BSN453 Evidence-Based Management
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | BSN453 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2027, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | BSN453 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
Overview
Mid-level managers in technology-enabled environments face a persistent dilemma: they're expected to make data-driven decisions, but data is rarely complete, often contradictory, and frequently too messy to yield clear answers. This unit teaches evidence-based decision-making frameworks for operational contexts where data is abundant but imperfect. You will learn to assess data quality and fitness-for-purpose, triangulate insights from multiple incomplete sources, and apply structured decision frameworks to facilitate business transformation in a data-rich world. The unit covers practical techniques for communicating data limitations to stakeholders, building defensible business cases that acknowledge what is known and unknown, and establishing ethical guardrails for data use in consequential decisions.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Systematically identify, gather, and critically evaluate evidence from multiple sources including organisational data, scientific research, stakeholder perspectives, and professional experience to diagnose complex problems in digital business contexts, assessing the quality, reliability, and applicability of evidence while identifying gaps, conflicts, and biases. [KS 1.2, HO 2.1]
- Synthesise evidence to develop justified recommendations for digital business challenges by evaluating alternative solutions against the evidence base, articulating how evidence shapes decision-making, and acknowledging limitations and uncertainties in both evidence and conclusions. [HO 2.2, PC 3.1, SE 5.1]
- Design measurement approaches to evaluate the implementation and outcomes of evidence-based management decisions in digital business initiatives.. [KS 1.2, HO 2.2]
- Reflect critically on personal decision-making practices by analysing specific examples of professional judgment, identifying cognitive biases and evidence gaps in one's own approach, and developing strategies for continuous improvement in evidence-based practice. [HO 2.1, 2.2, TS 4.1]
Content
Content in this unit focuses on evidence-based decision-making and professional judgement in data-rich but uncertain business environments. Topics include evidence hierarchies and quality assessment; evaluating data reliability, bias, and fitness-for-purpose; triangulating insights from organisational data, research, and stakeholder perspectives; structured decision frameworks for complex problems; decision-making under uncertainty; cognitive and organisational biases; communicating evidence limitations and confidence levels to stakeholders; building defensible, evidence-based business cases; ethical and responsible use of data in consequential decisions; and measurement and evaluation approaches for decision outcomes. Case-based analysis is used to develop practical judgement, critical thinking, and applied decision capability.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply advanced, integrated discipline and professional practice knowledge, including relevant research principles and methods, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge to investigate digitally enhanced business environments.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
3.2 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
4.2 Apply collaborative capabilities to work effectively in diverse teams and across complex, interdisciplinary business environments.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
5.2 Apply socially responsible and sustainability-focused thinking to analyse business issues and reflect on the broader impact of organisations in national and global contexts.
Learning Approaches
Learning in this unit is structured around case-based analysis and the applied use of evidence-based decision frameworks. You will engage with realistic business scenarios drawn from data-rich and uncertain environments, where you practise diagnosing problems, evaluating evidence quality, and forming defensible judgements. Guided learning activities emphasise structured decision tools, evidence triangulation, and critical evaluation of competing information sources. Through iterative case analysis, you test alternative interpretations, justify recommendations, and communicate evidence limitations and confidence levels. This applied, case-driven approach supports the development of professional judgement, critical thinking, and reflective decision practice consistent with evidence-based management in contemporary business contexts.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
This unit includes three interconnected assessment items which demonstrate your achievement of the unit's learning outcomes. The first assessment item establishes the foundation for your final project and allows for formative feedback on your evidence-gathering and critical evaluation skills before you proceed to the second assessment item focussing on solutions and recommendations. The final assessment item provides you with an opportunity to reflect on your professional decision-making practices.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review
You will select a current digital business challenge from your workplace (or a substantial provided case) and produce a diagnostic report that: (a) clearly defines and scopes the problem or decision, (b) systematically identifies and gathers relevant evidence from multiple sources (organisational data, research literature, stakeholder perspectives, professional experience), and (c) critically evaluates the quality, reliability, and applicability of each evidence source, identifying gaps, conflicts, and biases in the available evidence. This component establishes the foundation for your final project and allows for formative feedback on your evidence-gathering and critical evaluation skills before you proceed to solutions and recommendations.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative and Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), HO (2.1)
Assessment: Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
Building on the problem diagnosis from Assessment 1 and incorporating feedback received, you will complete your evidence-based management project by: (a) identifying and evaluating potential solutions or courses of action against the evidence base, (b) synthesising their analysis to arrive at justified recommendations that explicitly show how evidence shaped the decision, (c) acknowledging limitations, uncertainties, and areas requiring further evidence, and (d) proposing how the implementation and outcomes should be measured.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), HO (2.2), PC (3.1), SE (5.1)
Assessment: Reflective Account
You will present a reflective account examining your professional decision-making practices before, during, and beyond this unit. You will analyse specific examples where your approach to evidence has changed, identify persistent biases or blind spots, evaluate how evidence-based management principles challenge or reinforce your existing practices, and articulate a developmental pathway for ongoing improvement.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
This assessment item is Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the Unit Canvas site.
