- Level Foundation
- Duration 8 hours
- Course by Columbia University
-
Offered by
About
This final course in the specialization provides an introduction on types of the construction projects as well as the main concern of the productivity challenge in the construction industry. Through case studies, you will learn the industry characteristics and its unique environment that led to such productivity performance as well as touch base on other several examples of challenges we are facing internally in the industry. In the 2nd part of the course, Professor Odeh will give an overview of 10 mega trends that are making us change the way we think about construction. Furthermore, Professor Odeh will discuss the main role of three levels on what needs to be done: an industry collaborative effort and role; a government role; and last but not least a company role. In this discussion, Professor Odeh will also touch base on several technological and innovative trends that are rising in our construction industry. By the end of this course, you will be able to: -Understand the overall history of construction industry -Analyze the optimal ways to respond to the opportunities and challenges brought by current industrial trends such as aging infrastructure, climate change, sustainability trends and tools, the rise of urbanization, and an aging/shrinking workforce -Recognize the importance of collaborating with governments and public officials in pursuit of industry transformation -Comprehend the rising technological trends in the AEC industry and give examples of how to apply technology to the construction industryModules
Course Overview
1
Videos
- Course Overview
2
Readings
- Academic Honesty Policy
- Discussion Forum Etiquette
History, Characteristics and Challenges of Construction Industry
1
Assignment
- History, Characteristics and Challenges of Construction Industry
3
Discussions
- Welcome to the course!
- Construction Industry Characteristics
- Week 1 Questions and Feedback
3
Videos
- History and Development of Construction Industry
- Common Construction Industry Characteristics
- Internal Challenges of the Industry
1
Readings
- Lecture Handout
Trends
1
Assignment
- Trends
2
Discussions
- Trends in the Construction Industry
- Week 2 Questions and Feedback
6
Videos
- Ten Examples of the Trends
- Aging in Infrastructure & Gap in Investment
- Climate Change
- Sustainability
- Urbanization
- The Workforce Shortage & Complex Regulation
1
Readings
- Lecture Handout
Transformations Needed: Industry and Government
1
Assignment
- Transformations Needed: Industry and Government Level
2
Discussions
- Recruitment in the Industry
- Week 3 Questions and Feedback
4
Videos
- Transformations Needed to Move Forward
- Industry Transformation on Marketing
- Government Transformation on Regulations and Policies
- Government Transformation on Procurement
1
Readings
- Lecture Handout
Transformations Needed: Companies
1
Assignment
- Transformations Needed: Companies
2
Discussions
- Path to Transformation
- Week 4 Questions and Feedback
4
Videos
- Companies Transformation on Strategy
- Companies Transformation on Workforce
- Companies Transformation on Process and Operation I
- Companies Transformation on Process and Operation II
1
Readings
- Lecture Handout
New and Rising Innovative Technologies
1
Assignment
- New and Rising Innovative Technologies
2
Discussions
- Technology in the Construction Industry
- Week 5 Questions and Feedback
8
Videos
- Rising Technology and Materials
- New Technologies Innovation
- Big Data, AI&ML, and 3D printing
- Drones and Robotics
- VR & AR, Digital Twin
- Digital Technologies
- Four Industrial Revolutions & Wrap up
- Global Leader in Construction Management
1
Readings
- Lecture Handout
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Auto Summary
Explore the evolving construction industry with "The Construction Industry: The Way Forward," led by Professor Odeh. This foundational course delves into project types, productivity challenges, and industry characteristics through insightful case studies. Discover 10 mega trends reshaping construction and understand the roles of industry collaboration, government, and companies. Learn to navigate technological and innovative trends for a sustainable future. Offered on Coursera, this 480-minute course is available through Starter and Professional subscriptions, ideal for business and management enthusiasts.

Ibrahim Odeh, Ph.D., MBA