CEM102-Business of Construction

Module Provider: School of Construction Management and Engineering, School of Built Environment
Number of credits: 40 [20 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: CEM103 Project Management: Principles and Practice CEM104 Construction Cost Management: Principles and Practice CEM105 Emerging Economies Integrating Studies CEM107 Sustainable Design and Management Principles and Practice CEM110 Collaboration, Practice and Innovation CEM12A Business of Construction A CEM12B Business of Construction B
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Shabnam Kabiri
Email: s.kabiri@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This is the key integrating module for the MSc Construction Management programme. It is based on the idea of integrating learning from core programme modules into a personal, coherent view of the discipline of construction management. We will investigate the diverse perspectives that different modules bring to the study of construction management through two continuous pieces of work running in parallel throughout the programme. First, through the use of reflective writing based on observations of practice and lessons from core modules connected to a recognised professional skills framework. Second, the application of learning from core modules to a case study building project.

Please note that there are three matching module description forms: CEM102, CEM12A and CEM12B. This is because the A and B versions are the flexible-modular equivalent of the full-time version. The flexible-modular equivalent runs over two years. The only difference between full- time and flexible-modular in relation to assessment is that the assignments for the 40-credit version are split across two years for flexible-modular students in two 20-credit versions. The differences in contact hours for these modules relate to the class contact hours.

Aims:
The aim is to explore the changing nature of knowledge and practice in the management of construction projects and the environments in which they are undertaken. These changes bring new opportunities and new challenges for construction managers. We seek to apply the lessons from the core modules to a case study project and also to empower students to have ownership of their own professional development through reflective writing. This involves reflections on translating theory into practice and provides an opportunity for students to understand their own learning.

Assessable learning outcomes:
Students will demonstrate the ability to evaluate different approaches to the management of construction projects and to synthesise knowledge, tools and techniques from the core modules of the programme into a coherent framework for managing construction projects. Through the use of reflective writing, students will critique current construction management practice and explore the use of reflection in professional development. Students will apply the principles of clear and concise report writing and organisation of written material.

Additional outcomes:
The assignments will give students the opportunity to develop skills in time management and problem solving and enhance the student's ability to work and learn independently. The development of these skills is supported through seminars related to the reflective portfolio and to the case study. Assignments and guided reading will enable students to connect inputs from the core modules and form an effective overview of the discipline of construction management.

Outline content:
The content involves integrating activities designed to draw together the core modules in a way that is both applied and reflective. This involves continuous study and discussion in seminars encompassing the content of the Construction Management programme and its application. Students are required to use the tools and techniques acquired through the programme to articulate coherent arguments and produce an in-depth account of reflective learning. Over the duration of the programme, students compile a personal portfolio consisting of a series of reflective accounts of specific incidents that provide opportunities for translating theory into practice.

Global context:
Construction management is related very closely to the place in which construction work is carried out. By making clear the specific practices and their contexts, students will understand that construction projects are context-dependent, with practice varying significantly around the world. There is an expectation in the assessed work that students make frequent comparisons of construction management practice in different parts of the world.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures, workshops, seminars, case studies, reflective learning, guided reading, site visits.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
One integrating case study consisting of questions relating to core modules and one reflective portfolio, both carried out over the duration of the programme with submission after the end of the timetabled modules.

Formative assessment methods:
There will be a range of formative assessment methods embedded within the module delivery. Principally, the formative assessment feedback will take place during tutorial interaction as the students' integrated projects evolve and progress. A central ethos of the module is iterative, intense student progression and formative assessments.

Penalties for late submission:

The below information applies to?all full time and flexible modular?students on taught PGT programmes in SBE. 

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late: 

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days; 


• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded. 

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission?which applies to all full time and flexible modular PGT students in SBE?can be found at:?https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf 

You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work. 

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:
Students are required to contact the School to confirm reassessment arrangements.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books:  None

2) Specialist equipment or materials:  None

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:  £50

4) Printing and binding:  None

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:  None

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:  None

Last updated: 27 July 2023