MSc Construction Project Management

This course unit is delivered throughout semester 1 and 2. The first semester is delivered by the University Centre for Academic English (UCAE), who work with students to improve their academic practice and academic writing skills. The literature research and written communication skills developed through the Semester 1 academic practice sessions are relevant to all other units and the dissertation - in particular referencing, critical thinking and academic writing.

In semester 2 the unit focuses more on research methods relevant to project management - this is particularly important for preparing for the dissertation. The class discuss different research methodologies and develop skills in analysing published research. As well as discussing literature review techniques, quantitative and qualitative data collection and data analysis approaches are also covered.

The aim of this unit is to develop students' ability to: Research, evaluate and review academic literature and other sources of data; Think critically, cite data sources and communicate clearly in written English; and Conduct research related to project management and, more specifically, to carry out the written coursework and the dissertation component of the MSc programme successfully.

ILO 1 - Apply their knowledge and understanding of research methodology design processes and methodologies to reviewing data collection and analysis methods, including applying and adapting them to unfamiliar situations.

ILO 2 - Search and identify related literature from different information sources. Be aware of the tools for information retrieval and know how to develop a methodology for retrieving and evaluating relevant information.

ILO 3 - Critically apply project management theory and practice to their selected dissertation topic area.

ILO 4 - Describe the reasons for a high level of professional and ethical conduct in research activities.

ILO 5 - Use time and project management skills to plan a research study.

The unit introduces the principles of research design and illustrates the application of alternative research methods to research problems related to project management.
Key aspects of carrying out a literature review are covered, including: searching for and selecting relevant literature; summarising findings and how such findings are evidenced; writing a coherent and well-structured review; critically engaging with others' work; synthesising findings from the review and applying these to one's own project.

2 pieces of coursework, worth 60% and 40% of the overall marks for the unit.

Students receive feedback on their written report through Blackboard. In addition to individual comments and a mark for each section, a qualitative rubric classification is given for each section (allowing comparison of different levels of performance).Students receive feedback on their written report through Blackboard. In addition to individual comments and a mark for each section, a qualitative rubric classification is given for each section (allowing comparison of different levels of performance).