# Details
**Source**: https://study.auckland.ac.nz/ords/r/uoa/catalogue/course?p6_code=ENGGEN%20731
**Parent**: https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/study/study-options/find-a-study-option/master-of-disaster-management-mdismgt.html
## Content
## Course Tabs
- [Overview](#R20619717911282906)
- [Teaching and Learning](#R614701232662077506)
- [Assessment and Learning Outcomes](#R937322478114942134)
- [Student Feedback, Support and Charter](#R614701343287077507)
## Overview
## Course Prescription
The culture, structures, roles, tools and techniques required for effective management of projects in uncertain, volatile and ambiguous environments where the project scope evolves or the timescale is the primary driver. Students will learn advanced techniques and apply them to reinforce their learning.
## Course Overview
This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Agile and Lean approaches to project management, including their differences from the waterfall approach, practical applications, case studies, and the implementation process. The coursework is designed to allow students to demonstrate their ability to apply the course content in practice.
The course will consist of a total of 12 tutorials, delivered on a weekly basis. In weeks 10 and 11, students will demonstrate their work to date on the group assignment. In week 12, the students will present their final products from the group assignment. The group assignment is a significant part of the course. As such, students are expected to make time to meet with their team members.
The weekly topics covered in the tutorials are as follows (note that the order in which topics are delivered may change):
1. Introduction to the course, your team members, and the assignments
2. Agile and Waterfall in context - identifying the best approach
3. Iterative, incremental development and the Product Owner
4. Individuals, teamwork, and continuous improvement
5. Collaboration vs. coordination - how to deal with conflict
6. Scrum and other approaches
7. Scaling Agile
8. Delivering using agile
9. Quality, problem solving, and closure
10. Demonstration/showcase#1 of group project
11. Demonstration/showcase#2 of group project
12. Final demonstration/showcase & summary development process highlights
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Tutorials 1-9 are participatory workshops in which students are expected to contribute to case studies and actively engage in applying theories to scenarios based on the module content for that week.
It is essential that everyone attends tutorials in weeks 10,11, and 12 to present their team assignment. Failure to attend and actively contribute will be reflected in the marking for the assignment.
The course delivery adopts a flexible learning approach, in which students are expected to review the online content and participate in activities during tutorials that embed the learning points. Students are expected to undertake additional work per week, reading, maintaining a journal, and completing assignments.
## Workload Expectations
This course is a standard 15-point course and the total workload is 150 hours. For this course, you can expect:
- 18 hours of tutorials,
- 52 hours of self-directed study, reading, and thinking about the subject, and
- 80 hours of assignments/projects.
The team assignment will require that you engage in at least 1 hour of face-to-face meetings per week with your team members (self-organised) as part of the assignment workload (included in the breakdown above).
## Course Prerequisites, Corequisites and Restrictions
Restriction
: must not have completed [ENGGEN 740](https://study.auckland.ac.nz/ords/r/uoa/catalogue/course?p6_code=ENGGEN%20740)
## Locations and Semesters Offered
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| Location | Semester |
| --- | --- |
| UoA Online | Semester One |
| City | Semester Two |
## Teaching and Learning
## Campus Experience or Online
Attendance is expected at scheduled activities including tutorials to complete components of the course.
Tutorials will be available as recordings.
The course activities are scheduled according to a standard weekly timetable.
## Learning Resources
Taught courses use a learning and collaboration tool called Canvas to provide students with learning materials including reading lists and lecture recordings (where available). Please remember that the recording of any class on a personal device requires the permission of the instructor.
## Additional Information on Learning Resources
There are no prescribed texts. Students may find a number of texts that cover the course material well, and should refer to several where possible. The following texts are suggested:
- Layton, M. (2012). Agile project management for dummies. Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley.
- PMI, (2021) A guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBoK Guide), 7th Edition (available as free electronic resource for student members of PMI)\
- Stellman, A., & Greene, J. (2014). Learning Agile. Sebastapol, California: O'Reilly.\
- Cline, A. (2015). Agile Development In The Real World. New York: Apress.\
- Goodpasture, J. C. (2010). Project Management the Agile Way - Making it Work in the Enterprise . Fort Lauderdale, Fl: J. Ross Publishing Inc.\
The following are referred to on the course and will prove useful:
- Adams, R. (2010). If you build it will they come? : three steps to test and validate any market opportunity. Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley.\
- Adkins, L. (2010). Coaching agile teams : a companion for ScrumMasters, agile coaches, and project managers in transition. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Addison-Wesley.\
- Carroll, J. (2012). Agile project management in easy steps. Warwickshire, UK: In Easy Steps. Crowder, J. A., & Friess, S. (2015). Agile Project Management: Managing for Success. Switzerland: Springer.
