Apply Logic and Reasoning

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Cognitive skills are developed across the 4 taught modules. Applying logic and reasoning is developed and enhanced throughout the programme. Each module has a blend of underpinning theoretical knowledge supported by discussions as to the application in practice. Students will be introduced to contemporary and historical thinking in operations and supply chain management and will be able to draw on this in relation to live case studies, short operations and supply chain management opportunities and challenges, culminating in the application of logic and reasoning to a complex and holistic 'issue' for the successful completion of the Contemporary and Emerging Issues module.

Methods of Assessment

This skill is assessed in all modules and students are expected to have honed and refined this skill as the certificate progresses Scenario problem solving, case study analysis, analysis and interpretation of data, as well as the potential application of theory to practice are also assessed.

Critically evaluate information

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The ability to evaluate and interpret information critically is initially developed through the independent engagement with module resources in advance of each module block of delivery. This is supported by a range of case studies, videos, business simulation exercises and short problem solving activities to produce initial critical evaluations which are then tested and extended through the interactive teaching delivery sessions.

Methods of Assessment

The ability to evaluate and interpret information is assessed in each module. There are several pieces of assessment, notably in the Managerial Decision Making module, where the evaluation will focus heavily on statistical data and information and students will be expected to be able to interrogate and draw inferences and recommendations. In other cases, students will be expected to engage in high-level critical dialogue with existing theoretical thinking in the relevant field. And, there are other opportunities to evaluate the relationship between theory and practice. A variety of assessment methods are used including: individual academic essays, self-selected studies, case study critique and problem solving. Both formative (in the block teaching sessions, and one-to-one meetings) and summative assessment are incorporated into the programme. Students will have opportunities at the end of each module assessment to seek additional feedback from the academic team.

Pursue independent enquiry

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

In addition to the individual guided preparatory work referenced above, the skills associated with independent enquiry will be further developed through the interconnection between theory and practice. Each participant will be expected to apply broad theoretical frameworks to the challenges associated with specific aspects of contemporary operations and supply chain management. The ability to apply theory laterally will be grounded in independent engagement with course resources, self-directed desktop and/or practice-based research, and developed through class discussion.

Methods of Assessment

This skill is assessed in a range of modules and, in particular, the self-selected study in the Contemporary and Emerging Issues module and in the completion of the application of theory to practice in one of the assignments for Operations Management.

Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of operations and supply chain management

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The programme draws on contemporary and historical thinking in operations and supply chain management A deep understanding of the conceptual underpinnings is initially facilitated through directed reading of academic journals, high quality practitioner opinion pieces. Short vignettes from contemporary practice as well as case discussion from business leaders also facilitates the learning experience in this programmes. Collectively, these then form the basis for more detailed discussion and problem solving, analysis and critique in the online learning sessions.

Methods of Assessment

This is formally assessed in all of the modules, through short academic type essays, report writing, and case study analysis. Both formative and summative assessment is used to assess all elements of knowledge and understanding and additional feedback sessions will be made available immediately after provisional marks have been awarded.

Demonstrate, explain and critique the role and importance of efficiency, quality and risk and resilience in relation to business performance and success.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ acquisition of core knowledge is achieved primarily through the lecture, workshop and discussion sessions. Case study discussion and analysis is also used.

Methods of Assessment

In the Managerial Decision Making module, students will be assessed on the analysis of efficiency, quality and risks in various class based and assessed exercises. These overarching concepts are also embedded and assessed in the other modules.

Understand and evaluate the importance of supplier management and logistics systems and their impact on business decisions.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ acquisition of core knowledge is achieved primarily through the lecture, workshop and discussion sessions. In-class case study analysis and problem solving are also used in the teaching and learning environment. Business simulation type exercises are also used to understand and explore the impact of logistics system designs

Methods of Assessment

The assessed case study exercises and analysis and interpretation in the Managerial Decision Making and Strategic Supply Chain Management modules will assess the students’ understandings of supplier management and logistics systems

Understand managerial decision making and data analysis methods, as applied to operations and supply chain management, by drawing on a range of contemporary theory

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students acquisition of core knowledge is developed extensively in one core module (managerial decision making) and, to a lesser extent in other modules. Case studies, worked examples and short problem solving exercises are used to illustrate operational research and statistical analysis methods and tools.

Methods of Assessment

Individual reports requiring analysis and interpretation of data are used to assess the learning experience. Formative feedback in relation to students’ ability to apply decision making tools using Excel, is also provided at various stages during the teaching and learning sessions.

Appreciate the importance of internationalisation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This is a learning outcome that is core to all degree programmes in Queen’s Management School and is embedded in this certificate programme. International case studies and drawing on best practice, as well as challenges and business ‘mistakes’ are embedded into the teaching and learning sessions in all of the modules.

Methods of Assessment

The focus on internationalisation is embedded in each of the assessments in each of the 4 Certificate modules.

Engage with issues around ethics, responsibility and sustainability

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This is a learning outcome that is core to all degree programmes in Queen’s Management School and is embedded in this degree programme. The use of case studies and critique of problem solving activities and decisions in organisations are used in early modules to initiate discussions about social responsibility and sustainability. These are then discussed in additional detail in the Contemporary and Emerging Issues module.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment to gauge this skill is both formative and summative. Case study analysis, application of theory to practice, and the self-selected study in the Contemporary and Emerging Issues module are also used to assess these elements.

Critically evaluate core operations and supply chain management issues and provide balanced solutions.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Practical tools are discussed and applied to various different scenarios in each of the modules. Case studies and classroom based discussions provide opportunities for the students to learn how to apply the tools to help address and (re)solve operations and supply chain management ‘problems’.

Methods of Assessment

There is a practical and applied element in at least one assessment of each of the 4 modules. This includes case study analysis, analysis and interpretation of data with recommendations for managers, problem solving exercises. Formative assessment is provided in the teaching and learning sessions to give students confidence and feedback before attempting the summative assessments.

Developing evidence-based decision-making skills

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This subject specific skill runs throughout the entire certificate programme and most notably in the Managerial Decision Making module. Teaching and learning are facilitated through using Excel to analyse data and make decisions. In-class discussions and self-reflection are also important features of the learning environment.

Methods of Assessment

These skills will be assessed both formatively and summatively. Formative assessment both within and beyond the teaching and learning sessions will be provided. Short reports, analysing and interpreting data and making recommendations/decisions to managers will assess student learning.

The ability to source, analyse, critique and then apply a range of relevant, contemporary, academic, practitioner and policy literatures relating to operations and supply chain management, supplier management and logistics systems.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Directed reading of academic journal articles and high quality practitioner opinion pieces are made available to the students in advance of each taught session. These will then be drawn upon, discussed and applied in a range of settings throughout the modules in the certificate programme.

Methods of Assessment

At least one assessment element in each module requires the students to be able to locate, critique and then integrate a range of literature into their work

Communicate ideas in both written and presentational forms

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The development and enhancement of Transferable skills are a common feature throughout all of the taught modules. The use of business simulation tool and exercises, data analytics, research papers, short case vignettes, real-time case studies, problem solving exercises are all used, to various extents, throughout the certificate programme.

Methods of Assessment

Oral communication skills are formatively assessed in a range of workshop settings and in class discussions. Different types of written communication skills (traditional academic type essay, management report, problem solving exercises, and data interpretation) are assessed throughout the certificate programme. There are numerous opportunities for formative assessment in all these assessment types.

Use ICT software effectively

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The use and integration of ICT is critical to the success of this programme. All other taught modules will incorporate a blended approach to learning and make heavy use of ICT; inter alia videos, blogs, guest speakers, and narrated PowerPoints will be used. As the delivery is designed, largely, in workshop blocks, students will have access to a range of materials, in advance of each module delivery. Students will have opportunities to use a range of ICT packages, including data interrogation and analysis, and the full range of Office 365.

Methods of Assessment

All assessments, to a greater or lesser extent draw on a wide range of ICT skills and software. ICT for use in presentations, data analysis, report writing etc are all assessed throughout the range of modules.

Work both independently and in groups

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

These skills are developed and enhanced in all of the taught modules. There are opportunities in all modules for group work to share ideas, problem solve, critique case studies, provide recommendations on live cases, interrogate data etc. These are then reported back to the main cohort for further discussion. Independent learning is expected in advance of each taught module and is a central feature of the programme.

Methods of Assessment

All summative assessment is conducted on an individual basis. There are assessment opportunities that are assessed throughout some of the block delivery and others that are submitted after the module delivery.

Manage their own time and workloads effectively

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Time management and managing the balance and competing priorities in studying for this certificate will challenge the students. All of the content in the modules that are delivered in block are designed in thematic ‘chunks’ interlinked with short problem solving exercises, in-class discussions, workshop delivery etc.

Methods of Assessment

Some assessments are undertaken and completed during the block delivery. Students will therefore have to manage their time effectively but will also have the benefit of receiving formative assessment in advance of the next assessment submission.

Engage with employers and practitioners

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Engagement in the form of guest lectures, live case examples, discussion of the role and impact of contemporary issues are integral features of this certificate programme. Several vignettes from business leaders will be used as the basis for discussion in some modules and also to explore the relationship between theory and practice. As all students will have some practical business experience, there are also opportunities provided to allow for learning and sharing of best practice.

Methods of Assessment

Analysis of real-life case studies is assessed both formatively and summatively. Providing recommendations to managers about various business decision alternatives, by analysing and interpreting complex data is also formatively assessed.