Final Projects and Other Course Activities
Final Projects
The Final Project
The final project is typically implemented gradually throughout the course as topics are covered. Weekly deliverables accumulate and form the basis for the final project. Some faculty members require students to choose their own project early on while others assign a single project for all students to complete.
Final Project Alternative
An alternative means for assignments throughout the course using the concept of a “running problem case”. This involves the use of a single problem scenario that provides an opportunity for students to create multiple deliverables throughout the course that apply to this scenario as they learn various topics within the subject of Project Management
Capstone Assignment
Some universities refer to the Final Project as a “capstone” assignment (Chapter 4, Volume 2). In this document, the word “capstone” is reserved for a course at the end of a program—see course PM-10.
Research Oriented Term Paper
To distinguish this type of project from the previous examples and to clarify the differences, we refer to this version of the final project as a “term paper.” In the curriculum resources, we document one specimen research term paper assignment on a project management topic, including the required learning outcomes, sample project idea, research methods details and possible grading rubrics, alongside general guidance regarding research projects and dissertations.
Other Course Activities
Sample Analysis Problems
Risk analysis and Earned Value analysis is a good way to demonstrate the complexities of a project. Instructors have the opportunity to introduce sample analysis problems as shown here. Notice the emphasis on communication to the stakeholder.
Perform a Net Present Value Analysis for a Project
In this activity, students are introduced to projects and strategy as well as financial techniques to assess project cost. Learning outcome: Student is able to apply NPV analysis to project decisions.
Project Management and the Ethics of Deception - Part A
A Fictional Scenario Based on Volkswagen’s Emissions Scandal.
Project Management and the Ethics of Deception - Part B
Project Management and the Ethics of Deception: A Fictional Scenario Based on Volkswagen’s Emissions Scandal
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