Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit aims to equip students with the knowledge to successfully plan and execute their research projects (semesters two and three), and (b) provide them with an understanding of, and the basic skills required for, careers as science and technology professionals.
Topics covered by this Unit include;

• The role of science in society
• Research methodology
• Diffusion of innovation and knowledge management
• Proposal development and project management

Objectives

Specific objectives of this unit include:

1. Comment on the history and evolving role of science in society
2. Differentiate between basic qualitative and quantitative research methods as well as contemporary approaches to research such as action research, inter- and transdisciplinary research, post-normal science and sustainability science
3. Examine the process of knowledge creation and its relationship with technological innovation and diffusion
4. Synthesize the history and theories of project management as well as the project management cycle and apply this in specific project activities
5. Apply the essential tools of project management relating to project planning and resourcing
6. Recognise the need and plan for social, technological, environmental, economic and political contexts in project design and rollout
7. Apply monitoring and evaluation and risk management in the project cycle.

Contact hours

1 week of lectures (5-6 hours of lectures/seminars per day) + 1 week reading, case studies, self study, tutorial, short course, guest lecturer, discussions

Co-requisites

WTR4002, WTR2003 and WTR4004