This module aims to develop in the student, the ability to select, develop and plan an MSc research project; to research and critically analyse the literature associated with the project; to present research findings effectively; and to be able to apply a competent process of thinking to all aspects of the project. In addition, the module aims to give the student an appreciation of the relationship between these skills and those associated with industrial project management.

Learning Outcomes involve:

On completion of this module, the student should be able to:
- Search and critically analyse associated literature on their research topic.
- Think critically, effectively and efficiently about their research work and
the reported work of others.
- Plan and manage a research project within the time and resource
constraints imposed.
- Critically analyse project management methods used in case studies.
- Use project management concepts and techniques in relevant situations.

Teaching/Learning Strategy:

Study pack, exercises, role-playing, research presentations, lectures, seminars and case studies.

Syllabus:

The teaching syllabus will cover the following areas:

Project Management Principles
Concepts of project management, critical analysis of factors in success and failure of projects. Organisational design for projects. Developing a project budget. Risk management. Closure.

Selecting and Justifying Research Topic
Topic selection processes; techniques for generating research topics, feasibility of research purposes; value of research; scope of research; selection of supervisor(s).

Planning the Project
Tools for planning, monitoring and control.
Critical evaluation of differences between full-time and part-time modes of study. Working with constraints.

Running a Project
Organising and managing projects.
Searching: techniques to carry out literature survey; computer searches; roles of supervisor(s) and librarian.
Thinking and analysing: Analyses of processes associated with 'good' thinking to include using evidence skilfully and impartially; looking for unusual approaches to complex problems; understanding the differences among conclusions, assumptions and hypotheses;

Presentation of Research Findings
Oral presentation techniques; poster presentation techniques and written presentation techniques; structure, style and content.

Indicative Reading:

Relevant topics from the following:

The Management of a Student Research Project, K Howard and JA Sharp, Gower Publishing, 1993

Teaching Thinking Skills, JB Baron and RJ Steinberg, Freeman & Co., 1987

Project Management, H Maylor, (1999) Pitman Publishing, ISBN 0 273 61236 0.

Project management, C F Gray and E W Larson. McGraw-Hill (2000) ISBN 0-07-116316-6

Levine, S J (2003) Writing and Presenting your Thesis or Dissertation
http://www.cla.sc.edu/LING/grad/advising/Dissertation-Thesis-Guide.htm
(Accessed 19-04-04)

Sunyit Thesis Handbook
http://www.tele.sunyit.edu/Thesis Handbook.html
(Accessed 19-04-04)

Transferable Skills:

Apply critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis to issues. Identify, conceptualise and plan complex issues. Deal with complex issues and make informed judgements in the absence of complete data.
Development of higher level communicative skills.

This MSc module: Project Planning and Management course is taught over one week and consists of intensive lectures, laboratories, seminars and case studies. A further 2 weeks is left for self study. The assessment consists of two courseworks, with a 60% and 40% weighting respectively.

The course is held at a Scottish University and is worth 15 credit points. It can be taken on its own merit as CPD (continuous professional development) or towards a PgC or PgD in Maintenance Management or as in most cases a MSc in Maintenance Management.

This MSc module: Project Planning and Management course is suitable for students/delegates who possess at least a degree in a engineering discipline. A-1 Technical Training, logis-Tech Associates provide added tuitional support to all attendees in this module for a small fee.

The next in-take to the MSc in Maintenance Management is September 2005 - numbers are limited. For more details on the MSc in Maintenance Management, please complete the request for information form or email hugo@logis-tech.co.uk.