This assessment item requires your attendance at your scheduled tutorial/session.
The late submission period does not apply, and no assignment extensions are available.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): (HO 2.1, 2.2), TS (4.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
Eric Barends and Denise M. Rousseau (2025), Evidence-Based Decision Making - For Organizations, Public Policy and Practice (2nd Edition), CEBMa, distributed by VitalSource, ISBN: 9789082695755
Students are required to have their own copy.
Other resources
Additional readings will be available on the Unit Canvas site.
Other
Laptop Requirement: To support interactive learning and in-class activities, students are expected to bring a fully charged laptop (or compatible device) to each scheduled class. This ensures you can participate in digital exercises, access online resources, and collaborate effectively with peers.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the ordinary risks associated with learning and teaching activities this unit.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate) 2027
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account
KS (1.2): Technical and Technological Skills
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS12 Master of Business
- Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge in digitally enhanced business environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
BS36 Graduate Certificate in Digital Business and Innovation
- Apply technical, digital, and research skills to organise, interpret, and evaluate discipline knowledge and practice to investigate business issues in digitally enhanced environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate real-world business issues and challenges using analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of interdisciplinary knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise innovative thinking and intellectual independence to make informed decisions and judgements in planning evidence-based responses to complex and evolving business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information literacy skills to communicate effectively in written forms and through appropriate digital media, tailored to diverse professional and organisational audiences.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Demonstrate self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for continuous learning and effective professional practice in dynamic business environments.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
BS68 Graduate Diploma in Business
- Apply technical, digital, and research skills to organise, interpret, and evaluate discipline knowledge and practice to investigate business issues in digitally enhanced environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate real-world business issues and challenges using analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of interdisciplinary knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise innovative thinking and intellectual independence to make informed decisions and judgements in planning evidence-based responses to complex and evolving business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information literacy skills to communicate effectively in written forms and through appropriate digital media, tailored to diverse professional and organisational audiences.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Demonstrate self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for continuous learning and effective professional practice in dynamic business environments.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2027, Online
| Unit code: | BSN453 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
Overview
Mid-level managers in technology-enabled environments face a persistent dilemma: they're expected to make data-driven decisions, but data is rarely complete, often contradictory, and frequently too messy to yield clear answers. This unit teaches evidence-based decision-making frameworks for operational contexts where data is abundant but imperfect. You will learn to assess data quality and fitness-for-purpose, triangulate insights from multiple incomplete sources, and apply structured decision frameworks to facilitate business transformation in a data-rich world. The unit covers practical techniques for communicating data limitations to stakeholders, building defensible business cases that acknowledge what is known and unknown, and establishing ethical guardrails for data use in consequential decisions.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Systematically identify, gather, and critically evaluate evidence from multiple sources including organisational data, scientific research, stakeholder perspectives, and professional experience to diagnose complex problems in digital business contexts, assessing the quality, reliability, and applicability of evidence while identifying gaps, conflicts, and biases. [KS 1.2, HO 2.1]
- Synthesise evidence to develop justified recommendations for digital business challenges by evaluating alternative solutions against the evidence base, articulating how evidence shapes decision-making, and acknowledging limitations and uncertainties in both evidence and conclusions. [HO 2.2, PC 3.1, SE 5.1]
- Design measurement approaches to evaluate the implementation and outcomes of evidence-based management decisions in digital business initiatives.. [KS 1.2, HO 2.2]
