BIM in Structural Design Education

Abstract

This paper focuses on the experiences gained in introducing Building Information Modeling (BIM) in structural design education. Using BIM as a framework for teaching structural analysis and design, BIM tools were implemented as the primary approach for advancing other types of structural engineering knowledge that centers on digital practices. The research explores BIM tools in creating structural analytical models and the use of multiple analytical models to perform various structural analysis and design education tasks. These include the application of various tools and simulation practices to prepare a BIM model for conducting structural engineering design, such as beams, frames, trusses, slabs, foundations and finite element analysis. The proposed BIM approach aims to develop deep learning about fundamental of structural analysis and design, promote collaborative thinking as a core activity, improve digital modeling and promote professional qualities to meet the demands of today's as well as tomorrow's integrated practice environments.

Developing a Modular Advanced BIM Course in Construction Management

“…Using BIM as a pedagogical tool in CM education can assist students in understanding the complexity of construction projects in both the process and product [3] [4]. In addition, many CM students are aware of BIM as the emerging technology used in the industry and have the expectations of learning the latest and most essential paradigm in a CM program [5]. As a buzzword in the AEC industry, however, BIM sometimes misleads CM students to see it as a software program or an acronym for 3D design and modeling.…”

Introducing an Advanced Building Information Modeling Course in Construction Management Programs

“…In addition, many CM students are aware of BIM as the emerging technology used in the industry and have the expectations of learning the latest and most essential paradigm in a CM program 5 . As a buzzword in the AEC industry, however, BIM sometimes misleads CM students to see it as a software program or an acronym for 3D design and modeling.…”

Incorporating Building Information Modeling in Existing Courses: A Systematic Framework for Undergraduate Construction Management Programs

“…Construction Structures is usually considered one of the most difficult core courses in CM programs since it involves a large amount of structural analysis calculations. The traditional approach to teach structural design is to focus on a linear sequence of topics such as statics, strength of materials, concrete, masonry, steel, and wood design by calculating loads, tributary area, reactions, moments, shears, et al 32,38 While mathematical computations do help students understand the design criteria of structural components, it does not emphasize the importance of overall concepts and the behaviors of structural systems. The use of BIM introduces a highly efficient and collaborative method to teach structural design and analysis.…”

“…CM students also have the expectations of being equipped with the emerging technologies used in the AEC industry. BIM is the latest and most essential paradigm that CM students are aware of and are looking forward to learning 32 . However, BIM, as a buzzword in the industry, often shifts the focus away from its benefits of sharing and simulating information and misleads students to see it as a software program or an acronym for 3D design and modeling 15,16 .…”

“…The use of BIM introduces a highly efficient and collaborative method to teach structural design and analysis. The BIM platform allows students to divide the structural system into separate portions and analyze the behaviors of individual structural components 32 . Revit structural analytical model is a built-in feature that provides a simplified 3D presentation of the structural elements, as demonstrated in Figure 4.…”