Instructions:

There are 2 parts (both mandatory) as below:

Prepare a research proposal as per given guidelines

Perform data analysis and report your results as per given guidelines

Word limit (Total): 2000words

Assessment Criteria:

Content: relevance, focus and coverage

Reading and Research: demonstration of independent reading that includes scholarly refereed journal articles and use of a range of sources

Format, Structure and/or Use of relevant tables, graphs and data: clear, neat, within word limits, logic

Quality of argument: evidence of understanding, judgement, originality, logic and synthesis, critical thinking, analysis and exposition

Quality of communication: language and clarity; bibliography and referencing; Harvard referencing system.

Part 1: Research proposal

It should include the following sub-headings:

Title:

This should represent the content of your proposal.

Research topic:

You have to briefly explain your research topic and why it is relevant. It may be a problem which needs a solution or a question which needs an answer or a theory which needs further development.

Literature review:

Discuss the literature relevant to your research topic and reference them (in Harvard format). A minimum of 5 references are needed. Explain how your topic fits in the debate. Explain how your topic will contribute to the existing literature.

Proposed data type and collection techniques:

Explain whether you plan to use primary or secondary data. Also, elaborate on the source of the data and the proposed collection techniques which will be used to obtain the data.

Proposed methodology:

Explain your research design, the proposed methodology and the reason for choosing the same.

Part 2: Data analysis (40marks)

Using Microsoft Excel, examine the case study and answer the questions below:

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) and the Standard & Poor (S&P) 500 Index are widely followed measures of the overall stock market. The DJIA tracks 30 major companies, while the broader S&P 500 offers a more comprehensive view of 500 stocks. Understanding the relationship between these indices can provide insight into market trends.

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