Internet-based interactive construction management learning system

Abstract

The Del E. Webb School of Construction is currently involved in a three-year project aimed at enhancing the construction management education. The primary undertaking of this project-in its second year-is to incorporate practical content in the construction curricula thus bridging the gap between the classroom and the construction site. Enhancements are being accomplished by developing 1) an Internet-based Interactive Construction Management Learning System (ICMLS) and 2) an advising and mentorship program that will enhance practitioner-involvement. The Interactive Learning System uses interactive and adaptive learning environments to train students in the areas of construction methods, equipment and processes. This system is being developed using multimedia; Internet based computing; Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML); databases; and discrete-event simulation. This paper will provide an update on the design, development and implementation of ICMLS. Lessons learned and tools utilized that may be helpful in other branches of engineering and non-engineering fields will be described. The project team envisions that the successful completion of this project will lead to a number of benefits including: 1) improved recruitment, retention, and program completion for the construction management program; 2) "job-ready" graduates that can be successfully employed in the construction industry; and 3) enhanced practitioner involvement and construction industry input.