System Engineering for Complex Problem Solving

Course aim

Systems Engineering for Complex Problem Solving is an introductory course in systems thinking and practice directed at Defence engineering personnel at Masters level. When tackling work-related problems it is important to view the larger context in which one finds the problem and to endeavour to find a solution that works within this wider context. That is the essence of applying systems thinking. This course aims to provide more than just a theoretical background, it seeks to instil functional knowledge on what systems methodologies are effective for which class of complex problem and how to apply them.

Course content

The course opens with basic systems theory and then introduces the paradigm of systems thinking as an appropriate philosophical basis on which to build effective methodologies to tackle complex problems.
From this background the leading systems methodologies are taught:

• Classical, project-centric systems engineering (SE)
• Defence project lifecycles 
• SE methods, tool and techniques
• SE disciplines (e.g. reliability, maintainability usability) 
• SE management as practised in Defence
• SE analysis to support decision making
• Socio-technical systems and soft system methodologies
• Practical case studies

Meta-methodologies and architectural concepts that can be employed to tackle particularly complex and challenging problems.

Textbook(s)

Blanchard, B.S. and Fabrycky, W.J. 2011, Systems Engineering and Analysis, 5, Prentice-Hall International Inc

Prerequisite(s)

Nil

Corequisite(s)

Nil

Teaching method

Component	Duration
INTERNAL, MAWSON LAKES (INTENSIVE)
Lecture	Block mode x 5 days
Directed Study	Block mode x 5 days

Note: These components may or may not be scheduled in every study period. Please refer to the timetable for further details.

Assessment

Class discussions, Group assignment, Individual Assignment

Fees

EFTSL*: 0.125
Commonwealth Supported program (Band 2)
To determine the fee for this course as part of a Commonwealth Supported program, go to:
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Fee-paying program for domestic and international students
International students and students undertaking this course as part of a postgraduate fee paying program must refer to the relevant program home page to determine the cost for undertaking this course.

Non-award enrolment
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* Equivalent Full Time Study Load. Please note: all EFTSL values are published and calculated at ten decimal places. Values are displayed to three decimal places for ease of interpretation.