Responsible AI and Digital Pedagogies for Responsible Management Learning and Education, in the UK
This study responds to current UK policy signals that place digital environments, data, equity of participation, and responsible AI at the centre of quality and student experience, and to REF’s continued emphasis on demonstrable impact - making robust pedagogy-to-impact evaluation both timely and essential.
Research Opportunities
Summary
This doctoral study aims to investigate how UK business schools integrate responsible AI and evidence-based digital pedagogies - such as AI-enabled simulations, online and hybrid problem-based learning, connectivist networks, and PRME i5 approaches - to advance Responsible Management Learning and Education (RMLE), with measurable gains in ethical reasoning, sustainability literacy, accessibility, and student engagement. As a global initiative of the United Nations Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), RMLE underscore the relevance of embedding ethics, sustainability, and social responsibility in management curricula. Considering the UK higher education is increasingly shaped by digital transformation, this research project will address urgent questions about pedagogy, ethics, and policy alignment.
Building on Ndubuka (2020), which found the REF can both facilitate and constrain RMLE implementation in UK business schools - yet aligns with Responsible Management Learning and Education via a shared focus and emphasis on impact.
The proposed doctoral study will employ a mixed-methods research design across four phases, including:
- Phase 1: A systematic review and realist synthesis of digital RMLE And ethical AI frameworks.
- Phase 2: Multi-site case studies across selected PRME signatory business schools using mixed methods (interviews, focus groups, analytics).
- Phase 3: Co-design and pilot of an Ethical Digital Responsible Management Learning and Education Pedagogy Framework and toolkits.
- Phase 4: Impact evaluation and knowledge exchange with stakeholders (employers, policy bodies, PRME).
Indicative reference: Ndubuka, N. N. (2020). An exploration of the influence of the Research Excellence Framework on the implementation of responsible management education in UK business schools. PhD Thesis, Robert Gordon University.
Ideal Doctoral Candidate
- Strong academic background, preferably in management education, digital learning, or educational technology (Master’s level or equivalent).
- Interest in Responsible Management Learning and Education and familiarity with related principles (e.g., PRME, sustainability, ethics, equity, social responsibility).
- Familiarity with ethical AI principles and frameworks (fairness, accountability, transparency).
- Competence in mixed-methods research design and stakeholder engagement.
- Interest in policy alignment within UK higher education sector.
- Adaptable and collaborative, capable of working with diverse institutions and navigating ethical considerations in AI and data governance.
- Be committed to undertake the study on a full-time basis.
Supervisors
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Research Theme
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About our Research Degrees
We welcome specific ideas from applicants for a potential research degree topic. The University offers a number of potential self-funded topics in each School which you could consider developing your research project around.
It is not unusual for a proposed research degree topic to evolve as you progress through the application stage and even your future studies. This ensures the best match of your academic/professional experience with that of your supervisory team.
Occasionally, the University will also advertise available funded studentships, for very specific topics or subjects:
If you need any further support prior to applying, please email researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk
Entry requirements
Entry Requirements for Research Degrees
Normal entry requirements are a first or upper second class honours degree from a University of the United Kingdom, or from an overseas University, or degree equivalent qualification, subject to the approval of Robert Gordon University.
Applicants holding other qualifications shall be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the proposed research programme.
Applicants will normally register for an MSc/PhD or MRes/PhD with transfer to PhD dependent on satisfactory progress. However, applicants who already possess a Master’s degree which includes a significant research component could be registered directly for a PhD, subject to a satisfactory research proposal, and clear evidence of research expertise.
Some Research Degree Topics require employment experience, research experience and/or transcripts for international qualifications.
Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk to see if you are eligible.
English Language
Any applicant whose first language or language of previous University-level instruction is not English must normally demonstrate competence in English. This should be a score of IELTS 6.5 with 6.5 in all elements, or an approved equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Fees & Costs
For Academic Year 2025/2026
UK Students
- Full time - £5,006 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £3,000 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £3,000 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £17,490 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £10,490 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £10,490 per academic year
For Academic Year 2024/2025
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £4,786 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £2,870 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £2,390 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £19,450 per academic year
- Part-time MPhil/PhD - £11,670 per academic year
- Part-time MRes/MSc by research - £9,720 per academic year
Additional Costs
Some other costs are not included in the course fees:
- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
- Costs associated with any placement / study abroad
- Accommodation and Living Costs
- Printing
Alumni Discount
Robert Gordon University is delighted to offer a 20% discount on course fees for all alumni who have graduated from RGU.
Scholarships and Financial Awards
Postgraduate research students will normally make their own arrangements for payment of fees. However you may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Funded Studentships
Occasionally, the University will also advertise available funded studentships, for very specific topics or subjects:
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
How to Apply
Applications
All applications should be made via the University's online application for research students.
Before you apply, find out more about the application process, research proposal writing guides, routes and durations:
Our Research degrees usually start in February and October each year. There are no formal deadlines for you to submit your application, though we recommend you submit it as early as possible in order to ensure we can help you join us at your preferred time.
Completed application forms should be accompanied by:
- Degree certificate
- Statement of purpose, detailing why you would like to study this degree in the UK, and why you have chosen RGU.
- A short research proposal, in the range of 1,500 - 3,000 words, containing a rationale and background, study aims and objectives, a literature review, proposed research methods and a full reference list.
Further guidance on the application process:
English Language Requirements
All applicants whose first language is not from a recognised English speaking country will be asked to provide evidence of their English language skills as part of their offer to study at RGU.
Find out more about the English language qualification we accept:
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