- Reflect critically on personal decision-making practices by analysing specific examples of professional judgment, identifying cognitive biases and evidence gaps in one's own approach, and developing strategies for continuous improvement in evidence-based practice. [HO 2.1, 2.2, TS 4.1]
Content
Content in this unit focuses on evidence-based decision-making and professional judgement in data-rich but uncertain business environments. Topics include evidence hierarchies and quality assessment; evaluating data reliability, bias, and fitness-for-purpose; triangulating insights from organisational data, research, and stakeholder perspectives; structured decision frameworks for complex problems; decision-making under uncertainty; cognitive and organisational biases; communicating evidence limitations and confidence levels to stakeholders; building defensible, evidence-based business cases; ethical and responsible use of data in consequential decisions; and measurement and evaluation approaches for decision outcomes. Case-based analysis is used to develop practical judgement, critical thinking, and applied decision capability.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply advanced, integrated discipline and professional practice knowledge, including relevant research principles and methods, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge to investigate digitally enhanced business environments.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
3.2 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
4.2 Apply collaborative capabilities to work effectively in diverse teams and across complex, interdisciplinary business environments.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
5.2 Apply socially responsible and sustainability-focused thinking to analyse business issues and reflect on the broader impact of organisations in national and global contexts.
Learning Approaches
Learning in this unit is structured around case-based analysis and the applied use of evidence-based decision frameworks. You will engage with realistic business scenarios drawn from data-rich and uncertain environments, where you practise diagnosing problems, evaluating evidence quality, and forming defensible judgements. Guided learning activities emphasise structured decision tools, evidence triangulation, and critical evaluation of competing information sources. Through iterative case analysis, you test alternative interpretations, justify recommendations, and communicate evidence limitations and confidence levels. This applied, case-driven approach supports the development of professional judgement, critical thinking, and reflective decision practice consistent with evidence-based management in contemporary business contexts.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
This unit includes three interconnected assessment items which demonstrate your achievement of the unit's learning outcomes. The first assessment item establishes the foundation for your final project and allows for formative feedback on your evidence-gathering and critical evaluation skills before you proceed to the second assessment item focussing on solutions and recommendations. The final assessment item provides you with an opportunity to reflect on your professional decision-making practices.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review
You will select a current digital business challenge from your workplace (or a substantial provided case) and produce a diagnostic report that: (a) clearly defines and scopes the problem or decision, (b) systematically identifies and gathers relevant evidence from multiple sources (organisational data, research literature, stakeholder perspectives, professional experience), and (c) critically evaluates the quality, reliability, and applicability of each evidence source, identifying gaps, conflicts, and biases in the available evidence. This component establishes the foundation for your final project and allows for formative feedback on your evidence-gathering and critical evaluation skills before you proceed to solutions and recommendations.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative and Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), HO (2.1)
Assessment: Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
Building on the problem diagnosis from Assessment 1 and incorporating feedback received, you will complete your evidence-based management project by: (a) identifying and evaluating potential solutions or courses of action against the evidence base, (b) synthesising their analysis to arrive at justified recommendations that explicitly show how evidence shaped the decision, (c) acknowledging limitations, uncertainties, and areas requiring further evidence, and (d) proposing how the implementation and outcomes should be measured.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), HO (2.2), PC (3.1), SE (5.1)
Assessment: Reflective Account
You will present a reflective account examining your professional decision-making practices before, during, and beyond this unit. You will analyse specific examples where your approach to evidence has changed, identify persistent biases or blind spots, evaluate how evidence-based management principles challenge or reinforce your existing practices, and articulate a developmental pathway for ongoing improvement.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
This assessment item is Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the Unit Canvas site.
This assessment item requires your attendance at your scheduled tutorial/session.
