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On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
1. Advanced Understanding of Construction Technology:
Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of advanced construction technologies, including the latest innovations and trends in the construction industry
2. Proficiency in Construction Design:
Develop the ability to design complex detailing for complex projects, considering other factors such as sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and functionality
3. Project Management Skills:
Demonstrate high level aptitudes on how to manage construction projects effectively, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, and controlling resources
4. Sustainability and Green Buildings Practices:
Develop comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the importance of sustainable construction practices and apply green building principles to construction projects
5. Risk Management:
Apply high synthesis to generation of method statements and use these to identify risks in construction projects and develop strategies to mitigate these risks
6. Communication and Leadership Skills:
Develop persuasive communication and leadership skills in construction design and ability to lead others in construction project teams and communicate effectively with stakeholders.
This module will explore the characteristics of large scale non-domestic buildings. Attention will be given to preparatory activities for below-ground level structures including stabilisation techniques in the ground with deep pockets of sulfates; vibro compaction, vibro floatation and concrete grouting including ground freezing. Contemporary Retention systems for deep retaining walls are used in the construction of basements and piling foundations, tunnelling, ground freezing and composite framing for larger, more complex skyscrapers. Complex framing systems in the form of shear walls, exterior cladding systems of cladding, curtain walling systems-, wide span roofs for sports facilities, and construction of civil infrastructure cofferdams. Attention will turn to the theoretical design of structural and non-structural elements as rooted in the case study of tall buildings around the world including water-holding retaining structures. Students will be introduced to design concepts applicable to tall buildings including building safety concerning fire safety. Considerable attention will also be given to issues of the Building Safety Act of 2022 as well as the Global conventions under the Climate Change Act 2008 (2050) target Amended 2019 will also receive deeper consideration.
The content in this module assumes prior learning at level 4 (Construction Technology and Design 1 - CDT1) and level 5 (Construction Technology and Design 2, CDT2) respectively. This prior learning dictates what is in CD3; comprising topics least likely to be at levels 4 and 5. Below is simply an indicative list:
- Excavation into deep sea or riverbeds prior to concrete bases for pylons, bridge columns or sea wind turbines or lighthouses
- Concreting in deep salted sea water
- Piling foundations in grounds saturated with sulfates
- Tunnelling principles (under existing buildings or into rock outcrops)
- Constructing a train station over an existing fresh-water pond
- Cofferdams
- Ground freezing
- Façade retention system
- Conservation and repair techniques adopted on listed building projects.
The teaching in this module involves a mixture of formal lecturing introducing principles and student-centred workshops.
1. Lectures: Lectures will be utilised to deliver theoretical knowledge and concepts related to advanced construction technology and design of Nondomestic and large-scale buildings such as Highrise buildings.
2. Case Studies: Case studies will be used to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world construction projects. Students may analyse and evaluate case studies of complex construction projects, examining the construction technology and design aspects of the projects. Case studies allow students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by identifying challenges, proposing solutions, and considering the implications of different design and technology choices.
3. Practical Exercises: Practical exercises will provide students with hands-on experience in applying advanced construction technology and design principles. Students may engage in activities such as construction material testing, construction system modelling, or design exercises. Practical exercises allow students to develop practical skills and gain a deeper understanding of the application of Advanced construction technology and design concepts.
4. Group Projects: Group projects when used in seminars are aimed at promoting effective collaboration and teamwork among students. During seminars, students will work in groups to tackle complex construction technology and design challenges. Group projects encourage students to apply their knowledge and skills in a collaborative setting, fostering communication, problem-solving, and project management skills.
5. Guest Lectures and Industry Engagement: Inviting guest lecturers from the construction industry or organising industry visits will provide students with insights into real-world construction technology and design practices. Guest lecturers may share their expertise and experiences, providing students with a practical perspective on the application of construction technology and design. Industry engagement activities can also help students develop professional networks and gain exposure to current industry trends and practices.
6. Research and Independent Study: Students will be encouraged to engage in research and independent study in order to explore specific areas of interest within Construction Technology and Design 3. Students may conduct literature reviews, research projects, or independent studies on topics related to construction materials, methods, or technologies. Research and independent study foster critical thinking, independent learning, and the development of research skills.
Lectures - seminars
Hours: 2hrs x 10 weeks = 20hrs
Intended Group Size: All three cohorts
Workshops - tutorials
Hours: 2hrs x 5 weeks = 10hrs
Intended Group Size: 20
Practical - simulations
Hours: 2hrs x 5 sessions = 10 hrs
Intended Group Size: 20
Guided independent study
Hours: 260
Further Details Relating to Assessment
The MSc Construction Management will utilise multiple forms of formative and summative assessment across the modules, with examples of negotiated assignments where a list of topics to choose from is given, and students elect the subject that appeals to them.
Module-specific skills and knowledge
1. Advanced Construction Materials:
Assessing students' knowledge and understanding of advanced construction materials, including their properties, performance, and applications. This could involve questions or tasks that require students to identify and explain the characteristics and benefits of specific materials, as well as their suitability for different construction applications.
2. Construction Methods and Technologies:
Assessing students' understanding of advanced construction methods and technologies, including off-site construction, modular construction, and digital technologies. This could involve questions or tasks that require students to analyse and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of different construction methods and technologies, as well as their implications for project delivery and performance.
3. Sustainable Construction Practices:
Assessing students' knowledge and understanding of sustainable construction practices and green building principles. This could involve questions or tasks that require students to explain the concepts of sustainability in construction, identify sustainable design strategies, and evaluate the environmental and social impacts of different construction practices.
4. Building Information Modelling (BIM):
Assessing students' ability to apply BIM technology in Construction Management practice. This could involve tasks that require students to use BIM software to create and manipulate 3D models, perform clash detection, extract quantities from BIM models, and generate cost estimates or schedules based on BIM data.
5. Construction Project Design and Analysis:
Assessing students' ability to analyse and evaluate construction project designs. This could involve tasks that require students to review and critique construction project designs, considering factors such as structural integrity, building services integration, energy efficiency, and compliance with building regulations and codes.
Please note that, in order to ensure students meet the requirements of Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), a pass mark in all assessed components is needed. Students are also referred to Module Handbooks for full details.
001 Technical Drawing + report; 3,000 words (including Annotations); 50%; Week 8 Term 1 50%
002 Unseen Exam; 1.5hrs; 50%; End of Term 1 50%
Module Coordinator - PRS_CODE=
Level - 7
Credit Value - 30
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 7T1