Name & position
Paul Maher – Value Stream Lead Manufacturing Engineer
Programme studied
BSc (Hons) Engineering Management
What was the best thing about your studies?
The course content invited me to challenge my assumptions and beliefs around organizational culture, and consequently how influencing this culture can enhance innovation and empower employees. There is also a very good module on applied problem solving, which I found very beneficial leading a cross-functional team.
We plan the degree to be flexible, did this help you?
Absolutely. As I’m the lead Engineering involved in the delivery of a new pharmaceutical production line, I could not commit to defined days and times for lectures or webinars. The flexible WBDL program allowed me to complete the modules in my own time.
How has/will the programme help you in your career?
All the modules within the degree have relevance, either on a personal level, organizational level and very often on both. However, fundamentally the WBDL program requires the individual to be organized and structured in their approach to their studies. An example of this may be when discussing a hypothesis with your tutor by e-mail, it may be better use of time to structure and correlate your ideas, suppositions, and questions so that your tutor can effectively advise, and provide appropriate guidance. Therefore the learner is more likely to get the feedback they require in one reply as opposed to several separate communications. This awareness of the benefits of organized communication has been of great benefit in my career.
How did you find the programme delivery?
Resources. Excellent. A huge online library and access to other academic sources also
Individual tutors. Tutors were all top class. They were personable people who took a genuine interest in my education and did their very best to support me at every opportunity.
Learning at distance/using technology. This can be a lonely furrow, as one of the downsides is that you may well not have a peer group to discuss topics and challenge each other in a positive way. However WBDL is a good fit for me, and only a basic use of technology is required.
How did you balance home, study and work life?
Working to a pre-planned schedule, in as much as is realistic, is important. It not only adds structure to what you’re doing but it gave me something to strive for. I’d say not to beat yourself up too much if the schedule loses its shape, but do attempt to correct the misalignment sooner rather than later.
Also, it’s helpful to have a designated study area. In my case, I was able to convert a back bedroom to a study and the privacy that afforded me to study and reflect was important.