OPM5001 - Project as a social system - 2019

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.

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.

In-semester assessment: 100%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. The unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Project management