KA7062 - Building Information Modelling Management, Theory and Practice

What will I learn on this module?

You will learn about the management, theory, and practice of Building Information Modelling (BIM), its scope and role within the construction sector and its application on construction engineering projects and their products. There is a strong emphasis on the development of BIM, the impediments of its application in practice, and the advantages gained from its use. Themes that may be covered include context and challenges of information management within construction industry business models, the origins of BIM in computer-aided design, significance of parametric modelling and interoperability, barriers to, and benefits of, BIM adoption across the range of donstruction industry sectors and actors, and reflections upon lessons learned from industry case studies.

How will I learn on this module?

This module will allow you to develop the relevant subject knowledge. You will learn through a combination of engaging, interactive methodologies and teaching approaches, including lectures, seminars, academic staff-guided independent learning, independent student learning, and by engagement in technologically-enhanced learning (TEL). A directed study of textbooks will support formally scheduled teaching, PSRB reports and scholarly journal articles (hard copy or electronic), critical evaluation of case studies, problem-based learning, simulation and reflection exercises. Additional formally scheduled teaching approaches will include video presentations, peer group discussions and presentations. The module will also use an inter-disciplinary approach to the development of the syllabus and teaching resources.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

Academic staff will provide guidance, 1-2-1 support (where possible), or use interactive asynchronous online peer support forums on the University’s virtual learning environment (VLE) to support you in your studies. Academic staff will use guided independent learning activities, e.g., directed reading. You will supplement this structured support with independent learning activities.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Deconstruct existing information management practices used by Construction Industry actors and communicate their impact upon the industry business model.
2. Critically appraise the scope and role of Building Information Modelling within the context of the Construction industry.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Critique existing Construction Industry research efforts, and approaches to problem-solving on real life BIM-enabled projects, to identify, and learn from areas to improve aspects of project delivery through the application of the management, theory or practice of BIM.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
4. Produce and present original work for academic review

How will I be assessed?

Formative Assessment
Academic staff on the module will assess you in a formative manner to help build your confidence and highlight any misunderstandings you may have of the theoretical and professional concepts presented in the module. Your formative feedback will be given to you either verbally by academic staff on the module during formally-scheduled teaching sessions or digitally using the University’s VLE. Your formative feedback aims to help you learn and prepare for the submission of your summative assessment.

Summative Assessment
Academic staff on the module will assess you in a summative manner by one piece of coursework. Academic staff on the module will use the coursework to evaluate your ability to satisfy all of the module’s learning outcomes. You will use the University’s VLE to submit your coursework. Academic staff on the module will use digital feedback tools to issue your feedback.

Pre-requisite(s)

None

Co-requisite(s)

None

Module abstract

This module focuses upon the management, theory, and practice of Building Information Modelling (BIM). Key content includes the scope and role of BIM within the construction sector and its application on construction engineering projects. There is a strong emphasis on the development of BIM, the impediments to its implementation in practice, the advantages gained from its use, and the dissemination of lessons learned from industry case studies. This learning will equip you with knowledge and skills valued by construction-related employers that will enable you to help deliver effective construction engineering projects.

Course info

Credits 20

Level of Study Postgraduate

Mode of Study 2 years Full Time (with Advanced Practice in the second year)
2 other options available

Department Architecture and Built Environment

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2025 or January 2026

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

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