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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 4
Lesson 1 Introduction How a Building is Designed and Built
Interiors and Site Work Preview
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Identify Different Wall & Partition Types, Identify the Sequence to Build Interior Partitions, Describe the In-Wall Rough-In Process, Identify Different Types of Drywall and Levels of Drywall Finish
Lesson 3 Interior Partitions
Identify the Construction Sequence for Finishes, Identify the Different Options for Paint, Flooring, Ceilings and Casework, Describe Key Considerations for Proper Installation of Finishes
Lesson 4 Finishes
Identify the Specialties in a Building, Identify the Sequence of Installation for Specialties, Identify Typical Options for Furnishings
Lesson 5 Specialties and Furnishings
Identify Variables When Designing Asphalt Pavement, Describe the Construction Sequence for Curb and Gutter and Asphalt Paving, Identify Typical Hardscape and Landscaping Options
Lesson 6 Paving, Hardscape and Landscaping

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Know what's good
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Teaches learners how to identify numerous components, materials, and systems in a commercial building
Develops learners' ability to identify the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction of building systems & materials
Builds learners' ability to evaluate key constraints and select all of the appropriate major systems and materials in a building
Examines the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities
Teaches learners to identify the numerous considerations when choosing different building materials and systems
Takes a comprehensive approach to describing numerous aspects of the construction process

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Reviews summary

Thoroughly recommended beginner's course

Learners say the course is an engaging and understandable introduction to the fundamentals of building design and construction that is a good fit for beginners. The course, which is well structured and easy to follow, features knowledgeable instructors and interesting lectures delivered in a clear and informative way. Students point out that every aspect of the deck is covered in depth and appreciate the fact that Sal Jade, the instructor, shares personal experiences to illustrate key points. Students also note that the course is a good match for those interested in using the course as a template for their own classes.
Taught by an experienced educator
"knowledgeable and easy to understand"
"Sal's background as a teacher really shows"
"She makes the material engaging and easy to understand."
Concepts are presented in a straightforward manner
"Very clearly explained 👌"
"It’s very engaging so far"
"Very informative and great fit for me."
Covers all aspects of the subject
"truly educational course, Sal Jade teaches every aspect of the deck, leaving nothing out"
"Super informative AND actually taught from the heart"
"The practical demonstrations and hands-on exercises provide valuable, interactive learning."
A great starting point for those new to the subject
"Easy to understand for beginners."
"Loved the course. It was easy to learn as Iam beginner"
"Very good for beginners. simple to follow"

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 4 of 6 with these activities:
Read a book about building construction
Reading a book about building construction will help you gain a comprehensive understanding of the different aspects of building construction, from planning and design to construction and maintenance.
Show steps
  • Find a book about building construction that interests you
  • Read the book
  • Take notes and highlight important passages
Review basic building construction terminology
Understanding basic building construction terminology will help you understand the course content more easily, communicate more effectively, and understand the relationships between different components of a building.
Browse courses on Building Materials
Show steps
  • Create a glossary of terms
  • Read a book or article about building construction
  • Watch a video or take a course on building construction
Review the basics of construction sequencing
Understanding the basics of construction sequencing will help you understand the order in which different tasks are completed on a construction project, which is important for planning and scheduling.
Browse courses on Construction Sequencing
Show steps
  • Read a book or article about construction sequencing
  • Watch a video or take a course on construction sequencing
  • Create a timeline of the construction process for a specific project
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Follow tutorials to learn about specific building materials and systems
Following tutorials to learn about specific building materials and systems will help you gain a deeper understanding of how they are used in construction.
Show steps
  • Find tutorials on specific building materials and systems
  • Follow the tutorials
  • Experiment with the materials and systems yourself
Develop a vocabulary list of building materials and systems
Creating a vocabulary list of building materials and systems will help you learn and remember the different materials and systems used in construction.
Show steps
  • Create a table with columns for material name, type, and description
  • Research different building materials and systems
  • Add materials and systems to your table as you learn about them
Join a peer study group to discuss building construction topics
Joining a peer study group will help you learn from others, share your knowledge, and stay motivated.
Show steps
  • Find a peer study group
  • Attend group meetings
  • Participate in discussions
Complete practice problems on building construction
Completing practice problems on building construction will help you apply your knowledge and skills, and identify areas where you need additional support.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems online or in textbooks
  • Solve the practice problems
  • Check your answers against the provided solutions
Contribute to an open-source project related to building construction
Contributing to an open-source project related to building construction will help you apply your skills and knowledge to a real-world project.
Show steps
  • Find an open-source project related to building construction
  • Contribute to the project
  • Test your contributions

