Module Code - Title:
WT4605
-
PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACTING
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
WT4804
WT4704
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
This module is the first of two modules in the Construction Management + Engineering programme designed to introduce core concepts, tools, techniques and relevant to the Management of Procurement and Contracting in construction. The specific objectives are to provide learners with the knowledge of:
• The different types and forms of contract used in construction.
• To develop a strong understanding of the standard forms of construction contracts in use in the industry, both domestically and internationally.
• Standard contract forms and how they are used in the various stages of a project.
• The procurement process and the perspectives of different parties.
• Contract administration.
Syllabus:
The aim of this module is to provide an understanding of the different forms of contract and their commercial implications and provide students with an overview of the procurement and contracting processes as part of the overall project management process in the construction sector. Indicative content for this module includes the following:
• Procurement Methods:
o Traditional,
o Design & Build,
o Design Build Finance Operate (PPP),
• Management Contracting
• Construction Management.
• Standard Forms of Construction Contract including those used in both public
and private sectors:
o JCT
o FIDIC
o NEC
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to... • Outline the various forms of contract currently employed in the construction
industry.
• Discuss the procurement processes in modern construction practice.
• Discuss the various procurement methods one can use when contracting.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to... • Discuss the changing nature of procurement in the modern construction
industry.
• Discover and interpret changes in procurement and contracting in the construction industry.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
• N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
This module WT605, aims to develop a skillset in procurement and contracting necessary for our graduates to take their place working in and influencing the construction sector, capable of managing construction projects with a strong emphasis on ethics, responsibility and compliance to contractual agreements.
Through the learning environment - using a focused teaching approach, resources and supports, we aim to develop expert learners and global citizens who are:
Curious - through having a questioning mindset and a solution focused perspective.
Courageous - understanding the importance of standing up for what is right and ethical.
Responsible - for the correct usage of resources and their own impact on the world.
Agile - utilising proactivity to adapt to and drive change in their community and career supported by a continuous learning approach.
Articulate - in that they can express themselves with a confidence grounded in sound learning.
To develop these attributes, this module will be taught using a series of in-person lectures, tutorials and a selection of self-directed and collaborative learning activities so it is student-centred and in line with UL's Integrated Curriculum Development Framework (ICDF). Module learning materials are developed from a research-led perspective regarding content and the principles of Universal Design for Learning are used to ensure accessibility for all students. The module Brightspace site is designed and organised in a user-friendly format to maximise functionality.
To allow for the incorporation of new developments and research findings in the subject material, the flexibility of blended learning methodologies is utilised - such as Flipped Classroom in the Tutorials, on-line video resources and recorded tutorials delivered through the Brightspace module site.
The learning experience of students is directly affected by the design of learning materials, delivery of such materials and assessment thereof. The principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) have been applied so that Multiple Means of Engagement, Representation and Action & Expression are built in. Attention is also paid to the principles of Laurillard's ABC Curriculum Design process with all 6 learning types (Acquisition, Collaboration, Discussion, Investigation, Practice and Production) utilised in terms of delivery, engagement and assessment for the module.
With regard to assessment - care is taken in the design of assessment vehicles used in the module so that they are challenge driven, authentic and constructively aligned with the Learning Objectives for the Module.
A crucial piece of the learning experience is communication between faculty and students, as well as peer-to peer interactions. These will be proactively managed primarily through the channels available on Brightspace, plus direct contact between faculty and students before and after lectures and via e-mail. Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant): Module content is continuously informed by both academic and industry research on the subject matter, pertinent to the discipline of Construction Management.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Hughes, W., Champion R. and Murdoch, J (2015)
"Construction Contracts - Law and Management"
, Routledge: UK
Powell, G. (2016)
Construction Contract Preparation and Management - From concept to completion 2nd Ed
, Palgrave MacMillan: UK
Other Relevant Texts:
Adriaanse, J. (2016)
Construction Contract Law" 4th Ed
, Palgrave MacMillan: UK
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
BSCMENUFA - CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND ENGINEERING
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Autumn
Module Leader:
john.spillane@ul.ie