- Gladwell, M. (2005). Blink. New York: Time Warner.\
- Highsmith, J. (2004). Agile Project Management. Boston, MA: Addison-Wesley.\
- Kennedy, M. N. (2003). Product Development for the Lean Enterprise. Richmond, Virginia: Oaklea Press.
- Lencioni, P. (2005). Overcoming the five dysfunctions of a team : a field guide for leaders, managers, and facilitators. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
- Oosterwal, D. P. (2010). The lean machine : how Harley-Davidson drove top-line growth and profitability with revolutionary lean product development. New York: American Management Association.
- Pichler, R. (2010). Agile Product Management With Scrum - Creating Products that Customers Love. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Addison-Wesley.
- Poppendiek, M., & Poppendiek, T. (2003). LeanSoftware Development An Agile Toolkit. Upper Sadle River, NJ: Addison-Wesley.
- Ries, E. (2011). The lean startup : how today's entrepreneurs use continuous innovation to create radically successful business. New York: Crown Business.
- Schwaber, K. (2004). Agile project management with Scrum. Redmond, Wash.: Microsoft Press. Scott, S. (2004). Fierce conversations : achieving success at work & in life, one conversation at a time. New York: Berkley Books.
- Sutherland, J. (2014). Scrum. New York: Random House.\
- Tan, C.-M. (2012). Search inside yourself : the unexpected path to achieving success, happines, (and world peace). New York: HarperOne
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## Copyright
The content and delivery of content in this course are protected by copyright. Material belonging to others may have been used in this course and copied by and solely for the educational purposes of the University under license. You may copy the course content for the purposes of private study or research, but you may not upload onto any third-party site, make a further copy or sell, alter or further reproduce or distribute any part of the course content to another person.
## Health and Safety
There are no special risks associated with this course. All activities are conducted in lecture theatres or immediately adjacent to them and so no special precautions are required. All attendees should remain vigilant for hazards and report anything of concern to the lecturer immediately.Students are encouraged to discuss any workload-related issues with the facilitator at the earliest possible time and to prepare their assignments from the start of the course, rather than waiting until the deadlines.Students must ensure they are familiar with their Health and Safety responsibilities, as described in the university's Health and Safety policy
## Learning Continuity
In the event of an unexpected disruption, we undertake to maintain the continuity and standard of teaching and learning in all your courses throughout the year. If there are unexpected disruptions the University has contingency plans to ensure that access to your course continues and course assessment continues to meet the principles of the University’s assessment policy. Some adjustments may need to be made in emergencies. You will be kept fully informed by your course co-ordinator/director, and if disruption occurs you should refer to the university website for information about how to proceed.
## Other Information
Restricted to postgraduate students only.
## Academic Integrity
The University of Auckland will not tolerate cheating, or assisting others to cheat, and views cheating in coursework as a serious academic offence. The work that a student submits for grading must be the student's own work, reflecting their learning. Where work from other sources is used, it must be properly acknowledged and referenced. This requirement also applies to sources on the internet. A student's assessed work may be reviewed for potential plagiarism or other forms of academic misconduct, using computerised detection mechanisms.
Similarly, research students must meet the University’s expectations of good research practice. This requires:
- Honesty - in all aspects of research work
- Accountability - in the conduct of research
- Professional courtesy and fairness – in working with others
- Good stewardship – on behalf of others
- Transparency – of research process and presentation of results
- Clarity - communication to be understandable, explainable and accessible
For more information on the University’s expectations of academic integrity, please see the [Academic Conduct](https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/about-us/about-the-university/policy-hub/education-student-experience/academic-conduct.html) section of the University policy hub.
## Disclaimer
Elements of this outline may be subject to change. The latest information about taught courses is made available to enrolled students in Canvas.
