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Matthew Morris

No matter which role you have in a building construction project, it is vital that you understand the "guts" of a building in order to make a positive impact. For contractors, engineers, architects, real estate developers and facilities managers, it takes years or even decades to learn the materials and systems in a building. The typical source of this education is on-the-job because this material is not taught in schools. Young professionals spend an extraordinary amount of time trying to understand the complexities of a modern building. Every project is different and the materials and systems can change drastically from one building to the next. Time can be better spent by adding value to projects instead of learning terminology and construction sequencing. The lessons in the course have been developed to boil down years of on-the-job training into high-impact, bite-sized classes.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Identify the numerous components, materials and systems in a commercial building
  • Describe the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities
  • Identify the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction of building systems & materials
  • Describe the numerous considerations when choosing different building materials and systems
  • Develop a construction and engineering vocabulary
  • Evaluate key constraints and select all of the appropriate major systems and materials in a building

Syllabus

Introduction How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 3
Lesson 1 Introduction How a Building is Designed and Built
Lesson 2 Enclosure Preview
Read more
Describe the Requirements of the Enclosure, Identify the General Components of the Enclosure System, Describe Potential Risks in Enclosure Construction
Lesson 3 Enclosure
Describe the Advantages and Disadvantages of Steel Studs, Identify the Framing Options for an Exterior Steel Stud Wall, Identify the Sequence of Construction for an Exterior Steel Stud Wall
Lesson 4 Cold-Formed Steel Stud Exterior Walls
Describe the Purpose of Cladding, Identify the Construction Sequence for Metal Panels, Brick, Stone and Stucco
Lesson 5 Cladding
Identify Storefront Systems, Determine the Difference Between Stick-Built and Unitized Curtain Wall, Identify the Components of Curtain Wall and the Construction Sequence, Identify Structural Glass
Lesson 6 Curtain Wall
Determine the Requirements for a Roof, Describe the Difference Between Steep Roofs and Low-Slope Roofs, Identify the Assembly Components and Construction Sequence for Multiple Roofing Options
Lesson 7 Roofing
Identify the Requirements of Doors and Door Types, Describe Terminology for Doors, Frames and Hardware, Identify Material Options for Doors and Frames, Determine Characteristics of a Door Schedule
Lesson 8 Doors, Frames and Hardware
Identify the Requirements of Windows and Glass and Window and Glass Types, Describe Terminology for Windows, Identify Material Options for Window Frames, Identify the Construction Sequence
Lesson 9 Windows, Glass and Glazing

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops a construction engineering vocabulary, which is needed for the field
Develops an understanding of building materials and systems, which is highly relevant for contractors, engineers, architects, real estate developers and facilities managers
Taught by Matthew Morris, an industry professional
Examines the relationship between construction materials and systems
Describes the sequence of construction activities, which is critical for planning and execution
Examines numerous components, materials and systems in a commercial building, which provides a comprehensive overview of building design and construction

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Reviews summary

A step-by-step path to success

learners say this course provides a strong foundation in principles that promote effective learning, with easy-to-understand examples to support the theory presented. Students value the interactive exercises and engaging assignments, which reinforce the concepts discussed in the lectures. Additionally, the course offers well-structured content and a positive learning environment. Many learners report completing the course with a strong understanding of the subject matter and feeling more confident in their ability to apply what they have learned.
Many learners report completing the course with a strong understanding of the subject matter and feeling more confident in their ability to apply what they have learned.
"Many learners report completing the course with a strong understanding of the subject matter and feeling more confident in their ability to apply what they have learned."
Learners appreciate the interactive exercises and engaging assignments that help them apply the concepts they learn.
"Students value the interactive exercises and engaging assignments, which reinforce the concepts discussed in the lectures."
The course presents clear explanations of fundamental concepts supported by practical examples.
"this course provides a strong foundation in principles that promote effective learning, with easy-to-understand examples to support the theory presented."
"Additionally, the course offers well-structured content and a positive learning environment."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 3 of 6 with these activities:
Gather and review all course materials
Reviewing course syllabus, lecture slides, and readings will help you get a headstart on the course and identify potential areas of difficulty.
Show steps
  • Download and print out all syllabus and course materials
  • Review syllabus to identify key topics, assignments, and due dates
  • Preview lecture slides and identify any unfamiliar concepts
Review topics from High School Chemistry
Reviewing basic chemistry concepts will make learning the concepts in this course easier and quicker.
Browse courses on Chemistry
Show steps
  • Review your old chemistry notes
  • Take practice problems on topics like atomic structure, chemical reactions, and stoichiometry
Read the book 'Building Construction: Principles and Practices'
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of building construction and will help you understand the concepts covered in this course.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes
  • Answer the review questions at the end of each chapter
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a study group or find a peer to study with
Studying with peers will help you learn from each other and reinforce the concepts you learn in class.
Show steps
  • Find a study group or peer to study with
  • Set regular meeting times
  • Review lecture material, work on assignments, and quiz each other
Create a concept map of the course material
Creating a visual representation of the course material will help you understand the relationships between different concepts and improve your retention.
Show steps
  • Identify the main topics and subtopics of the course
  • Draw a diagram that shows the relationships between the topics
  • Add notes and examples to the diagram
Practice solving construction problems
Solving construction problems will help you apply the concepts you learn in the course and improve your problem-solving skills.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems in the textbook or online
  • Solve the practice problems and check your answers
  • Review your mistakes and try to identify areas where you need more practice
Create a construction plan for a small building
Creating a construction plan will help you apply the concepts you learn in the course and develop your design and planning skills.
Show steps
  • Choose a small building to design
  • Develop a site plan, floor plan, and elevation drawings
  • Specify the materials and construction methods that will be used
Contribute to an open-source construction project
Contributing to an open-source construction project will give you hands-on experience and help you learn from others in the field.
Show steps
  • Find an open-source construction project to contribute to
  • Review the project documentation and code
  • Make a contribution to the project

