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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 6
Lesson 1 Introduction How a Building is Designed and Built
Describe the Difference Between a Wet-Pipe and a Dry-Pipe System, Identify Components and the Construction Sequence, Describe the Sequence of Operations of a Fire Suppression System During a Fire
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Lesson 2 Fire Suppression
Describe the Purpose of a Fire Alarm System, Identify Fire Alarm System Devices and Equipment, Describe Fire Alarm Inputs, Control and Outputs, Identify the Construction Sequence for Fire Alarm
Lesson 3 Fire Alarm and Life Safety
Determine Options for Temp Conveyance in Construction, Describe the Difference Between Elevator Types, Identify the Construction Sequence for Installing Elevators, Escalators and Moving Walkways
Lesson 4 Conveying Equipment
Identify Final MEP Activities Including Trim, Labels and Tags, Describe the Purpose and Activities Involved With Startup and Testing, Describe the Purpose of Commissioning
Lesson 5 MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
Describe the Punchlist Process, Identify Typical Requirements for Certificate of Occupancy, Identify Requirements for Final Completion, Describe the Process to Turnover a Building and Post-Occupancy
Lesson 6 Project Closeout
Course Conclusion
Lesson 7 Course Conclusion

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides a broad overview of building systems and materials, which is standard in the construction industry
Taught by Matthew Morris, who is recognized for his work in building materials and systems
Develops a construction and engineering vocabulary, which is a core skill for anyone working in the construction industry
Examines the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities, which is highly relevant to project management and coordination
Explores numerous considerations when choosing different building materials and systems, which is crucial for making informed decisions during design and construction

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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 6 of 6 with these activities:
Create a comprehensive study guide
Facilitates efficient course review and consolidation of knowledge by organizing notes, assignments, and other course materials.
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  • Gather all relevant course materials, including lecture notes, textbooks, and assignments.
  • Identify key concepts and topics covered in the course.
  • Summarize and organize the materials into a cohesive study guide.
  • Use the study guide to review the course content regularly.
Read 'Building Construction Illustrated'
Provides a comprehensive overview of building construction principles and systems, supplementing the course content.
Show steps
  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts and illustrations.
  • Review the book's case studies and examples to reinforce understanding.
  • Use the book as a reference guide throughout the course for additional clarification.
Review construction sequence
Helps to strengthen foundational knowledge of the sequence of construction activities, ensuring a better grasp of the course content.
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  • Gather resources such as textbooks, online articles, or construction manuals.
  • Break down the construction process into smaller, manageable phases.
  • Identify the key milestones and dependencies between different construction activities.
  • Create a visual representation, such as a flowchart or timeline, to illustrate the construction sequence.
Five other activities
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Identify building materials and systems
Enhances recognition and understanding of various building materials and systems, facilitating better comprehension of course topics.
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  • Gather different material samples, such as wood, concrete, metal, and plastics.
  • Examine the properties, applications, and advantages of each material.
  • Identify the different mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems used in buildings.
  • Analyze the interactions between various systems and their impact on building performance.
Explore online resources on building systems
Enhances understanding of building systems by utilizing online resources for further exploration and clarification.
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  • Identify reputable websites and online platforms that provide tutorials on building systems.
  • Select specific tutorials that align with the topics covered in the course.
  • Follow the tutorials, taking notes and experimenting with interactive simulations.
  • Use the tutorials as a supplement to the course material to deepen understanding.
Discuss construction codes and standards
Fosters critical thinking and collaboration by engaging in discussions on complex construction codes and standards, deepening understanding of their implications.
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  • Select a specific code or standard, such as the International Building Code or ADA Standards.
  • Read and analyze the code or standard thoroughly.
  • Participate in a group discussion, sharing insights and interpretations.
  • Identify areas of confusion or disagreement and research to find clarifications.
Develop a building materials selection plan
Provides practical experience in selecting and justifying building materials, reinforcing concepts covered in the course.
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  • Identify the specific requirements and constraints of a hypothetical building project.
  • Research different building materials and their properties.
  • Select materials that meet the project requirements, considering factors such as cost, durability, and sustainability.
  • Create a detailed materials selection plan, including justifications for each material choice.
Assist at a construction site
Offers hands-on experience in a real-world construction environment, complementing the theoretical knowledge gained in the course.
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  • Identify local construction companies or organizations where you can volunteer.
  • Contact the company or organization to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Attend safety training and orientation.
  • Assist with tasks such as material handling, site cleanup, or administrative support.

