Aims

To bring students to a common level of understanding of the key elements of up to date marine project management, including the application of work breakdown structures, hierarchical planning, the development of a build strategy, performance measurement and the use of computer aided planning tools. To introduce students to new management tools including discrete event simulation

Outline Of Syllabus

The module will cover the following topics:

The need for and application of an appropriate work breakdown structure and the use of a hierarchical structure for planning. The use of computer aided planning tools, concentrating on benefits and pitfalls rather than training in use of a particular system. The development of a build strategy for a project, its form, content and benefits. Performance measurement as a basis for planning and measurement progress.

This module will include preschool reading, examples, an intensive school (five days), and a postschool assignment.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Students are encouraged to develop their knowledge and understanding of the subject by independent reading for which they are given guidance in the distance learning material (IKO1-5). The preschool study is reinforced via lectures during the intensive school itself. The use of design during the intensive school, a work-based assessment and application after the intensive school also enable the students to learn. Subject specific skills (e.g. IT and project planning) are developed via the distance learning material, which is delivered by a web-based system (blackboard). Cognitive skills (problem solving/ decision making) are taught primarily through case studies and design classes, and developed through a work based assignment. Key transferable skills (communication, time management, ability to work alone etc) are developed through a work based post school assignment and via completion of the module itself, including the distance learning material (ISO1-9).

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Knowledge and understanding are assessed via the unseen written examination and the written assignment. Subject-specific and cognitive skills are assed via design exercises and the module assignment, as are communication skills.

The Graduate Skills Framework Skills indicated as 'A' are also assessed in this way.