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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.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
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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
- 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
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
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause 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
Practical building enclosure systems
According to learners, this course (Part 3 of 6) provides a focused look at the 'guts' of a building, specifically concentrating on enclosure systems. Students found the modules covering topics like curtain walls, roofing, and window systems to be the most valuable, offering practical insights into construction sequences, material options, and the roles of various parties. The course is particularly relevant for young professionals and those looking to build a solid engineering and construction vocabulary. While generally seen as informative, some reviews indicate that its 'bite-sized' format means it may not delve deep enough into complex topics for experienced professionals and might assume some prior knowledge, potentially from the earlier parts of the series.
Provides a good overview but may lack depth in areas.
"It's a solid introduction to these systems, but not enough for complex design."
"The bite-sized format is good for overview but limits deep dives."
"Covers a lot of ground but sometimes leaves you wanting more detail."
Helps build essential engineering and construction terms.
"Helped me develop a stronger vocabulary related to building systems."
"I learned many new technical terms used on construction sites."
"Good for anyone needing to improve their understanding of industry jargon."
Highly relevant for specific roles like engineers or contractors.
"This is exactly the type of practical knowledge young engineers need early in their careers."
"Very useful for someone working on the construction side to understand the design intent."
"Relevant content for professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction."
Offers insights into construction sequence and material choices.
"The course does a good job explaining the sequence of construction for the systems discussed."
"I appreciated the discussions on material advantages and disadvantages."
"Learning about how these systems are actually put together in the real world was very useful."
Detailed coverage of key building enclosure components.
"The modules specifically detailing different cladding types and curtain wall systems were very helpful."
"It provided a clear breakdown of roof assemblies and requirements."
"Understanding the various components of exterior walls, windows, and doors was well covered here."
May assume familiarity with previous parts or concepts.
"As Part 3, it felt like it expected me to know things from Parts 1 and 2."
"Might be a bit challenging if you haven't taken the earlier courses."
"Could benefit from a brief recap or clearer prerequisites."
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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'
Show steps
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.
View
Chudley and Greeno's Building Construction...
on Amazon
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Gather and review all course materials
Show steps
Reviewing course syllabus, lecture slides, and readings will help you get a headstart on the course and identify potential areas of difficulty.
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Reviewing basic chemistry concepts will make learning the concepts in this course easier and quicker.
Browse courses on
Chemistry
Show steps
Show steps
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'
Show steps
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.
View
Chudley and Greeno's Building Construction...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Studying with peers will help you learn from each other and reinforce the concepts you learn in class.
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Creating a visual representation of the course material will help you understand the relationships between different concepts and improve your retention.
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Solving construction problems will help you apply the concepts you learn in the course and improve your problem-solving skills.
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Creating a construction plan will help you apply the concepts you learn in the course and develop your design and planning skills.
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Contributing to an open-source construction project will give you hands-on experience and help you learn from others in the field.
Show steps
Show steps
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:
Construction Superintendent
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.
Design-Build Professional
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.
Real Estate Developer
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.
Structural Engineer
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
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 Manager
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
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.
Construction Estimator
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.
Facilities Manager
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.
Project Manager
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.
Civil Engineer
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
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.
Carpenter
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
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.
Construction Laborer
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.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1wdm3c/how
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.
Architectural Graphic Standards provides comprehensive guidance on building design and construction for architects, engineers, contractors, and students. It includes detailed information on materials, assemblies, and systems, as well as extensive reference data.
Save
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.
Building Construction Illustrated highly visual guide to the construction of buildings, from the foundation to the roof. It is an excellent resource for students, architects, engineers, and anyone interested in learning more about how buildings are built.
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.
Save
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.
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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.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1wdm3c/how
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