Integrating 3D Models in Construction Management Education: Masonry Interactive Homework

There is a need to improve construction management students spatial and visualization skills. The growing use of 3-D models, typically referred to as building information modeling (BIM) highlights the importance of this form of communication. As students learning styles change new teaching methods are needed to deliver course content in a manner that reaches the student. The use of 3-D models is one such delivery method. One construction management program previously looked at the student’s perceived impact from the use of 3-D models to increase their understanding of core course knowledge. Based on these findings the development and introduction of 3-D homework assignments is being explored in masonry construction. Models were provided by an industry partner and through off the shelf software an interactive homework assignment was developed. This paper discusses the process of that development, the software used, and the outcome opportunities available to the student and teacher. The homework assignment will be implemented in the spring of 2011 and the students will be surveyed to discover the impact, if any, of this teaching method.