Career center

Learners who complete How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 6 of 6 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Project Manager
Project Managers oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of projects. This course can provide Project Managers with a comprehensive understanding of the construction process, including the roles of the major parties involved, the sequence of construction activities, and the considerations involved in selecting building materials and systems. This knowledge will be essential for Project Managers to successfully manage building projects and ensure that they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
Construction Manager
Construction Managers oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of construction projects. This course can provide Construction Managers with a comprehensive understanding of the construction process, including the roles of the major parties involved, the sequence of construction activities, and the considerations involved in selecting building materials and systems. This knowledge will be essential for Construction Managers to successfully manage building projects and ensure that they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
Architect
An Architect is responsible for designing and overseeing the construction of buildings. This course can be a useful tool for Architects by providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the components, materials and systems involved in commercial building design and construction. Additionally, the course covers the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities, which is essential knowledge for Architects to have in order to effectively manage building projects.
Fire Protection Engineer
Fire Protection Engineers design and implement systems to protect buildings from fire. This course can provide Fire Protection Engineers with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of fire protection, including the components, materials, and systems involved. Additionally, the course covers the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities, which will be essential for Fire Protection Engineers to effectively collaborate with other professionals on building projects.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, install, and maintain electrical systems in buildings. This course can help Electrical Engineers develop a strong foundation in the principles of building electrical systems, including the components, materials, and systems involved. Additionally, the course covers the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities, which will be essential for Electrical Engineers to effectively collaborate with other professionals on building projects.
Plumbing Engineer
Plumbing Engineers design and implement plumbing systems in buildings. This course can provide Plumbing Engineers with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of plumbing, including the components, materials, and systems involved. Additionally, the course covers the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities, which will be essential for Plumbing Engineers to effectively collaborate with other professionals on building projects.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design, build, and maintain mechanical systems in buildings, such as heating, cooling, and plumbing systems. This course can provide Mechanical Engineers with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of mechanical engineering, including the components, materials, and systems involved. Additionally, the course covers the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities, which will be essential for Mechanical Engineers to effectively collaborate with other professionals on building projects.
HVAC Engineer
HVAC Engineers design and implement systems to heat, ventilate, and air condition buildings. This course can provide HVAC Engineers with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of HVAC, including the components, materials, and systems involved. Additionally, the course covers the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities, which will be essential for HVAC Engineers to effectively collaborate with other professionals on building projects.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design, build, and maintain the infrastructure of our world, including buildings, bridges, roads, and water systems. This course can help Civil Engineers develop a strong foundation in the principles of building design and construction, which will be essential for their success in the field. Additionally, the course covers the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction of building systems & materials, which will help Civil Engineers to effectively collaborate with other professionals on building projects.
Structural Engineer
Structural Engineers design and implement the structural systems of buildings. This course can provide Structural Engineers with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of structural engineering, including the components, materials, and systems involved. Additionally, the course covers the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities, which will be essential for Structural Engineers to effectively collaborate with other professionals on building projects.
Interior designer
Interior Designers plan and execute the design of interior spaces in buildings. This course can provide Interior Designers with a comprehensive understanding of the construction process and the components, materials, and systems involved in commercial building design. Additionally, the course covers the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction of building systems & materials, which will help Interior Designers to effectively collaborate with other professionals on building projects.
Quantity Surveyor
Quantity Surveyors estimate and manage the cost of construction projects. This course can provide Quantity Surveyors with a comprehensive understanding of the construction process, including the roles of the major parties involved, the sequence of construction activities, and the considerations involved in selecting building materials and systems. This knowledge will be essential for Quantity Surveyors to accurately estimate and manage the cost of building projects.
Facilities Manager
Facilities Managers are responsible for the maintenance and operation of buildings. This course can provide Facilities Managers with a comprehensive understanding of the components, materials, and systems involved in commercial building design and construction. Additionally, the course covers the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities, which will be essential for Facilities Managers to effectively manage building operations and maintenance.
Real Estate Developer
Real Estate Developers acquire, develop, and manage real estate properties. This course can provide Real Estate Developers with a comprehensive understanding of the construction process and the components, materials, and systems involved in commercial building design. Additionally, the course covers the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction of building systems & materials, which will help Real Estate Developers to effectively collaborate with other professionals on building projects.
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architects design and implement outdoor spaces around buildings. This course can provide Landscape Architects with a comprehensive understanding of the construction process and the components, materials, and systems involved in commercial building design. Additionally, the course covers the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction of building systems & materials, which will help Landscape Architects to effectively collaborate with other professionals on building projects.

Reading list

We've selected 17 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 6 of 6.
This go-to textbook used by many construction professionals. It covers the basics of what systems need to be installed in a building and some background for what should be prioritized. It also covers the sequence of events that need to happen when constructing a commercial building.
A comprehensive visual guide to the components and systems of buildings, useful as a reference tool and for providing more depth to the course.
The industry standard reference for fire protection, providing in-depth information on fire suppression and alarm systems.
An industry standard reference that provides data on building materials and systems.
Provides an overview of the materials and methods used in building construction, which is useful background or prerequisite knowledge for this course.
Covers the different types of building materials and their properties, providing more depth on this topic.
A specialized book covering the electrical equipment used in elevators and escalators, providing more depth on this topic.
Provides a visual guide to building codes, which is useful for understanding the regulatory context of building design and construction.

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