Career center

Learners who complete How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 3 of 6 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Design-Build Professional
A Design-Build Professional is responsible for both the design and construction of a building project. A course on how a building is designed and built is essential for this role as it provides the knowledge and skills needed to manage both the design and construction phases of a project. This knowledge can help you to ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and according to plans and specifications.
Structural Engineer
A Structural Engineer designs the structural elements of buildings, such as the beams, columns, and foundations. A course on how a building is designed and built can be extremely valuable for this role as it can help you to develop a strong understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to design structural elements that are safe and efficient, and to make informed decisions about the materials and systems that will be used.
Architect
An Architect designs buildings and ensures that they are safe and functional. A course on how a building is designed and built can be extremely valuable for this role as it can help you to develop a strong understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to design buildings that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, and to make informed decisions about the materials and systems that will be used.
Construction Superintendent
A Construction Superintendent supervises the construction of buildings and ensures that projects are completed according to plans and specifications. A course on how a building is designed and built is extremely valuable for this role as it provides the knowledge and skills needed to manage the construction process effectively. This knowledge can help you to ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and according to plans and specifications.
Real Estate Developer
A Real Estate Developer develops and manages real estate projects, such as residential and commercial buildings. A course on how a building is designed and built can be extremely valuable for this role as it can help you to develop a strong understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to make informed decisions about the development and management of real estate projects.
Project Manager
A Project Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and closure of a project. A course on how a building is designed and built can be useful for this role as it can help you to develop a better understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to make informed decisions throughout the project and manage the project effectively.
Construction Manager
A Construction Manager is responsible for overseeing the construction of buildings, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to plans and specifications. A course on how a building is designed and built can be useful for this role as it can help you to develop a strong foundation in the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. Learning about the construction process, materials, and systems can help you make informed decisions throughout the project and manage the project effectively.
Building Inspector
A Building Inspector ensures that buildings comply with building codes and regulations. A course on how a building is designed and built can be useful for this role as it can help you to develop a strong understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to identify potential hazards and to ensure that buildings are safe for occupancy.
Facilities Manager
A Facilities Manager manages the maintenance and repair of buildings and other facilities. A course on how a building is designed and built can be useful for this role as it can help you to develop a better understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to make informed decisions about the maintenance and repair of buildings and other facilities.
Construction Estimator
A Construction Estimator estimates the cost of construction projects. A course on how a building is designed and built can be useful for this role as it can help you to develop a better understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to make more accurate estimates and to identify potential cost savings.
Carpenter
A Carpenter constructs and repairs wooden structures, such as houses, bridges, and furniture. A course on how a building is designed and built can be useful for this role as it can help you to develop a better understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to work more efficiently and safely on construction sites.
Property Manager
A Property Manager manages the day-to-day operations of buildings, such as scheduling maintenance and repairs, collecting rent, and enforcing lease agreements. A course on how a building is designed and built may be useful for this role as it can help you to develop a better understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to make informed decisions about the maintenance and repair of buildings.
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs and builds infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and water systems. A course on how a building is designed and built may be useful for this role as it can help you to develop a better understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to design infrastructure that is both safe and efficient.
Electrician
An Electrician installs and repairs electrical systems in buildings. A course on how a building is designed and built can be useful for this role as it can help you to develop a better understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to work more efficiently and safely on construction sites.
Construction Laborer
A Construction Laborer performs a variety of tasks on construction sites, such as operating equipment, moving materials, and cleaning up. While a course on how a building is designed and built is not required for this role, it can be useful as it can help you to develop a better understanding of the construction process and the materials and systems used in buildings. This knowledge can help you to work more effectively and safely on construction sites.

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 3 of 6.
Provides a thorough overview of the materials used in construction, including their properties, applications, and performance. It valuable resource for students, professionals, and anyone interested in learning more about building materials.
The primary reference standard for design criteria and architectural details. It is commonly used by professionals in the architecture, interior design, and construction industries.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the construction management process, from planning and design to construction and completion. It valuable resource for students, professionals, and anyone interested in learning more about the management of construction projects.
An extensive source of current construction cost data for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Provides detailed information on materials, labor, and equipment costs.
A comprehensive reference of architectural design data, including space planning, building codes, and construction materials. Useful for architects, engineers, and students.
An illustrated guide to the entire building construction process, from planning and design to materials and methods. Written in an accessible style.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the materials and finishes used in architecture, including their properties, applications, and performance. It valuable resource for students, architects, engineers, and anyone interested in learning more about the materials and finishes used in buildings.
Provides a hands-on overview of construction technology, including the tools, materials, and methods used in construction. It valuable resource for students, contractors, and anyone interested in learning more about construction technology.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the graphic standards used in residential construction, including the symbols, abbreviations, and conventions used on construction drawings. It valuable resource for students, architects, engineers, and anyone interested in learning more about the graphic standards used in residential construction.
Provides a comprehensive overview of building construction, including the principles and practices used in the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings. It valuable resource for students, architects, engineers, and anyone interested in learning more about building construction.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the properties and performance of building materials, including their strength, durability, and sustainability. It valuable resource for students, architects, engineers, and anyone interested in learning more about the materials used in construction.
Provides a comprehensive overview of modern construction, including the latest materials, technologies, and techniques used in the design and construction of buildings. It valuable resource for students, architects, engineers, and anyone interested in learning more about the future of construction.

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