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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 2
Lesson 1 Introduction How a Building is Designed and Built
Structures Preview
Describe the Purpose of the Building Frame, Identify the Typical Load Path, Describe Stresses Related to Beams in Bending, Identify Structural Shapes, Determine Structural Choices for a Given Building
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Lesson 3 Structures
Identify Typical Types of Cranes, Describe How Cranes are Mobilized, Assembled and Demobilized, Identify Typical Types of Cranes in a Permanent Building, Describe Crane Risks and Crane Safety
Lesson 4 Cranes
Determine Advantages and Disadvantages of CIP Concrete, Identify Limitations with Spans, Describe the Benefits of Pre-Stressing, Identify the Sequence of Building a Concrete Structure
Lesson 5 Cast-In-Place Concrete Structures Part 1
Lesson 6 Cast-In-Place Concrete Structures Part 2
Identify Different Types and Uses of Precast Concrete, Determine the Advantages and Disadvantages of Structural Precast Concrete, Identify the Precast Concrete Erection Sequence
Lesson 7 Precast Concrete
Describe the Importance of Various Metals Through History, Identify the Limitations and Advantages of Copper, Bronze, Iron and Steel
Lesson 8 History of Steel
Determine the Advantages and Disadvantages of Structural Steel Identify Different Steel Shapes Identify the Sequence for Steel Erection, Describe the Components of a Composite Slab on Metal Deck
Lesson 9 Structural Steel
Describe the Advantages and Disadvantages of Masonry Structural Systems, Tilt-Up Concrete Structural Systems and Wood Structures
Lesson 10 Masonry, Tilt-Up Concrete, Wood
Summarize the Advantages and Disadvantages of Common Structural Systems Summarize the Structural Choices for a Given Building Type, Determine the Follow-On Sequence for Activities After the Structure
Lesson 11 Structures Summary

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores complex topics in building construction, which is uncommon at this level
Taught by Matthew Morris, a recognized expert in building construction
Teaches foundational knowledge and skills for multiple roles in building construction
Provides a sequence for construction activities, which can help learners plan projects
Includes lessons on evaluating constraints, which can help learners make informed decisions
Requires learners to have some background knowledge in construction, which may limit accessibility

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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 2 of 6 with these activities:
Build a Glossary of Construction Terms
Enhance your vocabulary and understanding of key terms used in the construction industry.
Show steps
  • Compile a list of unfamiliar construction terms encountered during the course.
  • Research and define each term using textbooks, online resources, or industry glossaries.
  • Organize the terms into a glossary for future reference.
Attend a Building Code Seminar
Gain a comprehensive understanding of building codes and regulations to ensure compliance in your projects.
Browse courses on Building Codes
Show steps
  • Search for local building code seminars or workshops.
  • Register and attend the seminar to learn about the latest code updates and requirements.
  • Ask questions and engage in discussions with industry experts.
Discuss Building Materials and Systems
Exchange knowledge and perspectives on building materials and systems with other students to enhance your understanding.
Browse courses on Construction Materials
Show steps
  • Join a study group or online forum dedicated to construction materials and systems.
  • Participate in discussions and share your insights on different materials and systems.
  • Present a short presentation on a specific material or system to the group.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Explore Structural Engineering Concepts
Enhance your understanding of structural engineering concepts to deepen your comprehension of building structures.
Browse courses on Structural Analysis
Show steps
  • Follow online tutorials on structural analysis and design.
  • Attend webinars or workshops on structural engineering topics.
  • Read books and articles on structural engineering principles.
Design a Building Floor Plan
Demonstrate your ability to apply your knowledge of building systems and materials by creating a detailed floor plan.
Browse courses on Building Design
Show steps
  • Choose a building type and purpose for your design.
  • Determine the functional requirements of the building.
  • Develop a preliminary sketch of the floor plan.
  • Create a detailed floor plan using CAD software.
Assist in a Construction Project
Gain practical experience and apply your knowledge in a real-world construction setting.
Browse courses on Construction Management
Show steps
  • Contact local construction companies or organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Assist with tasks such as material handling, site cleanup, or basic construction.
  • Observe and learn from experienced construction professionals.
Develop an Infographic on Building Sustainability
Demonstrate your understanding and promote awareness of sustainable building practices.
Browse courses on Sustainable Construction
Show steps
  • Research and gather information on various aspects of building sustainability.
  • Create an engaging infographic that visually presents the key concepts and benefits of sustainable construction.
  • Share your infographic on social media or professional platforms to educate and inspire others.
Participate in a Design Competition
Challenge yourself and demonstrate your design skills by participating in a competition.
Browse courses on Architectural Design
Show steps
  • Identify and research relevant design competitions.
  • Develop an innovative design proposal that meets the competition criteria.
  • Submit your proposal for evaluation by a panel of industry professionals.

