81799 - Project Management and Soft Skills M

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student will be aware of the main concepts and tools of project management. Morever, they will be able to make an efficient end effective presentation. Finally, they will learn the role played by soft skills in professional activities.

Course contents

The syllabus is reported below. More information on the course approach can be found on www.robertoverdone.org.

I.Introduction (approx 3 hours).

II. A Pragmatic Approach to Project Management (approx 9 hours).

- Projects, Roles, WBS

- Gantt and PERT Diagrams

- Cost Assessment

- Submitting a Project Proposal

III. Soft Skills and Aptitudes (approx 12 hours).

- Introduction to Cognitive Processes

- Soft Skills at Time of Industry 4.0

- Success and Talent

- Aptitudes

- Team Work

- Leadership

- Learning Styles

IV. Communication Skills (approx 9 hours).

- Fundamentals of Human Communication

- Persuasion

- Inter-Personal Communication

- Presentation Skills

Additionally, the course will include a Madness session where all students will introduce themselves in one minute, a CV contest, and, possibly, one or two seminars from professionals.

Readings/Bibliography

Slidesets. Several books will be suggested for additional reading during the classes.

Teaching methods

Most lectures are based on the alternation of a presentation by the instructor and group work.

Morevoer, students will be assigned tasks to be performed every week by precise deadlines.

Assessment methods

The student will undergo a written questionnaire plus an oral exam.

The written questionnaire will include close-answer questions on the theoretical aspects related to soft skills. Students will be incentivised to pass it before end of the course. Otherwise, they will be given the chance to pass it on the day of the oral exam.

Prior to the date of the exam the student will deliver via email to the instructor by a specific deadline (normally two weeks before):

1) a one page report on a topic agreed with the instructor, following the template provided by the instructor (see www.robertoverdone.org)

2) a three page research project proposal, following the template provided by the instructor (see www.robertoverdone.org)

3) His/Her CV with a cover letter, simulating the application for a job position as project manager.

During the oral exam, the student will present in five minutes the slideset prepared.

Teaching tools

Slidesets.

Online forms and tests.

Office hours

See the website of Roberto Verdone