What will I learn on this module?
In this module you will learn the fundamentals of construction technology, exploring current and emerging technologies. This will incorporate aspects of digital design/ management and planning. The syllabus includes the processes and technology of commercial and domestic construction, both current and of the recent past to equip graduates with the knowledge to manage the construction, maintenance and development of property assets. The importance of the environmental impact of materials and the use of life cycle costing to enhance sustainability will supplement the teaching of low carbon construction technology and energy sources.
Within each of these areas you will study a range of topics to support this:
• Architecture & Construction technology
o Concepts
o Design Theory & Principals
o Architectural History
o Future technologies
o The structural elements, finishes and services found in typical low rise domestic construction
o The structural elements, finishes and services found in commercial and industrial property
• Digital technologies
o BIM concepts
o BIM Objects
o Revit & Auto CAD
o Augmented and Virtual Reality
• Low carbon design
o Site selection and building orientation
o Passive low carbon design in the domestic and commercial field
o Water conservation
o Green roof and wall applications
• Renewable energy applications
o Photovoltaic applications
o Biomass heating
o Ground and air source heat pumps
o Solar water heating
o Wind energy
On completion of this module the knowledge and understanding acquired forms part of the broader contextual framework for the study of your academic programme.
You will develop, throughout this module, academic and professional skills relating to the use and evaluation of data; effective communication; self-direction and personal responsibility.
How will I learn on this module?
This module will major on experiential learning, in addition to lectures and seminars there will be workshops and site visits to allow you to experience first-hand the design and construction issues covered in the lecture and seminar programme.
You will be supported in your learning by formative assessment and feedback to help you assimilate the taught materials. The built environment is characterised by a range on online resources such as specifications, guidance notes and videos from government, professional bodies and manufacturers. These technological resources will be exploited to provide a rich learning experience.
The learning of software applications such as Revit will be supported through classroom/ IT room instruction and guidance, assisting you in their function and operation.
Teaching will be informed by research from a range of authoritative sources, include staff research, to help you evaluate the range of alternatives available. It is anticipated that you will be able to visit and evaluate for yourself a variety of properties that have used innovative solutions to understanding the development of the built environment and shaping its future.
The assessment of the module will comprise two exercises, to allow you to demonstrate your command of the technological and design issues covered in the syllabus.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be an autonomous, self-motivated learner within a supportive environment. The teaching in the form of lectures, seminars and workshops form the foundation for supporting you during your study. Academic support is available from the teaching team through our ‘open door’ policy, which allows you to question directly your tutors. Focused academic support coupled with timely formative and summative feedback should enable you to meet your full academic potential within this module.
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:
• MLO1: Critically examine recent and current construction technologies across domestic and commercial international applications.
• MLO2: Critically evaluate passive low carbon design techniques and their application in current construction to meet the international regulatory environments and the aspirations of the market.
• MLO3: Critically evaluate renewable energy applications in respect of their carbon reduction effectiveness, practical application and long-term viability. Consider the implication for security of energy supply in a localised renewable supply regime.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• MLO4: Critically analyse information, make recommendations, demonstrate judgement and communicate findings.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• MLO5: Demonstrate the capacity for independent, evidence based thinking and decision-making.
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment: tasks embedded within the module sessions provide formative feedback immediately upon completion. This timely feedback will assist in consolidating your learning as you move through the module.
Summative assessment: this module is assessed by one piece of coursework and is designed to be applicable globally rather than for UK based students.
Coursework: Contextual analysis of built environment area/ asset, application of key learning through specification and application of current technologies in Construction Portfolio format, tests, ML01, MLO2, MLO3, MLO 4 and MLO5. Equal to 100% of module assessment.
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
In this module you will learn the fundamentals of building construction, design and technologies. You will explore current thinking and approaches related to the built environment. Examining the use of state-of-the-art software and concepts such as BIM, along with low carbon construction technology. Knowledge and skills which have become internationally significant in terms of understanding and application. Set within the context of mitigating climate change and using the built environment more efficiently. The syllabus includes the processes and technology of commercial and domestic construction, both current and of the recent past to equip you with the knowledge to manage the construction, maintenance and development of property assets. With a focus on technology, communication and application logistical management constraints are reduced. You will acquire the skills and knowledge to prepare you for a career in property and be able to make an immediate contribution to the work of a contemporary professional office as a placement student or gradate surveyor.
Course info
Credits 20
Level of Study Postgraduate
Mode of Study 2 years Full Time (with Advanced Practice in the second year)
1 other options available
Department Architecture and Built Environment
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025 or January 2026
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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