Unit 19: Research Project is Corporate Social Responsibility ‘Corporate Social Responsibility is the continuing commitment: research project Assignment, OU, UK

Scenario

The Pearson-set theme for use with Level 5 Unit 19: Research Project is Corporate Social Responsibility ‘Corporate Social Responsibility is the continuing commitment by businesses to behave ethically and contribute to economic development while improving the quality of life of the workforce and their families as well as of the local community and society at large.’ (World Business Council for Sustainable Development). Businesses worldwide have increasingly embraced the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to develop and adopt sustainable practices and approaches in their business operations. It is a multifaceted concept that encompasses many different aspects ranging from philanthropy, ethical responsibilities, and environmental considerations. Most recently, in response to maximizing stakeholder value and expectations, the strategic benefits of CSR have seen many companies have a competitive advantage. Together with the rise of globalization, companies now employ CSR managers, experts, and consultants to produce comprehensive CSR policies and programs, to give them a competitive edge and build stakeholder trust and loyalty.

Strong research projects are those with clear, well-focused, and defined objectives. A central skill in selecting a research objective is the ability to select a suitable and focused research objective. One of the best ways to do this is to put it in the form of a question. Students should be encouraged by tutors to discuss a variety of topics related to the theme to generate ideas for a good research objective. The range of topics discussed could cover the following: 

The extent to which company corporate social responsibility programs align with the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations Corporate social responsibility and the environment: A case study in the energy sector  How corporate social responsibility is used to gain a competitive edge.