Career center

Learners who complete How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 2 of 6 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Structural Engineer
Structural Engineers design and analyze the structural elements of buildings and other structures. They ensure that structures are safe and able to withstand the forces that act upon them. This course can help Structural Engineers develop a strong foundation in the principles of structural engineering. This knowledge will enable them to design and analyze more complex structures, and to more effectively communicate with other members of the project team.
Construction Project Manager
Construction Project Managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and executing construction projects. They oversee all aspects of a project, including design, engineering, construction, and closeout. This course can help Construction Project Managers develop a deep understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to make better decisions about project design and construction, and to more effectively manage project teams.
Construction Manager
Construction Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of construction projects. They are responsible for ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course can help Construction Managers develop a deep understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to make better decisions about project construction, and to more effectively manage project teams.
Architect
Architects design the overall appearance and layout of buildings and other structures. They also work with engineers to ensure that structures are safe and functional. This course can help Architects develop a deeper understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to design more efficient and sustainable buildings, and to more effectively collaborate with other members of the project team.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design and construct infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and water treatment plants. They also work with other engineers to ensure that infrastructure projects are safe and efficient. This course can help Civil Engineers develop a strong foundation in the principles of structural engineering. This knowledge will enable them to design and analyze more complex infrastructure projects, and to more effectively communicate with other members of the project team.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design and build machines and other mechanical systems. They also work with other engineers to ensure that mechanical systems are safe and efficient. This course can help Mechanical Engineers develop a deeper understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to design and build more efficient and sustainable mechanical systems, and to more effectively collaborate with other members of the project team.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design and build electrical systems for buildings and other structures. They also work with other engineers to ensure that electrical systems are safe and efficient. This course can help Electrical Engineers develop a deeper understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to design and build more efficient and sustainable electrical systems, and to more effectively collaborate with other members of the project team.
Building Inspector
Building Inspectors ensure that buildings and other structures meet building codes and safety standards. They also work with other inspectors to ensure that buildings are safe for occupancy. This course can help Building Inspectors develop a deep understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to more effectively inspect buildings and to identify potential safety hazards.
Construction Estimator
Construction Estimators determine the cost of construction projects. They also work with other project team members to develop project budgets. This course can help Construction Estimators develop a deep understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to more accurately estimate project costs, and to more effectively communicate with other members of the project team.
Real Estate Developer
Real Estate Developers acquire and develop land for residential, commercial, and industrial uses. They also work with other professionals to design and construct buildings and other structures. This course can help Real Estate Developers develop a deep understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to make better decisions about project development, and to more effectively communicate with other members of the project team.
Facilities Manager
Facilities Managers are responsible for the operation and maintenance of buildings and other facilities. They also work with other professionals to ensure that facilities are safe and efficient. This course can help Facilities Managers develop a deep understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to more effectively manage facilities, and to more effectively communicate with other members of the project team.
Property Manager
Property Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of residential and commercial properties. They also work with other professionals to ensure that properties are safe and well-maintained. This course can help Property Managers develop a deep understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to more effectively manage properties, and to more effectively communicate with other members of the project team.
Construction Supervisor
Construction Supervisors oversee the day-to-day operations of construction projects. They are responsible for ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course can help Construction Supervisors develop a strong foundation in the principles of construction management. This knowledge will enable them to more effectively supervise construction projects, and to more effectively communicate with other members of the project team.
Construction Superintendent
Construction Superintendents oversee the day-to-day operations of construction projects. They are responsible for ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course can help Construction Superintendents develop a deep understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to more effectively manage construction projects, and to more effectively communicate with other members of the project team.
Construction Consultant
Construction Consultants provide advice and guidance to clients on construction projects. They also work with other professionals to design and construct buildings and other structures. This course can help Construction Consultants develop a deep understanding of the materials and systems used in commercial buildings. This knowledge will enable them to provide more informed advice to clients, and to more effectively communicate with other members of the project team.

Reading list

We've selected eight 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 2 of 6.
Provides a comprehensive overview of reinforced concrete design, including materials, analysis, and design methods. It good reference for students and professionals in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of steel structures design and practice, including materials, analysis, and design methods. It good reference for students and professionals in the field.
Provides an overview of building codes and their applications. It good resource for students and professionals in the field.
Provides an overview of construction scheduling principles and practices. It good resource for students and professionals in the field.
Provides an overview of construction safety principles and practices. It good resource for students and professionals in the field.

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