Through this module, students will learn how to think of things as systems - the process of understanding how entities influence one another within a greater whole. Students will be able to communicate that gaining insight and apply new methods, techniques, and vocabulary to various engineering or other projects and processes. Systems thinking helps organizations examine and scrutinize complexity and simplify it; recognize patterns, and create effective solutions to challenges. Understanding and approaching problems from a systems perspective in technical environments is an essential especially for manufacturing and engineering ecosystems.
The module also explains on how applying systems thinking will improve the performance of projects. Understand how systems thinking is used in diverse areas such as logistics & transportation, project management, computation, as well as policy making. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a project management simulation to apply the concepts learned, and engage in activities to contextualize each concept.
A Demonstrate understanding of complexity, systems, and systems thinking
B Apply systems thinking approach to address manufacturing and engineering problems
C Develop and construct system models to represent real world scenarios
D Assess and compare impact and consequences of decisions made in systems, complex problems, and manufacturing environments.
The teaching philosophy of the module follows very much the philosophy of Syntegrative Education. This has meant that the teaching delivery pattern, which follows more intensive block teaching, allows more meaningful contribution from industry partners. This philosophy is carried through also in terms of assessment, with reduction on the use of exams and increase in coursework, especially problem-based assessments that are project focused. The delivery pattern provides space in the semester for students to concentrate on completing the assessments.
The material in this module is delivered through a combination of formal lectures and tutorials. General transferable skills are developed through the presentation of written and oral reports.