Key Project Management Techniques and Skills Module

BSC194 Project Management

About This Module The purpose of this module is to enable students to gain knowledge about key project management techniques and to help students develop skills that might be needed to manage projects in the modern workplace. It also takes a broad holistic view of projects, focusing not just on project management techniques but also on interpersonal skills and business issues that are relevant in managing projects, such as teamwork and communication.

Range of topics covered The module will include key techniques for planning and controlling projects, managing resources and estimation, and quality control. The role of the project manager will be analysed. A holistic view of project management will be taken by examining other relevant key skills and processes in relation to projects. These include decision making, knowledge management, communication and problem solving.

Teaching and Learning The module is taught through nine 2 hour lectures and two two hour tutorials (the tutorials allow for smaller class size) Lectures concentrate on key topics in the module, both on theoretical perspectives and on practical topics. Where possible guest lecturers are also invited to share current experience and best practice. The tutorials are a key part of the module and attendance is expected as group work is undertaken; practical ideas are explored in these sessions. Students will be expected to arrange some group meetings in- between tutorials. Students are also expected to engage with wider reading between lectures.

Assessment and Feedback This module is assessed by 40% group coursework, 2500 words (max) There is also an individual exam, worth 60% of the module mark The output from the tutorial group work is not assessed but informs the coursework; feedback on coursework ideas will be discussed in these sessions. Detailed group feedback is provided via Learn for the coursework submission and informal feedback on coursework ideas will be given during tutorials Generic feedback on the exam will be provided

Reading material There is no one core text for this module, instead reading will be obtained from a variety of sources, including academic articles, books, reports, websites etc.

Why choose this module? At its most fundamental, project management is about people getting things done Dr Martin Barnes, APM President. Projects are a fundamental part of organisational activity, irrespective of industry. Organisations need people with the skills to plan and organise projects, who can control and manage resources, and deliver timely results that are aligned to business goals and requirements. But project management is about more than just making charts and plans; as the quote above demonstrates, project management involves people doing things and therefore skills to manage people are also important. A good project manager not only makes sure quality and objectives are met on time and on budget, but also manages stakeholders, effectively shares knowledge, and gets the best out of their team. This module will mix theory and practice in a holistic view of managing projects, which are sought after skills in the workplace. For further information contact the module leader Dr Clare Ravenwood via email - j.c.f.ravenwood@lboro.ac.uk