OPM5001 - Project as a social system - 2018

6 points, SCA Band 3, 0.125 EFTSL

Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Faculty

Information Technology

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Gro Bjerknes

Not offered in 2018

Prerequisites

At least 12 points of level 4 OPM units.

Prohibitions

FIT5057, FIT5178, FIT5194

Synopsis

This unit explores projects as primarily social constructs, where sense-making and adaptive behaviours are required to accommodate local contexts, dynamics, and personal attributes. The perception of projects as primarily a process is critically examined. The concepts of systems thinking and cultural practices are explored to develop an understanding of the interrelationships between various elements of a project, and the environment in which they are executed.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

  • Critique the theory and concepts of systems thinking applied in a project management context.
  • Appraise and evaluate adaptive behaviours between a project and its environment using the theory of sense-making.
  • Interpret the differences between a social construct and a technical process when managing projects.
  • Manage the interaction between a project and its environment.

Assessment

In-semester assessment: 100%

Workload requirements

Workshop; which comprise lectures and tutorials in block-mode workshops held twice during the semester for two and a half consecutive days, with up to 140 hours of combined face-to-face time attending workshops and off-campus preparation and assessment work.

See also Unit timetable information

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study