MSc (Information Systems Management)

 

As part of their postgraduate degree programme, the MSc (Information Systems Management) students must undertake a service learning element in the form of a compulsory project.  These projects involve voluntary work where students use the skills they learn in class to address the needs of local organisations.  

 

The project requires the students to analyse the operations of an organisation, focus in on a problem area, design a solution to that problem in consultation with the users, and develop and implement that solution.  Students also have the opportunity to get involved in civic engagement and volunteering and help a local organisation.  The aim of these projects is to allow the students to practice and apply the skills they have learned on the course, such as Web development, project management, database design, teamwork and interpersonal communications.

MSc in Information Systems Management Programme Director Chris Barry explains, “The field of Business Information Systems is primarily about helping organisations to solve real problems and grasp opportunities. Many people do not fully understand how innovative IT applications can be potentially very beneficial within their workplace, often because they are not aware of the capabilities of technology.  This is where our postgraduate students can help.”

 

Local organisations that have benefited from these projects include COPE Galway, NUI Galway Rowing Club, Cancer Care West, Western Care Association and People with Disabilities in Ireland (PwDI).

 

The Community Knowledge Initiative supports and oversees service learning at NUI Galway. Service learning is a pedagogical tool that connects students with their local community through practical work experience.  Students learn from engaging with communities by active participation.