CON4063 - Introduction to Measurement and Costing

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, apprentices will be able to:

1 - Understand the fundamental principles of measurement and costing in construction projects including the methods and techniques used to quantity materials, labour, and resources
2 - Develop proficiency in taking accurate measurement, using traditional methods and IT to prepare bills of quantities, and estimating construction costs for various building elements
3 - Analyse, synthesise the factors influencing construction costs such as materials prices, labour rates, overheads, and profit margins, to prepare and apply appropriate and reliable cost estimates and budgets for construction projects.

Content:

Understanding and applying New Rules of Measurement (NRM1 and NRM2) to the preparation of a schedule of elements, using traditional BCIS (Building Cost Information) - A standard form of analysis using both quantitative and qualitative approaches, including the preparation of schedule and content of building elements for Bills of Quantities (BOQ). Critical to the above is the understanding and knowledge of how to identify resources, equipment and the construction sequencing and assembly of domestic and non-domestic built assets. This also includes the financial pricing of respective building types for a variety of purposes, including the valuation of new works and existing built assets. Transferrable knowledge from the construction technology and design module is ideal for developing a deeper awareness of the sequencing of building elements for measurement purposes, including the onsite preparation and use of principal building materials. Fundamentally, a very good knowledge and understanding of architectural drawings involves the ability to annotate and interpret plans, and elevations, using a variety of outputs (hand drawn and or through the use of digital building information modelling BIM). You will also develop an understanding of on-site management of resources and control techniques using strategic cashflow management akin to construction project management.

Learning and Teaching Information:

1. Lectures: For a vocational content these will be critical to delivering theoretical concepts, principles, and industry knowledge. Lectures will be supplemented with visual aids, case studies, Mock up, Models, simulations and video content based on real-world examples to enhance understanding and engagement.

A variety of teaching and learning strategies will be employed throughout the module in order to ensure the acquisition and development of appropriate concepts, knowledge and skills and achievement of the stated learning outcomes. A variety of teaching and learning methods provide access to learning to meet a wide range of learner needs and are aimed at widening participation amongst learners to avoid exclusion and develop learner skills in academic studies and personal life situations.

The module will be delivered on a blended learning basis, with the apprentices attending a delivery workshop to knowledge to complete all aspects of the module. The module will be taught on a block release basis and will include lecture style knowledge content and seminar style activities to discuss the content and enabling the learner to place it into context. This module will also have virtual tutorial café (VTCs) sessions, these group sessions allow for reflective time following the delivery and will be utilised to support the learner in unpacking the content and the assessment requirements. VTC sessions will also be utilised as formative peer feedback sessions.

The apprentices will also participate in a variety of on-line activities throughout the duration of the module, using the VLE to further develop their academic skills.

Independent study time should be spent on specific pre learning (on-demand learning – available to all students on Moodle), for example, engaging in specific background reading of the topic and online exercises. Post learning activities will be provided by the module tutor but these will generally be assessment focused enabling the learner to achieve the assessment requirements.

All activities and materials provided on Moodle will support the module content for the module delivery including pre, live and post activities and resources. The sequencing of the sessions will provide re-enforcement of the theoretical concepts developed during the delivery in a progressive pattern, aimed at developing knowledge and overall understanding.

2. Group Discussions: With the lecturer as a facilitator of the learning, group activities will be used to explore and analyse construction and quality methods including contentious issues around design, procurement and sustainable construction methods. The debate will bring about different perspectives and empower students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

3. Case Studies: Case studies from industry will allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world construction scenarios. Students, will analyse and evaluate complex construction projects, identify challenges, and propose solutions based on their understanding of and needs of Quantity Surveyors.

4. Simulations: Simulations activities will be used to simulate Quantity surveying practice and allow students to practice decision-making, problem-solving, and communication skills in a controlled environment.

5. Project-Based Learning: Project-based learning will be used so students work on real or simulated construction projects. Students will work in teams to plan, execute, and manage construction projects, applying their knowledge and skills to solve practical Quantity surveying problems and to achieve project objectives.

6. Guest Lectures and Industry Experts: Invitations will be extended to guest lecturers and industry experts to share their experiences and insights from a broader perspective of quantity surveying practice. Guest lecturers will bring and share into a classroom real-world examples industry trends, and best practices, enhancing the relevance and applicability of the curriculum to Quantity Surveying.

7. Technology Integration: Incorporating technology and estimating software and planning tools of various software commonly used in the construction industry, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) software, Bentley Virtuosity planning software, Catto, Autodesk take off, iTwo Cost X and other project management software, and virtual reality simulations. The negotiated Demonstration room and dedicated computer lab for CBE programmes will help in creating live spaces for interactive learning, improve engagement and embedded the much-needed employability skills based on real world industry tools.

8. Assessment Methods: Assessment methods will align with the learning outcomes of the BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying programme and will include written assignments, and exams as prescribed by the Professional bodies.



Planned LTU Off-the-Job Delivery Learning:

Lectures
Hours: 28
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Virtual Tutorial Cafe
Hours: 10
Intended Group Size: Cohort



Planned Off the Job Learning:

Training Plan Activities
Hours: 58
Intended Group Size: Individual



Minimum Self-Directed Off the Job Learning and Practical Training:

Hours: 204



Further Details Relating to Assessment

This module is designed to provide the apprentice with a sufficient grounding in measurement and analytical estimating to be able to apply measurement skills to more advanced forms of construction and perform measurement and estimating duties in the role of a junior quantity surveyor in a practitioner’s office.

Overall, all assessments are designed to evaluate students' understanding of Quantity Surveying concepts, their ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios, and their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It is important to note that a combination of different teaching strategies will be adopted to cater to different learning styles and engage and meet the varying needs and learning potential of all students.

001: A measurement and estimating case study project involving cost estimation for a more advanced construction (basement, designed foundations, reinforced concrete or steel frame) Report containing sufficient cost elements.

002: Formal unseen examination also covering cost estimation of basic and more advanced construction.

Attention is given to ensuring all the six strands for the Curriculum for Social Justice - CFSJ: Curriculum Design Principles and Practices are complied with, namely:
- Race Equity
- Mental Health and Well Being
- Internationalisation
- Education for Sustainable Development
- Employability and Enterprise
- Digital Pedagogy.

Please note, to ensure apprentices meet all Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Mandatory and Technical core competencies, pass marks in all assessed components are required.

Assessment:

Fact File

Module Coordinator - PRS_CODE=
Level - 4
Credit Value - 30
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 4AP

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