NC.BUS-10A - Introduction to Project Mgmt. - Ruben Aguayo

Introduction

Hello, and welcome to our course! My name is Ruben Aguayo, and I’m the instructor for this course. I bring both academic and industry experience, and I’m excited to guide you through the fundamentals of project management—a skillset that will help you define project goals, manage resources effectively, and bring projects to successful completion.

The first thing I want you to know about this course is that it is designed for your success—whether you’re new to project management or refining your skills. This class will be interactive, practical, and engaging. We’ll cover essential project management concepts, from stakeholder engagement to budgeting and project execution, all while fostering a supportive learning environment.

I look forward to working with you and seeing the projects you create! If you ever have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help. Let’s make this a great semester!

Course Description

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the core principles of project management and how they apply in a business setting. Over the duration of the course, you will learn how to define project goals and objectives, develop a comprehensive project plan, and effectively manage resources, timelines, and stakeholders to ensure project success.

Key topics covered in this course include:

• Traditional vs. Agile Project Management methodologies
• Organizational structures and their impact on projects
• Stakeholder analysis and communication strategies
• Project scope, planning, and budgeting
• Procurement and resource management
• Project execution, monitoring, and closure

Throughout the course, you will engage in discussion forums, quizzes, and practical assignments designed to reinforce key concepts. A Capstone Project will allow you to apply what you have learned by developing a project management timeline, demonstrating your ability to oversee a project from initiation to completion.

I look forward to guiding you through this journey into the world of project management and helping you build the skills needed for success in both academic and professional settings!

What to Expect in this Course

Here’s what to expect:

Weekly Workload

Each week includes:

• Discussion board post & responses
• Module assignment or short written response
• Quizzes

In shorter terms, multiple modules may be due per week—check Canvas Calendar to stay on track.

Technology Requirements

• Computer/tablet with internet
• Webcam & microphone (for Zoom)
• Chrome/Firefox & Canvas access
• YouTube access (for lectures)

Projects & Exams

• Capstone Project: Develop a project management timeline applying key concepts learned.
• Extra Credit: Earn points for additional discussion responses.

Types of Assessments

Throughout this course, you will engage with a variety of assessments designed to reinforce key project management concepts and ensure you develop practical skills applicable to real-world scenarios. The assessments you can expect include:

• Quizzes (30%) – Each module includes a short, 5-question quiz to check your understanding of the material. These quizzes help you stay on track and reinforce key concepts. Be sure to follow the Canvas Calendar to keep up with deadlines.

• Online Discussion Boards (40%) – Discussions allow you to interact with peers and apply your learning to real-world scenarios. Each discussion requires an initial post and at least two follow-up responses. Extra credit is available for additional engagement beyond the required posts.

• Module Assignments/Written Responses – These short written assignments or exercises help you analyze course concepts in more depth and apply them to project management scenarios.

• Capstone Project (30%) – A comprehensive final project where you will create a project management timeline. This hands-on assignment will require you to apply the project life cycle, stakeholder management, budgeting, and scheduling skills to a real or hypothetical project.

Each assessment type is designed to provide a well-rounded understanding of project management principles while allowing flexibility for different learning styles. Stay proactive, engage with your classmates, and reach out with any questions to ensure your success in the course!

Textbook Information

Great news! This course utilizes a Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) resource, meaning you do not need to purchase a textbook. All required readings and materials are available for free.

You can access the textbook in two ways:
? Canvas: A downloadable PDF version is available in the first module, labeled "Introduction to Your Online Course."
? Module Readings: Each assigned chapter is embedded within the corresponding weekly module for easy access.

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 02/05/2025 Sub#: 1898