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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

Describe the Topics Covered in the Course and Identify How to Apply the Topics of This Course in Your Life and Career
Lesson 1 Introduction How a Building is Designed and Built
Read more
Site Utilities and Substructure Preview
Describe the Major Project Delivery Systems, Identify Key Considerations for Choosing Materials & Systems, Describe the Purpose of Building Codes, Identify Major Building Elements and Systems
Lesson 3 Building Construction Overview
Describe the Importance of a Geotechnical Report and How it is Created, Identify Soil Types, Determine Soil Properties and Soil Stability
Lesson 4 Soils and Subsurface Conditions
Identify Heavy Equipment for Earthmoving and Utilities, Identify Lifts and Scaffold
Lesson 5 Equipment
Describe the Purpose of Clearing and Grubbing Determine Requirements to Protect the Public and Adjacent Structures/Utilities, Describe Erosion Control, Identify Activities in Clearing & Grubbing
Lesson 6 Clearing and Grubbing
Describe the Procedures and Safety Requirements for Trenching, Identify the Proper Sequence for Installing Pipe, Identify Typical Wet and Dry Utilities and Materials Used for Each
Lesson 7 Site Utilities
Describe Mass Excavation and Structural Excavation, Identify Excavation Techniques, Determine the Reasons for Choosing Different Shoring / Excavation Support Systems, Identify the Sequence for Shoring
Lesson 8 Earthwork and Excavation Support
Describe the Requirements of a Building Foundation, Identify Typical Foundation Systems, Determine Reasons for Choosing Different Foundation Systems, Describe the Sequence for Foundation Construction
Lesson 9 Foundations
Describe the History and Benefits of Concrete, Identify the Components of Concrete, Describe How to Mix and Place Concrete, Identify Best Practices in Concrete Construction
Lesson 10 Concrete
Describe the Purpose of a Foundation Wall or Grade Beam, Identify the Sequence for Building a Foundation Wall or Grade Beam, Identify the Sequence for Placing a Slab on Grade
Lesson 11 Grade Beams and Foundation Wall

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides comprehensive understanding of commercial building components and systems crucial for various construction roles
Facilitates efficient project implementation by condensing years of practical insights into digestible lessons
Emphasizes the significance of a solid vocabulary in engineering and construction
Helps professionals navigate complexities and make informed decisions in building design and material selection
Covers a wide spectrum of building systems and materials, providing a holistic understanding
Requires no prior knowledge, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced professionals seeking to expand their expertise in commercial 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 1 of 6 with these activities:
Review Notes
Reviewing notes from previous coursework can help strengthen your understanding of the fundamentals of building construction.
Show steps
  • Locate and gather notes from previous courses on construction
  • Review the notes for key concepts and principles
  • Summarize the notes in a concise and organized manner
Building Materials Glossary
Creating a visual glossary of building materials and systems can improve your vocabulary and understanding of the different components used in construction.
Browse courses on Construction Materials
Show steps
  • Research and identify key building materials and systems
  • Create a table or visual representation that includes images, descriptions, and specifications for each material
  • Organize the glossary logically, for example, by material type, function, or application
Attend a Building Science Workshop
Attending workshops provides opportunities for hands-on learning, networking, and exposure to emerging technologies and trends in the construction industry.
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant workshops or conferences
  • Register and attend the workshop
  • Actively participate in discussions, demonstrations, and hands-on activities
  • Network with industry professionals and experts
Four other activities
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Show all seven activities
Explore Building Codes and Standards
Familiarizing yourself with building codes and standards will help you understand the legal and safety requirements related to construction projects.
Browse courses on Building Codes
Show steps
  • Identify relevant building codes and standards applicable to your region or industry
  • Review the codes and standards to understand their purpose, scope, and requirements
  • Participate in online or in-person training or workshops on building codes and standards
Host a Building Materials Discussion Group
Engaging in discussions with peers allows you to exchange ideas, test your understanding, and learn from the diverse perspectives of others in the field.
Browse courses on Collaborative Learning
Show steps
  • Identify interested peers or classmates who are willing to participate
  • Choose a specific topic or area of construction to focus on
  • Schedule regular meetings and establish ground rules for the group
  • Facilitate discussions, encourage participation, and synthesize key points
Design a Building Model
Creating a model of a building can provide an immersive and interactive way to apply your knowledge of building materials, systems, and design principles.
Browse courses on Building Design
Show steps
  • Select a specific building or structure to model
  • Research and gather data on the materials, systems, and design elements used in the building
  • Use architectural software or tools to create a detailed 3D model
  • Present your model and explain the design choices and considerations
Contribute to Open-Source Construction Projects
Participating in open-source projects allows you to engage with a global community of experts, contribute to the advancement of construction knowledge, and learn from the diverse practices and approaches used in the industry.
Show steps
  • Identify open-source construction projects that align with your interests
  • Review the project documentation and contribute to discussions
  • Offer assistance with coding, documentation, testing, or other aspects of the project

