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Understanding the Built Environment (ABPL10005)

Undergraduate level 1Points: 12.5Dual-Delivery (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability
Semester 1 - Dual-Delivery
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This subject provides a broad introduction to the processes and skills associated with the construction of buildings and introduces some of the techniques used in managing the construction process. The characteristics and nature of the construction industry are presented as well as an overview of the historical evolution of the built environment. The various roles and responsibilities in the construction industry are reviewed in the context of the building development process. Other critical aspects of the building development process are also presented, including the materials and equipment used in contemporary building projects, regulations, contracts, procurement methods, occupational health and safety, quality and project management. Emphasis is placed on the importance of organisation, problem solving, teamwork and communication in the construction industry, reinforced by the collaborative approach to subject activities and assessment. Emerging industry trends are explored, including environmental sustainability, technological innovation and the use of information technology. Construction site visits and industry professionals provide a real-world demonstration of the theories and principles covered.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject students should be able to:



  • Understand the role of the construction industry in the economy and the key characteristics of the industry;
  • Appreciate the historical and cultural developments underlying the history of the built environment;
  • Appreciate the role of building professionals and be aware of their responsibilities during the building development process;
  • Understand the general principles and underpinnings of building contracts;
  • Broadly recognise building materials, equipment and methods;
  • Understand the basic theories of management and project management;
  • Appreciate the importance and challenges of quality and occupational health and safety in the construction industry;
  • Develop an awareness of current building industry trends.

Generic skills

Upon successful completion of this subject students will have had the opportunity to develop the following generic skills:

  • analytical skills;
  • communication skills;
  • problem solving skills;
  • team working skills.

Last updated: 3 October 2023

Eligibility and requirements

Prerequisites

None

Corequisites

None

Non-allowed subjects

ABPL20041 The Construction Context

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.

Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home

Last updated: 3 October 2023

Assessment

DescriptionTimingPercentage

In-class quizzes held in Week 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 to demonstrate an understanding of the construction industry

  • 400 words (equivalent)
From Week 2 to Week 1010%

Site and Team Member Details Summary (as a group), listing group members and summarising details of selected bulding projects to be observed

Hurdle requirement: Completion of this assessment task is a Hurdle Requirement		Week 3N/A

Draft Site Observation Report (as a group), describing the observation of building projects in order to demonstrate an understanding of the people, roles, materials, equipment, processes and issues involved in the construction of buildings

Hurdle requirement: Completion of this assessment task is a Hurdle Requirement		Week 5N/A

Final Site Observation Report (as a group), describing the observation of building projects in order to demonstrate an understanding of the people, roles, materials, equipment, processes and issues involved in the construction of buildings

  • 2000 words
Week 1250%

An examination to demonstrate an understanding of the activities and roles associated with the construction of buildings

  • 2 hours
Hurdle requirement: A minimum mark of 40% has to be achieved in the examination in order to pass this subject.		40%
Hurdle requirement: A minimum 75% attendance at all class sessions, including tutorials and lectures, is required in order to pass this subject.N/A

Last updated: 3 October 2023

Dates & times

  • Semester 1
    Principal coordinatorRobert Crawford
    Mode of deliveryDual-Delivery (Parkville)
    Contact hours2 X 1 hour lectures and 90 minutes tutorial per week
    Total time commitment170 hours
    Teaching period 1 March 2021 to 30 May 2021
    Last self-enrol date12 March 2021
    Census date31 March 2021
    Last date to withdraw without fail 7 May 2021
    Assessment period ends25 June 2021

    Semester 1 contact information

    Email: rhcr@unimelb.edu.au

Time commitment details

170 hours

Last updated: 3 October 2023

Further information

Last updated: 3 October 2023