The late submission period does not apply, and no assignment extensions are available.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): (HO 2.1, 2.2), TS (4.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
Eric Barends and Denise M. Rousseau (2025), Evidence-Based Decision Making - For Organizations, Public Policy and Practice (2nd Edition), CEBMa, distributed by VitalSource, ISBN: 9789082695755
Students are required to have their own copy.
Other resources
Additional readings will be available on the Unit Canvas site.
Other
Laptop Requirement: To support interactive learning and in-class activities, students are expected to bring a fully charged laptop (or compatible device) to each scheduled class. This ensures you can participate in digital exercises, access online resources, and collaborate effectively with peers.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the ordinary risks associated with learning and teaching activities this unit.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate) 2027
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account
KS (1.2): Technical and Technological Skills
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS12 Master of Business
- Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge in digitally enhanced business environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
BS36 Graduate Certificate in Digital Business and Innovation
- Apply technical, digital, and research skills to organise, interpret, and evaluate discipline knowledge and practice to investigate business issues in digitally enhanced environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate real-world business issues and challenges using analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of interdisciplinary knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise innovative thinking and intellectual independence to make informed decisions and judgements in planning evidence-based responses to complex and evolving business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information literacy skills to communicate effectively in written forms and through appropriate digital media, tailored to diverse professional and organisational audiences.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Demonstrate self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for continuous learning and effective professional practice in dynamic business environments.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
BS68 Graduate Diploma in Business
- Apply technical, digital, and research skills to organise, interpret, and evaluate discipline knowledge and practice to investigate business issues in digitally enhanced environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate real-world business issues and challenges using analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of interdisciplinary knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise innovative thinking and intellectual independence to make informed decisions and judgements in planning evidence-based responses to complex and evolving business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information literacy skills to communicate effectively in written forms and through appropriate digital media, tailored to diverse professional and organisational audiences.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Demonstrate self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for continuous learning and effective professional practice in dynamic business environments.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2027, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | BSN453 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
Overview
Mid-level managers in technology-enabled environments face a persistent dilemma: they're expected to make data-driven decisions, but data is rarely complete, often contradictory, and frequently too messy to yield clear answers. This unit teaches evidence-based decision-making frameworks for operational contexts where data is abundant but imperfect. You will learn to assess data quality and fitness-for-purpose, triangulate insights from multiple incomplete sources, and apply structured decision frameworks to facilitate business transformation in a data-rich world. The unit covers practical techniques for communicating data limitations to stakeholders, building defensible business cases that acknowledge what is known and unknown, and establishing ethical guardrails for data use in consequential decisions.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Systematically identify, gather, and critically evaluate evidence from multiple sources including organisational data, scientific research, stakeholder perspectives, and professional experience to diagnose complex problems in digital business contexts, assessing the quality, reliability, and applicability of evidence while identifying gaps, conflicts, and biases. [KS 1.2, HO 2.1]
- Synthesise evidence to develop justified recommendations for digital business challenges by evaluating alternative solutions against the evidence base, articulating how evidence shapes decision-making, and acknowledging limitations and uncertainties in both evidence and conclusions. [HO 2.2, PC 3.1, SE 5.1]
- Design measurement approaches to evaluate the implementation and outcomes of evidence-based management decisions in digital business initiatives.. [KS 1.2, HO 2.2]
- Reflect critically on personal decision-making practices by analysing specific examples of professional judgment, identifying cognitive biases and evidence gaps in one's own approach, and developing strategies for continuous improvement in evidence-based practice. [HO 2.1, 2.2, TS 4.1]
Content
Content in this unit focuses on evidence-based decision-making and professional judgement in data-rich but uncertain business environments. Topics include evidence hierarchies and quality assessment; evaluating data reliability, bias, and fitness-for-purpose; triangulating insights from organisational data, research, and stakeholder perspectives; structured decision frameworks for complex problems; decision-making under uncertainty; cognitive and organisational biases; communicating evidence limitations and confidence levels to stakeholders; building defensible, evidence-based business cases; ethical and responsible use of data in consequential decisions; and measurement and evaluation approaches for decision outcomes. Case-based analysis is used to develop practical judgement, critical thinking, and applied decision capability.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply advanced, integrated discipline and professional practice knowledge, including relevant research principles and methods, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge to investigate digitally enhanced business environments.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
3.2 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
4.2 Apply collaborative capabilities to work effectively in diverse teams and across complex, interdisciplinary business environments.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
5.2 Apply socially responsible and sustainability-focused thinking to analyse business issues and reflect on the broader impact of organisations in national and global contexts.
