Complex Construction

Unit code: NBC3204 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Online Real Time
Prerequisites
N/A
Overview
Enquire

Overview

In this unit, the advanced procedures, principles, and methods used in the construction of complex projects, including tall buildings exceeding 300 meters in height, will be explored. These structures fall within Building Classes 2 to 9 as designated by the National Construction Code (NCC). This unit is designed to address the unique challenges and sophisticated techniques required for high-rise construction, emphasising a deep understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of building at such scale.

The curriculum is structured to provide students with comprehensive insights into the complexities of constructing skyscrapers and similar structures. It covers a range of critical topics from the initial planning and design phases through to construction and post-construction evaluations. Special focus is given to the selection and management of temporary works such as scaffolding, formwork, and falsework, which are pivotal in supporting complex constructions.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Critically review the temporary works, particularly scaffolding, formwork and falsework and plant selection processes used for complex or high-rise construction;
  2. Justify the use of foundation systems, major excavation, stabilisation and dewatering techniques in the construction of basement levels of tall buildings;
  3. Diagnose and plan the rectification of common non-compliance and building faults and verify the regulatory inspections made for quality assurance when constructing a complex or high-rise building project;
  4. Assess and report on the issues encountered by complex or high-rise buildings including funding, ownership, design, construction and social and environmental sustainability issues; and
  5. Advocate for the development and implementation of innovative high-rise building practices.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 30%
Individual assignment on Non-compliance and building faults in High-Rise Construction – Preliminary Report (10%) and Final Assignment (20%)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 20%
Test on Construction Principles and Techniques
Assessment type: Case Study
|
Grade: 40%
Team project - High-Rise Building Analysis
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 10%
Team oral presentation - High-Rise Building Analysis

Case Study and Presentation include the evaluation of the contribution of each team member to the project to facilitate the assessment of students' achievement of learning outcomes.

Required reading

Building Code of Australia Class 2 to Class 9 Buildings
National Construction Code Series (latest ed) | ABCB Publications, Canberra
Energy efficiency provisions
National Construction Code (latest ed)| ABCB Publications, Canberra

As part of a course

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

Bachelor of Architectural Design
NBAD | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years
Bachelor of Building Surveying
NBBS | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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