.
University Policy on Grading:
Specific Unit Grading:
Grade | Expectation |
---|---|
High Distinction | Provides consistent evidence of deep and critical understanding in relation to the learning outcomes. There is substantial originality and insight in identifying, generating and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem solving approaches; critical evaluation of problems, their solutions and their implications; creativity in application as appropriate to the discipline. |
Distinction | Provides evidence of integration and evaluation of critical ideas, principles and theories, distinctive insight and ability in applying relevant skills and concepts in relation to learning outcomes. There is demonstration of frequent originality in defining and analysing issues or problems and providing solutions; and the use of means of communication appropriate to the discipline and the audience. |
Credit | Provides evidence of learning that goes beyond replication of content knowledge or skills relevant to the learning outcomes. There is demonstration of substantial understanding of fundamental concepts in the field of study and the ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; convincing argumentation with appropriate coherent justification; communication of ideas fluently and clearly in terms of the conventions of the discipline. |
Pass | Provides sufficient evidence of the achievement of learning outcomes. There is demonstration of understanding and application of fundamental concepts of the field of study; routine argumentation with acceptable justification; communication of information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the discipline. The learning attainment is considered satisfactory or adequate or competent or capable in relation to the specified outcomes. |
Fail | Does not provide evidence of attainment of learning outcomes. There is missing or partial or superficial or faulty understanding and application of the fundamental concepts in the field of study; missing, undeveloped, inappropriate or confusing argumentation; incomplete, confusing or lacking communication of ideas in ways that give little attention to the conventions of the discipline. |
Review of Grade and final examination Script viewing: