A Case Study in Developing a Graduate Studies Course Focusing on Soft Skills in Teamwork

This paper describes the first phase of developing a new graduate studies course that focusses on the soft skills associated with the effective functioning of construction project teams. An examination of the literature regarding the need for the course is compared to the expectations of industry and a gap between employer needs and graduate capabilities is identified. The paper describes the processes involved in developing a course to fill the gap including securing funding, finding appropriate expertise, establishing the course aim and learning outcomes, designing the structure, determining the pedagogical approach, assessment strategy, and preparation for delivery. The paper concludes with an explanation of the next steps in the second phase.