Core Course
BAN632 – Agile Project Management
Course Unit Code: BAN632
Type Of Unit: Elective
Level of Course Unit: Graduate
Year of Study: 1
Semester: Semester 3
Number of ECTS Credits: 10
Class Contact Hours: 12
Mode of Delivery
Distance Learning
Prerequisites
None
Course Objectives
The aim of this course is to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of Agile project management, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to excel in modern project delivery. Throughout this transformative program, the course aims to explore the foundations and intricacies of Agile methodologies, with a specific focus on popular frameworks like Scrum, Kanban, XP, and Lean. From the outset, students will distinguish Agile from traditional Waterfall methods, delving into its core values and principles. By grasping the significance of the VUCA method, they will discover its practical applications and relevance in today’s dynamic business landscape. In the exploration of Scrum, the course aims to delve into its pillars and values, while also examining the essential roles that constitute an effective Scrum team. By understanding the traits that make these roles successful, students will be equipped to nurture collaborative and productive teams in their future projects. This course will equip students with essential skills in managing the Product Backlog and crafting user stories, ensuring efficient backlog refinement and accurate effort estimation. They will learn to use estimation techniques like T-shirt and Story points, enabling precise and realistic planning.
Learning Outcomes
- Foundational factual understanding of agile project management. Values and Principles.
- Comprehensive understanding of iterative project management, team collaboration, and adaptive problem-solving methodologies
- Understanding the fundamentals of Scrum methodology and other Agile frameworks.
- Understanding Scrum roles’ traits and Scrum tools.
- Understanding the difficulties and challenges of coaching within an agile environment.
- Understanding a value-driven environment.
Course Content
1st week: Introduction to Agile
2nd week: Understanding VUCA
3rd week: Exploring Scrum Framework
4th week: Other Agile Frameworks: Kanban, XP, Lean
5th week: Unveiling Scrum Pillars and Values
6th week: Traits of effective Scrum Roles
7th week: Product Backlog and User Stories
8th week: Backlog Refinement and Effort Estimation
9th week: Scrum Events and Tools
10th week: Value-Driven Delivery Strategies
11th week: Coaching in Agile
12th week: Overcoming Agile Team Challenges
Course Features
Weekly interactive activities (20%):
On a weekly basis, students will have the possibility to engage in self-assessment activities (online quizzes via Google Forms) to judge their own level of understanding of the concepts covered so far.
The weekly interactive self-assessment activities will be sent to the students via an online link. Feedback will be promptly given upon the completion of the form, therefore they are covering the concept of interactive activities, since they will use online learning tools and we will discuss the results together at the end.
Biweekly assignments (30%)
There will be 5 assignments every 2 weeks, focusing on reading and analyzing a scientific paper or business articles and applying the acquired knowledge on real-world scenarios. Assignments will be discussed in class at the next lecture following the submission deadline.
Final exam (50%):
Students will be provided with an online form of 20 questions (probably on MS Forms or Google Forms) so they can participate in the online multiple-choice exam.