Students may be asked to submit assessments digitally. The University reserves the right to conduct scheduled tests and examinations online or through the use of computers or other electronic devices. Where tests or examinations are conducted online remote invigilation arrangements may be used. In exceptional circumstances changes to elements of this course may be necessary at short notice. Students enrolled in this course will be informed of any such changes and the reasons for them, as soon as possible, through Canvas.
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## Assessment and Learning Outcomes
## Course Learning Outcomes
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| CLO # | Outcome | Programme Capability Link |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Explain the origins and fundamental principles, disciplines, concepts, tools, techniques, and approaches to project management in volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous environments. | MEPM - Master of Engineering Project Management - Programme Capabilities Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science, computing and engineering fundamentals, and an engineering specialisation, considering multiple perspectives and knowledge systems to develop solutions to complex engineering problems (WA1) Use knowledge of mathematics, natural sciences and engineering principles, and research literature to identify, formulate, analyse and solve complex engineering problems and reach substantiated conclusions (WA2) |
| 2 | Apply the fundamental principles, disciplines, concepts, tools, techniques and approaches of project management in volatile, uncertain, complex, or ambiguous environments to a collaborative project, and cite evidence of where this has been done. | MEPM - Master of Engineering Project Management - Programme Capabilities Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science, computing and engineering fundamentals, and an engineering specialisation, considering multiple perspectives and knowledge systems to develop solutions to complex engineering problems (WA1) Create, select, apply, and recognize limitations of appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering and IT tools, including, measurements, modelling and prediction, to solve complex engineering problems (WA5) Use knowledge of mathematics, natural sciences and engineering principles, and research literature to identify, formulate, analyse and solve complex engineering problems and reach substantiated conclusions (WA2) Conduct investigations of complex engineering problems using research methods, research-based knowledge, design of experiments, analysis and interpretation of data, and synthesis of information to provide valid conclusions (WA4) Design creative solutions for complex engineering problems and design systems, components or processes to meet identified needs with appropriate consideration for public health and safety, whole-life cost, net zero carbon, as well as resource, cultural, societal, and environmental considerations as required (WA3) Communicate effectively, respectfully and inclusively on complex engineering activities with the engineering community and with society at large, such as being able to comprehend and write effective reports and design documentation, make effective presentations, taking into account cultural, language, and learning differences using a range of technologies and formats (WA10) Collaborate effectively as an individual, and as a member or leader in diverse and inclusive multi-disciplinary teams in face-to-face, remote and distributed settings, influencing work and in the service of others (WA9) |
| 3 | Critically evaluate the fundamental principles, disciplines, concepts, tools, techniques, and approaches of project management in volatile, uncertain, complex, or ambiguous environments and their relevance/application to collaborative projects and organisations. | MEPM - Master of Engineering Project Management - Programme Capabilities Create, select, apply, and recognize limitations of appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering and IT tools, including, measurements, modelling and prediction, to solve complex engineering problems (WA5) Communicate effectively, respectfully and inclusively on complex engineering activities with the engineering community and with society at large, such as being able to comprehend and write effective reports and design documentation, make effective presentations, taking into account cultural, language, and learning differences using a range of technologies and formats (WA10) |
| 4 | Critically evaluate their own and others' ability to apply Lean and Agile project management principles, disciplines, concepts, tools and techniques to a project or organisation in a volatile, uncertain, complex, or ambiguous environment with a team of diverse individuals, and develop improvement plans. | MEPM - Master of Engineering Project Management - Programme Capabilities Create, select, apply, and recognize limitations of appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering and IT tools, including, measurements, modelling and prediction, to solve complex engineering problems (WA5) Use knowledge of mathematics, natural sciences and engineering principles, and research literature to identify, formulate, analyse and solve complex engineering problems and reach substantiated conclusions (WA2) Design creative solutions for complex engineering problems and design systems, components or processes to meet identified needs with appropriate consideration for public health and safety, whole-life cost, net zero carbon, as well as resource, cultural, societal, and environmental considerations as required (WA3) Communicate effectively, respectfully and inclusively on complex engineering activities with the engineering community and with society at large, such as being able to comprehend and write effective reports and design documentation, make effective presentations, taking into account cultural, language, and learning differences using a range of technologies and formats (WA10) |
| 5 | Apply tools and techniques to communicate and present project documentation, information, deliverables and reports to stakeholders. | MEPM - Master of Engineering Project Management - Programme Capabilities Communicate effectively, respectfully and inclusively on complex engineering activities with the engineering community and with society at large, such as being able to comprehend and write effective reports and design documentation, make effective presentations, taking into account cultural, language, and learning differences using a range of technologies and formats (WA10) Collaborate effectively as an individual, and as a member or leader in diverse and inclusive multi-disciplinary teams in face-to-face, remote and distributed settings, influencing work and in the service of others (WA9) |
## Assessments
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| Assessment Type | Assessment Percentage | Assessment Classification |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Assignments (individual) | 35 | Individual Coursework |
| Reflection | 35 | Individual Coursework |
| Assignments (Group) | 30 | Group Coursework |
## Additional Information on Assessment
A passing mark is 50% or higher, according to University policy.