Learning Approaches
Learning in this unit is structured around case-based analysis and the applied use of evidence-based decision frameworks. You will engage with realistic business scenarios drawn from data-rich and uncertain environments, where you practise diagnosing problems, evaluating evidence quality, and forming defensible judgements. Guided learning activities emphasise structured decision tools, evidence triangulation, and critical evaluation of competing information sources. Through iterative case analysis, you test alternative interpretations, justify recommendations, and communicate evidence limitations and confidence levels. This applied, case-driven approach supports the development of professional judgement, critical thinking, and reflective decision practice consistent with evidence-based management in contemporary business contexts.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
This unit includes three interconnected assessment items which demonstrate your achievement of the unit's learning outcomes. The first assessment item establishes the foundation for your final project and allows for formative feedback on your evidence-gathering and critical evaluation skills before you proceed to the second assessment item focussing on solutions and recommendations. The final assessment item provides you with an opportunity to reflect on your professional decision-making practices.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review
You will select a current digital business challenge from your workplace (or a substantial provided case) and produce a diagnostic report that: (a) clearly defines and scopes the problem or decision, (b) systematically identifies and gathers relevant evidence from multiple sources (organisational data, research literature, stakeholder perspectives, professional experience), and (c) critically evaluates the quality, reliability, and applicability of each evidence source, identifying gaps, conflicts, and biases in the available evidence. This component establishes the foundation for your final project and allows for formative feedback on your evidence-gathering and critical evaluation skills before you proceed to solutions and recommendations.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative and Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), HO (2.1)
Assessment: Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
Building on the problem diagnosis from Assessment 1 and incorporating feedback received, you will complete your evidence-based management project by: (a) identifying and evaluating potential solutions or courses of action against the evidence base, (b) synthesising their analysis to arrive at justified recommendations that explicitly show how evidence shaped the decision, (c) acknowledging limitations, uncertainties, and areas requiring further evidence, and (d) proposing how the implementation and outcomes should be measured.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), HO (2.2), PC (3.1), SE (5.1)
Assessment: Reflective Account
You will present a reflective account examining your professional decision-making practices before, during, and beyond this unit. You will analyse specific examples where your approach to evidence has changed, identify persistent biases or blind spots, evaluate how evidence-based management principles challenge or reinforce your existing practices, and articulate a developmental pathway for ongoing improvement.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
This assessment item is Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the Unit Canvas site.
This assessment item requires your attendance at your scheduled tutorial/session.
The late submission period does not apply, and no assignment extensions are available.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): (HO 2.1, 2.2), TS (4.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
Eric Barends and Denise M. Rousseau (2025), Evidence-Based Decision Making - For Organizations, Public Policy and Practice (2nd Edition), CEBMa, distributed by VitalSource, ISBN: 9789082695755
Students are required to have their own copy.
Other resources
Additional readings will be available on the Unit Canvas site.
