Building Studies

    Unit code: NBS6001 | Study level: Postgraduate
    12
    (Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
    Online Real Time
    N/A
    Overview
    Enquire

    Overview

    This unit of study examines the challenges of the contemporary construction industry, its key stakeholders and the role of a building surveyor. The objectives, function statements and performance requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC) of Australia are analysed and interpreted. The performance-based approach vs the prescriptive approach is compared and critically reviewed.

    Learning Outcomes

    On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

    1. Critically analyse the fundamentals of building design and construction processes including building components and systems and services in the context of the contemporary construction industry and its challenges;
    2. Critically review real world scenarios and propose building and construction solutions relevant to sustainable urban development, design for sustainable development, the reuse of buildings and building materials, the durability of materials, and the minimisation and disposal of construction waste;
    3. Deconstruct the role and responsibilities of a building surveyor and extrapolate these to a known or unknown building construction context;
    4. Validate a good understanding of energy efficiency design principles, including the application and assessment of performance-based design solutions; and
    5. Exemplify a thorough understanding of the professional and ethical responsibilities and practices of a building surveyor/certifier.

    Assessment

    For Melbourne campuses

    Assessment type: Assignment
    |
    Grade: 20%
    Assignment 1: Fundamentals of building design and construction
    Assessment type: Case Study
    |
    Grade: 20%
    Case Study: Contemporary construction industry
    Assessment type: Assignment
    |
    Grade: 60%
    Assignment 2: Energy efficiency design principles

    Required reading

    Recommended texts and other reading and course materials will be listed in VU Collaborate.

    As part of a course

    This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

    Search for units, majors & minors