It is possible to submit late for the assignments and projects. Late submissions will be dealt with under the course policy published on Canvas.
## Assessment to CLO Mapping
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| Assessment Type | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Assignments (individual) | | | | | |
| Reflection | | | | | |
| Assignments (Group) | | | | | |
## Student Feedback, Support and Charter
## Student Feedback
Feedback on taught courses is gathered from students at the end of each semester through a tool called SET or Qualtrics. The lecturers and course co-ordinators will consider all feedback and respond with summaries and actions. Your feedback helps teachers to improve the course and its delivery for future students. In addition, class Representatives in each class can take feedback to the department and faculty staff-student consultative committees.
## Additional Information on Student Feedback
This course received 69% student feedback and the appraisal was 4.81/5 (97%) in 2025. Based on the qualitative feedback for this course, the assignment details have been further clarified. We have also introduced an AI search engine to allow students to identify the materials they need more easily and in a way that suits their learning style.
## Class representatives
Class representatives are students tasked with representing student issues to departments, faculties, and the wider university. If you have a complaint about this course, please contact your class rep who will know how to raise it in the right channels. See your departmental noticeboard for contact details for your class reps.
## Tuākana
Tuākana is a multi-faceted programme for Māori and Pacific students providing topic specific tutorials, one-on-one sessions, test and exam preparation and more. Explore your options at [Tuakana Learning Communities](https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/students/student-support/academic-support/tuakana-learning-communities.html).
## Inclusive Learning
All students are asked to discuss any impairment related requirements privately, face to face and/or in written form with the course coordinator, lecturer or tutor. Student Disability Services also provides support for students with a wide range of impairments, both visible and invisible, to succeed and excel at the University. For more information and contact details, please visit the [Student Disability Services’ website](http://disability.auckland.ac.nz/).
## Wellbeing
We all go through tough times during the semester, or see our friends struggling. There is lots of help out there - please see the [Support Services](https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/students/student-support/personal-support.html) page for information on support services in the University and the wider community.
## Special Circumstances
If your ability to complete assessed work is affected by illness or other personal circumstances outside of your control, contact a member of teaching staff as soon as possible before the assessment is due. If your personal circumstances significantly affect your performance, or preparation, for an exam or eligible written test, refer to the University’s [aegrotat or compassionate consideration page](https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/students/academic-information/exams-and-final-results/during-exams/aegrotat-and-compassionate-consideration.html). This should be done as soon as possible and no later than seven days after the affected test or exam date.
## Student Charter and Responsibilities
The Student Charter assumes and acknowledges that students are active participants in the learning process and that they have responsibilities to the institution and the international community of scholars. The University expects that students will act at all times in a way that demonstrates respect for the rights of other students and staff so that the learning environment is both safe and productive. For further information visit [Student Charter](https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/students/forms-policies-and-guidelines/student-policies-and-guidelines/student-charter.html).
## Student Academic Complaints and Disputes
Students with concerns about teaching including how a course is delivered, the resources provided, or supervision arrangements, have the right to express their concerns and seek resolution. The university encourages informal resolution where possible, as this is quicker and less stressful. For information on the informal and formal complaints processes, please refer to the Student Academic Complaints Statute in the [Student Policies and Guidelines](https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/students/forms-policies-and-guidelines/student-policies-and-guidelines.html) section of the Policy Hub.
Course - V7
ENGGEN 731 - Agile and Lean Project Management - V4.1 - Effective From: Semester One 2026 (Published: 2026-01-27)