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Study information

Work-Based Project 2

Module titleWork-Based Project 2
Module codePOLM896DA
Academic year2023/4
Credits30
Module staff

Dr Maya Vachkova (Convenor)

Duration: Term123
Duration: Weeks

21

Number students taking module (anticipated)

40

Module description

This is the last module in the Systems Thinking in the Public Sector MSc. The module presents an opportunity to develop practical skills in planning, designing and executing systemic interventions in the workplace. Apprentices are strongly encouraged to use the time this module offers, to plan activities that will aid the completion of their e-portfolio. As individual learning journeys are different to every student completing the e-portfolio would entail planning action on different KSBs. Throughout the module, apprentices will have the opportunity to talk to members of the Exeter team and reflect on their systemic applications and will also present to their colleagues to enhance the collaborative learning aspect of the apprenticeship.  

Module aims - intentions of the module

Module three provides apprentices with the opportunity to evidence any of the KSBs from the IATE Systems Thinking Practitioner standard with a specific emphasis on skills and behaviours.  

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

ILO: Module-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

  • 1. Demonstrate sound practical knowledge of systemic approaches
  • 2. Compile, manage and edit a portfolio of evidence in support of own progression against the Systems Thinking Practitioner standard

ILO: Discipline-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

  • 3. Apply systems thinking in practice
  • 4. Demonstrate effective project design and management skills

ILO: Personal and key skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

  • 5. Develop autonomous learning skills, notably self-direction and time management
  • 6. Present, evaluate and synthesise complex arguments effectively in writing

Syllabus plan

Whilst the module’s precise content may vary from year to year, it is envisaged that the syllabus will cover some or all of the following topics to support apprentices:

  • Qualitative and quantitative research and data collection methods
  • Project planning and design
  • Systems thinking in practice
  • Compiling an e-portfolio of evidence

Learning activities and teaching methods (given in hours of study time)

Scheduled Learning and Teaching ActivitiesGuided independent studyPlacement / study abroad
01720

Details of learning activities and teaching methods

CategoryHours of study timeDescription
Work-based learning 172Private study – reading and preparing for the module and the assessment

Formative assessment

Form of assessmentSize of the assessment (eg length / duration)ILOs assessedFeedback method
Project report outline1,000 words1-2, 6Written
Presentation3-5 slides (equivalent to 1000 words)1-3, 6Peer

Summative assessment (% of credit)

CourseworkWritten examsPractical exams
10000

Details of summative assessment

Form of assessment% of creditSize of the assessment (eg length / duration)ILOs assessedFeedback method
Project report (individual)1004,000 words1-6Written

Details of re-assessment (where required by referral or deferral)

Original form of assessmentForm of re-assessmentILOs re-assessedTimescale for re-assessment
Project report 4,000 wordsProject report 4,000 words1-6Next re-assessment period

Indicative learning resources - Basic reading

  • Jackson, M. C. (2019). Critical systems thinking and the management of complexity Chichester: Wiley.
  • Espinosa, A., & Walker, J. (2017). Complexity Approach to Sustainability, A: Theory And Application (Vol. 5). World Scientific.
  • Lassl, W. (2019). The Viability of Organizations Vols 1, 2 and 3. Springer International Publishing.
  • Reynolds, M., & Holwell, S. (Eds.). (2010). Systems approaches to managing change: a practical guide. Springer Science & Business Media.

Key words search

Work-based project, systems thinking, professional practice.

Credit value30
Module ECTS

15

Module pre-requisites

None

Module co-requisites

None

NQF level (module)

7

Available as distance learning?

No

Origin date

10/09/2022

Last revision date

12/01/2023