Introduction
Project management is a cornerstone of successful engineering projects, ensuring that objectives are met on time and within budget. Effective project management is essential for aligning resources, managing risks, and maintaining communication among stakeholders. This case study highlights the innovative redesign of a project management module by the Rethinking Engineering Education in Ireland (REEdI) team at Munster Technological University (MTU) and its delivery to industry professionals at Astellas Pharma.
Importance of Project Management Skills for Engineers
Engineers operate in environments where precision, efficiency, and collaboration are crucial. Project management skills enable engineers to:
- Set and achieve clear goals.
- Efficiently allocate resources.
- Mitigate risks and manage changes.
- Communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders.
- Deliver projects that meet or exceed expectations.
The REEdI team’s project management module at MTU exemplifies how targeted education can enhance these skills among engineering professionals.
Innovative Redesign of the Project Management Module
The REEdI team at MTU redesigned a Level 7, 10-credit project management module to incorporate several innovative features:
- Blended Delivery: The module is delivered both online and on-site, providing flexibility and accommodating diverse learning preferences.
- Educational Theory and Pedagogy: The redesign is grounded in educational theory, focusing on activating prior knowledge and building upon it.
- Learner-Centered Facilitation: The module is designed to be learner-centered, incorporating active learning and engaging exercises in each lecture.
- Diverse Learning Strategies: Various strategies, including team-building workshops, communication workshops using the LEGO Serious Play method, project management podcasts, and analysis of real-life case studies from the Project Management Institute (PMI), are used to enhance learning.
These features ensure that participants not only learn theoretical aspects of project management but also gain practical skills through immersive experiences.
RTP Approval by Engineers Ireland
The module’s RTP (Registered Training Provider) approval by Engineers Ireland signifies its high quality and relevance to professional development. This approval means:
- The module meets rigorous quality standards.
- It is recognized as contributing effectively to the professional competency of engineers.
- Participants can trust the module to provide valuable, industry-relevant skills.
Module Delivery to Astellas Pharma Professionals
In 2023, the REEdI team delivered this project management module to 22 industry professionals at Astellas Pharma in Killorglin. Over a semester, these professionals engaged in comprehensive project management training that combined theoretical knowledge with practical application.
Certification Ceremony
In early 2024, a team from MTU, including MTU president Professor Maggie Cusack, visited the Astellas Pharma plant to present the participants with their certificates. This event marked the successful completion of the module and celebrated the participants’ achievements.
Conclusion
The redesign and successful delivery of the project management module by the REEdI team at MTU demonstrates the critical role of project management skills for engineers. By incorporating innovative teaching methods and securing RTP approval, MTU ensures that its graduates are well-equipped to manage complex projects and contribute significantly to their industries.
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