Other
Laptop Requirement: To support interactive learning and in-class activities, students are expected to bring a fully charged laptop (or compatible device) to each scheduled class. This ensures you can participate in digital exercises, access online resources, and collaborate effectively with peers.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the ordinary risks associated with learning and teaching activities this unit.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate) 2027
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account
KS (1.2): Technical and Technological Skills
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS12 Master of Business
- Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge in digitally enhanced business environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
BS36 Graduate Certificate in Digital Business and Innovation
- Apply technical, digital, and research skills to organise, interpret, and evaluate discipline knowledge and practice to investigate business issues in digitally enhanced environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate real-world business issues and challenges using analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of interdisciplinary knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise innovative thinking and intellectual independence to make informed decisions and judgements in planning evidence-based responses to complex and evolving business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information literacy skills to communicate effectively in written forms and through appropriate digital media, tailored to diverse professional and organisational audiences.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Demonstrate self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for continuous learning and effective professional practice in dynamic business environments.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
BS68 Graduate Diploma in Business
- Apply technical, digital, and research skills to organise, interpret, and evaluate discipline knowledge and practice to investigate business issues in digitally enhanced environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate real-world business issues and challenges using analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of interdisciplinary knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise innovative thinking and intellectual independence to make informed decisions and judgements in planning evidence-based responses to complex and evolving business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information literacy skills to communicate effectively in written forms and through appropriate digital media, tailored to diverse professional and organisational audiences.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Demonstrate self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for continuous learning and effective professional practice in dynamic business environments.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2027, Online
| Unit code: | BSN453 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
Overview
Mid-level managers in technology-enabled environments face a persistent dilemma: they're expected to make data-driven decisions, but data is rarely complete, often contradictory, and frequently too messy to yield clear answers. This unit teaches evidence-based decision-making frameworks for operational contexts where data is abundant but imperfect. You will learn to assess data quality and fitness-for-purpose, triangulate insights from multiple incomplete sources, and apply structured decision frameworks to facilitate business transformation in a data-rich world. The unit covers practical techniques for communicating data limitations to stakeholders, building defensible business cases that acknowledge what is known and unknown, and establishing ethical guardrails for data use in consequential decisions.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Systematically identify, gather, and critically evaluate evidence from multiple sources including organisational data, scientific research, stakeholder perspectives, and professional experience to diagnose complex problems in digital business contexts, assessing the quality, reliability, and applicability of evidence while identifying gaps, conflicts, and biases. [KS 1.2, HO 2.1]
- Synthesise evidence to develop justified recommendations for digital business challenges by evaluating alternative solutions against the evidence base, articulating how evidence shapes decision-making, and acknowledging limitations and uncertainties in both evidence and conclusions. [HO 2.2, PC 3.1, SE 5.1]
- Design measurement approaches to evaluate the implementation and outcomes of evidence-based management decisions in digital business initiatives.. [KS 1.2, HO 2.2]
- Reflect critically on personal decision-making practices by analysing specific examples of professional judgment, identifying cognitive biases and evidence gaps in one's own approach, and developing strategies for continuous improvement in evidence-based practice. [HO 2.1, 2.2, TS 4.1]
Content
Content in this unit focuses on evidence-based decision-making and professional judgement in data-rich but uncertain business environments. Topics include evidence hierarchies and quality assessment; evaluating data reliability, bias, and fitness-for-purpose; triangulating insights from organisational data, research, and stakeholder perspectives; structured decision frameworks for complex problems; decision-making under uncertainty; cognitive and organisational biases; communicating evidence limitations and confidence levels to stakeholders; building defensible, evidence-based business cases; ethical and responsible use of data in consequential decisions; and measurement and evaluation approaches for decision outcomes. Case-based analysis is used to develop practical judgement, critical thinking, and applied decision capability.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply advanced, integrated discipline and professional practice knowledge, including relevant research principles and methods, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge to investigate digitally enhanced business environments.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
3.2 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
4.2 Apply collaborative capabilities to work effectively in diverse teams and across complex, interdisciplinary business environments.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
5.2 Apply socially responsible and sustainability-focused thinking to analyse business issues and reflect on the broader impact of organisations in national and global contexts.