Career center

Learners who complete How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 4 of 6 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Architect
An Architect plans and designs buildings, taking into account factors such as safety, functionality, aesthetics, and environmental impact. This course aligns with this role by providing a deep understanding of the numerous components, materials, and systems used in a commercial building, enabling Architects to make informed decisions during the design process.
Construction Manager
A Construction Manager oversees the construction of a building project. This course helps build a foundation for this role by covering the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities. It also provides valuable insights into the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs and constructs infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. The course's focus on paving, hardscape, and landscaping aligns with the responsibilities of Civil Engineers who design and manage the infrastructure around buildings.
Structural Engineer
A Structural Engineer designs and analyzes the structural elements of buildings. This course is highly relevant as it provides in-depth knowledge about the various wall and partition types, their construction sequence, and the in-wall rough-in process.
Mechanical Engineer
A Mechanical Engineer designs and maintains the mechanical systems in buildings, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). The course's emphasis on various specialties and their installation sequence is relevant to this role, as Mechanical Engineers often collaborate with specialists to ensure proper installation and functionality of building systems.
Electrical Engineer
An Electrical Engineer designs and maintains the electrical systems in buildings, including lighting, power distribution, and communication systems. This course provides insights into the electrical aspects of building design and construction, which is essential knowledge for Electrical Engineers.
Interior designer
An Interior Designer plans and executes the interior spaces of buildings, ensuring functionality, aesthetics, and occupant comfort. This course offers valuable knowledge about various finishes, their installation sequence, and key considerations for proper installation, which are crucial aspects of interior design.
Project Manager
A Project Manager plans, organizes, and executes construction projects. The course's focus on the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities can benefit Project Managers in coordinating and managing various aspects of a building project.
Estimator
An Estimator calculates the cost of construction materials and labor for a building project. This course may be useful in understanding the various materials and systems used in building construction, which can aid in accurate cost estimation.
Building Inspector
A Building Inspector ensures that buildings meet building codes and safety regulations. The course's coverage of various building components, materials, and systems can provide a foundational understanding of building construction, which is essential for effective building inspection.
Facilities Manager
A Facilities Manager maintains and operates buildings and their systems. The course's focus on various building materials, systems, and their installation sequence provides valuable insights into the upkeep and management of building facilities.
Real Estate Developer
A Real Estate Developer acquires land, plans, and constructs real estate projects. While the course does not directly cover real estate development, it can provide a foundational understanding of building design and construction, which is beneficial for Real Estate Developers.
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner designs and plans the use of land and buildings in urban areas. While the course focuses on individual buildings and their construction, it can offer insights into the broader context of urban planning and how buildings contribute to the built environment.
Construction Worker
A Construction Worker performs various tasks on construction sites. The course's detailed coverage of the construction sequence and relationships between construction activities can provide foundational knowledge for individuals interested in this field.
Sustainability Consultant
A Sustainability Consultant advises on sustainable practices in building design and construction. The course's focus on various building materials, systems, and their impact on the environment can provide valuable insights for Sustainability Consultants seeking to promote environmentally conscious building practices.

Reading list

We've selected 15 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 4 of 6.
A comprehensive reference guide for architectural design and construction. Provides detailed information on materials, methods, and standards.
A visual guide to the principles and practice of building construction. Provides a comprehensive overview of the construction process, from planning and design to construction and finishing. Useful as a reference tool.
Provides detailed information on the materials and systems used in building construction. Useful for understanding the properties and applications of different materials.
Provides guidance on the preparation of construction documents. Useful for architects and other professionals involved in the design and construction of buildings.
Provides current and reliable cost data for building construction. Useful for estimating the cost of construction projects.
Provides guidance on the use of natural light in the design of buildings. Useful for architects and other professionals involved in the design of buildings that are both energy-efficient and visually appealing.
Provides guidance on the incorporation of environmental strategies into the design of buildings. Useful for architects and other professionals involved in the design of sustainable buildings.
Provides an overview of the principles and practices of sustainable architecture. Useful for understanding the environmental impact of buildings and how to design and build more sustainable buildings.
Provides an in-depth explanation of the 2018 International Building Code. Useful for understanding the legal requirements for building construction.
Provides a comprehensive overview of project management for construction projects. Useful for understanding the principles and practices of project management.
Provides an overview of the building codes and standards that are relevant to interior designers. Useful for understanding the legal requirements for interior design projects.
A monthly magazine that provides information on the latest construction products and technologies. Useful for staying up-to-date on the latest trends in building construction.
Provides an overview of the legal aspects of construction contracts. Useful for understanding the rights and obligations of contractors and owners.

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