TECHCOMM 7024NA - Complex Project Management 1

Ngee Ann Academy - Trimester 3 - 2014

The context of the course is identification and management of complexity across multiple complex project domains. The objectives of this course are to focus on Complex projects, that is those which integrate autonomous and independent projects, which are normally linked nodes. Such projects have high degrees of emergence, high internal and external system complexity and usually have large life cycle costs. Such projects require the project team to learn during the life of the project in order to clarify what is required and consequently how to deliver it. Content includes a review of general systems theory, a review of the key areas supporting systems engineering and then focuses on system of systems topics of incremental commitment project delivery methods, developing project architecture, developing project requirements and understanding and managing people differently to traditional projects by recognising culture and values, encouraging dissent, assisting sensemaking and supporting developing patterns of work behaviour rather than a top-down specification of duties. The application is to traditional System of Systems, supply chain management, enterprise systems, operating in a foreign culture, disaster management, terrorism and other complex systems. Tools addressed include leadership and management of complex systems projects, Checkland's soft systems methodology of rich pictures, root definition and CATWOE; systems dynamics, Senge's systems thinking, Bosch's mental models and development of meaning.

  • General Course Information
    Course Details
    Course Code TECHCOMM 7024NA
    Course Complex Project Management 1
    Coordinating Unit Entrepreneurship, Commercialisation & Innov Centre
    Term Trimester 3
    Level Postgraduate Coursework
    Location/s Ngee Ann Academy
    Units 3
    Assumed Knowledge TECHCOMM 5021
    Assessment assignments
    Course Staff

    Course Coordinator: Emeritus Professor Vernon Ireland

    Course Timetable

    The full timetable of all activities for this course can be accessed from Course Planner.

  • Learning Outcomes
    Course Learning Outcomes
    1 Knowledge and understanding of the latest research and development of system of systems (SoS) principles to projects and how these contrast with traditional systems engineering based projects;
    2  Application of research and professional practice tools, and soft systems methodologies, to a range of contemporary issue such as climate change, terrorism, the global financial crises and disputes between waring communities
    3 Identification and use of the latest research findings on system of systems
    4 The application of SoS research in the development of potential solutions to contemporary issue such as climate change, terrorism, the global financial crises and disputes between waring communities individually and in groups
    5 Ability to explain and gain resolution of issues and provide confidence to stakeholders
    6 Recognition that different interpersonal skills are required on SoS project
    7 Use of state-of-the-art processes and techniques developed in defence, IT&T and software industries
    8 Recognition that SoS is a developing discipline and commitment to keep up to date
    9 Recognition of the need to lead project teams and bring them from a systems engineering perspective to a SoS perspective
    10 Understanding of the need to maintain ethical, social and cultural standards on projects.
    University Graduate Attributes

    This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attribute(s) specified below:

    University Graduate Attribute Course Learning Outcome(s)
    Knowledge and understanding of the content and techniques of a chosen discipline at advanced levels that are internationally recognised. 1-2
    The ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner. 3
    An ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and cooperatively, to current and future problems. 4
    Skills of a high order in interpersonal understanding, teamwork and communication. 5-6
    A proficiency in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies. 7
    A commitment to continuous learning and the capacity to maintain intellectual curiosity throughout life. 8
    A commitment to the highest standards of professional endeavour and the ability to take a leadership role in the community. 9
    An awareness of ethical, social and cultural issues within a global context and their importance in the exercise of professional skills and responsibilities. 10
  • Learning & Teaching Activities
    Learning & Teaching Modes

    No information currently available.

    Workload

    No information currently available.

    Learning Activities Summary

    No information currently available.

  • Assessment

    The University's policy on Assessment for Coursework Programs is based on the following four principles:

    1. Assessment must encourage and reinforce learning.
    2. Assessment must enable robust and fair judgements about student performance.
    3. Assessment practices must be fair and equitable to students and give them the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned.
    4. Assessment must maintain academic standards.

    Assessment Summary

    No information currently available.

    Assessment Detail

    No information currently available.

    Submission

    No information currently available.

    Course Grading

    Grades for your performance in this course will be awarded in accordance with the following scheme:

    M10 (Coursework Mark Scheme)
    Grade Mark Description
    FNS   Fail No Submission
    F 1-49 Fail
    P 50-64 Pass
    C 65-74 Credit
    D 75-84 Distinction
    HD 85-100 High Distinction
    CN   Continuing
    NFE   No Formal Examination
    RP   Result Pending

    Further details of the grades/results can be obtained from Examinations.

    Grade Descriptors are available which provide a general guide to the standard of work that is expected at each grade level. More information at Assessment for Coursework Programs.

    Final results for this course will be made available through Access Adelaide.

  • Student Feedback

    The University places a high priority on approaches to learning and teaching that enhance the student experience. Feedback is sought from students in a variety of ways including on-going engagement with staff, the use of online discussion boards and the use of Student Experience of Learning and Teaching (SELT) surveys as well as GOS surveys and Program reviews.

    SELTs are an important source of information to inform individual teaching practice, decisions about teaching duties, and course and program curriculum design. They enable the University to assess how effectively its learning environments and teaching practices facilitate student engagement and learning outcomes. Under the current SELT Policy (http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/101/) course SELTs are mandated and must be conducted at the conclusion of each term/semester/trimester for every course offering. Feedback on issues raised through course SELT surveys is made available to enrolled students through various resources (e.g. MyUni). In addition aggregated course SELT data is available.

  • Student Support
  • Policies & Guidelines
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