Learning Approaches
Learning in this unit is structured around case-based analysis and the applied use of evidence-based decision frameworks. You will engage with realistic business scenarios drawn from data-rich and uncertain environments, where you practise diagnosing problems, evaluating evidence quality, and forming defensible judgements. Guided learning activities emphasise structured decision tools, evidence triangulation, and critical evaluation of competing information sources. Through iterative case analysis, you test alternative interpretations, justify recommendations, and communicate evidence limitations and confidence levels. This applied, case-driven approach supports the development of professional judgement, critical thinking, and reflective decision practice consistent with evidence-based management in contemporary business contexts.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
This unit includes three interconnected assessment items which demonstrate your achievement of the unit's learning outcomes. The first assessment item establishes the foundation for your final project and allows for formative feedback on your evidence-gathering and critical evaluation skills before you proceed to the second assessment item focussing on solutions and recommendations. The final assessment item provides you with an opportunity to reflect on your professional decision-making practices.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review
You will select a current digital business challenge from your workplace (or a substantial provided case) and produce a diagnostic report that: (a) clearly defines and scopes the problem or decision, (b) systematically identifies and gathers relevant evidence from multiple sources (organisational data, research literature, stakeholder perspectives, professional experience), and (c) critically evaluates the quality, reliability, and applicability of each evidence source, identifying gaps, conflicts, and biases in the available evidence. This component establishes the foundation for your final project and allows for formative feedback on your evidence-gathering and critical evaluation skills before you proceed to solutions and recommendations.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative and Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), HO (2.1)
Assessment: Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
Building on the problem diagnosis from Assessment 1 and incorporating feedback received, you will complete your evidence-based management project by: (a) identifying and evaluating potential solutions or courses of action against the evidence base, (b) synthesising their analysis to arrive at justified recommendations that explicitly show how evidence shaped the decision, (c) acknowledging limitations, uncertainties, and areas requiring further evidence, and (d) proposing how the implementation and outcomes should be measured.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), HO (2.2), PC (3.1), SE (5.1)
Assessment: Reflective Account
You will present a reflective account examining your professional decision-making practices before, during, and beyond this unit. You will analyse specific examples where your approach to evidence has changed, identify persistent biases or blind spots, evaluate how evidence-based management principles challenge or reinforce your existing practices, and articulate a developmental pathway for ongoing improvement.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
This assessment item is Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the Unit Canvas site.
This assessment item requires your attendance at your scheduled tutorial/session.
The late submission period does not apply, and no assignment extensions are available.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): (HO 2.1, 2.2), TS (4.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
Eric Barends and Denise M. Rousseau (2025), Evidence-Based Decision Making - For Organizations, Public Policy and Practice (2nd Edition), CEBMa, distributed by VitalSource, ISBN: 9789082695755
Students are required to have their own copy.
Other resources
Additional readings will be available on the Unit Canvas site.
Other
Laptop Requirement: To support interactive learning and in-class activities, students are expected to bring a fully charged laptop (or compatible device) to each scheduled class. This ensures you can participate in digital exercises, access online resources, and collaborate effectively with peers.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the ordinary risks associated with learning and teaching activities this unit.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate) 2027
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account
KS (1.2): Technical and Technological Skills
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS12 Master of Business
- Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge in digitally enhanced business environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
BS36 Graduate Certificate in Digital Business and Innovation
- Apply technical, digital, and research skills to organise, interpret, and evaluate discipline knowledge and practice to investigate business issues in digitally enhanced environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate real-world business issues and challenges using analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of interdisciplinary knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise innovative thinking and intellectual independence to make informed decisions and judgements in planning evidence-based responses to complex and evolving business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information literacy skills to communicate effectively in written forms and through appropriate digital media, tailored to diverse professional and organisational audiences.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Demonstrate self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for continuous learning and effective professional practice in dynamic business environments.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations
BS68 Graduate Diploma in Business
- Apply technical, digital, and research skills to organise, interpret, and evaluate discipline knowledge and practice to investigate business issues in digitally enhanced environments.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Critically investigate real-world business issues and challenges using analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of interdisciplinary knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Problem Diagnosis and Evidence Review, Reflective Account - Exercise innovative thinking and intellectual independence to make informed decisions and judgements in planning evidence-based responses to complex and evolving business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations, Reflective Account - Use information literacy skills to communicate effectively in written forms and through appropriate digital media, tailored to diverse professional and organisational audiences.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations - Demonstrate self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for continuous learning and effective professional practice in dynamic business environments.
Relates to: ULO4, Reflective Account - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2, Solution Evaluation and Recommendations