Career center

Learners who complete How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 1 of 6 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Construction Project Manager
Construction Project Managers plan, coordinate, and supervise construction projects from inception to completion. Many oversee budgets and schedules to ensure projects stay within financial and time constraints. Others may need to manage teams of architects, engineers, and construction workers to execute building plans. Whether you are new to the field or a seasoned professional, this course will help develop a deep understanding of the construction process. This knowledge can translate to a promotion or even a more senior position at a new company.
Construction Manager
Construction Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of construction projects. They may work with architects, engineers, and other construction professionals to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to plan. Construction Managers may oversee a variety of projects, such as residential, commercial, and industrial projects. This course is an excellent foundational course for anyone who wants to work in this field.
Architect
Architects design and oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. They may prepare drawings and specifications for projects, and they may also oversee the construction process to ensure that the project is completed according to plan. Architects often need a graduate degree and must pass a licensing exam. This course may be helpful in preparing for a licensing exam and for staying up-to-date with the latest construction techniques.
Construction Superintendent
Construction Superintendents oversee the day-to-day operations of construction projects. They may work with architects, engineers, and other construction professionals to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to plan. Construction Superintendents may oversee a variety of projects, such as residential, commercial, and industrial projects. This course is an excellent foundational course for anyone who wants to work in this field.
Project Engineer
Project Engineers work with architects and engineers to design and oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. They may also work on the design of bridges, roads, and other infrastructure projects. Project Engineers typically need at least a bachelor's degree. This course may be helpful in developing a foundation in the field of project engineering.
Construction Safety Manager
Construction Safety Managers develop and implement safety plans for construction projects. They may also work with contractors and workers to ensure that safety regulations are being followed. Construction Safety Managers typically need at least a bachelor's degree. This course may be helpful in developing a foundation in the field of construction safety management.
Building Inspector
Building Inspectors ensure that buildings and other structures comply with building codes and safety regulations. They may inspect buildings during construction to ensure that they are being built according to code. They may also inspect existing buildings to identify any potential safety hazards. Building Inspectors typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. This course will help prepare you for the licensing exam and for staying up-to-date with the latest construction techniques.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design and oversee the construction of infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and water treatment plants. They may also work on environmental projects, such as designing and implementing systems to clean up contaminated soil or water. Civil Engineers typically need at least a bachelor's degree. This course may be helpful in developing a foundation in the field of civil engineering.
Field Engineer
Field Engineers work on construction sites to oversee the construction process. They may work with architects, engineers, and other construction professionals to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to plan. Field Engineers typically need at least a bachelor's degree. This course will help develop a solid foundation in the field of field engineering.
Structural Engineer
Structural Engineers design and analyze the structural integrity of buildings and other structures. They may also work on the design of bridges, roads, and other infrastructure projects. Structural Engineers typically need at least a bachelor's degree. This course may be helpful in developing a foundation in the field of structural engineering.
Scheduler
Schedulers develop and maintain schedules for construction projects. They may work with architects, engineers, and other construction professionals to create a detailed schedule of the tasks that need to be completed to finish a project on time. Schedulers typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. This course will help develop a strong foundation in the field of construction scheduling.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design and oversee the construction of electrical systems, such as electrical wiring, lighting, and power distribution systems. They may also work on the design of electrical equipment, such as motors, generators, and transformers. Electrical Engineers typically need at least a bachelor's degree. This course may be helpful in developing a foundation in the field of electrical engineering.
Estimator
Estimators calculate the cost of construction projects. They may work with architects, engineers, and other construction professionals to develop a detailed estimate of the materials, labor, and equipment that will be needed to complete a project. Estimators typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. This course will help develop a strong foundation in the field of construction estimating.
Purchasing Agent
Purchasing Agents purchase the materials and equipment that are needed for construction projects. They may work with suppliers to negotiate prices and delivery schedules. Purchasing Agents typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. This course will help develop a strong foundation in the field of construction purchasing.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design and oversee the construction of mechanical systems, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. They may also work on the design of engines, turbines, and other machinery. Mechanical Engineers typically need at least a bachelor's degree. This course may be helpful in developing a foundation in the field of mechanical engineering.

Reading list

We've selected 11 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 1 of 6.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the materials used in building construction, including their properties, uses, and applications. It valuable resource for students and professionals alike.
Comprehensive guide to architectural standards and practices. It valuable resource for architects, engineers, and other professionals involved in the design and construction of buildings.
Provides detailed information on the costs of building materials and labor. It valuable resource for contractors and other professionals who need to estimate the cost of construction projects.
Provides a clear and concise explanation of the 2018 International Building Code. It valuable resource for architects, engineers, and other professionals who need to understand the code's requirements.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the science of building design. It valuable resource for architects and other professionals who want to understand the principles of building science.
Provides a collection of detailed drawings and specifications for building construction. It valuable resource for architects and other professionals who need to design and specify building components.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of building information modeling (BIM). It valuable resource for architects, engineers, and other professionals who want to learn about the benefits and applications of BIM.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of energy efficient building design. It valuable resource for architects, engineers, and other professionals who want to design and build energy efficient buildings.

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