3 credits
Spring 2025 Lecture Upper DivisionThis course introduces the concepts of critical thinking and why acting in our 'comfort zone' can result in discomfort. Students will explore a number of simulated and actual problems that challenge understanding of the situation and require additional investigation or analysis. Problems will cover the entire building life-cycle from development of a project plan, through design, project risk analysis for bidding, controlling the project, project recovery, and project handover. Guest speakers will present examples of projects where critical thinking was applied to resolve project issues or avoid a significant error.
Learning Outcomes1Understand the complex nature of construction through the schematic nature of design and the physical realities of construction sequences and processes.
2Explore different approaches to accomplishing the same goal.
3Learn from several case studies where solutions may appear obvious but where the better solution is less obvious. Professional writing and presentation skills are required.
4Evaluate a specific construction case in depth and report on their findings and recommended approach.