Means and Methods in Construction

Subject ABPL90334 (2015)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2015.

Credit Points: 12.5
Level: 9 (Graduate/Postgraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2015:

Semester 1, Parkville - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period 02-Mar-2015 to 31-May-2015
Assessment Period End 26-Jun-2015
Last date to Self-Enrol 13-Mar-2015
Census Date 31-Mar-2015
Last date to Withdraw without fail 08-May-2015


Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: 3 hours per week
Total Time Commitment:

170 hours

Prerequisites:

Admission into one of the following courses:

MC-CM Master of Construction Management
MC-CONMG2Y Master of Construction Management (200 points)
MC-CONMG3Y Master of Construction Management (300 points)

Or approval from the subject coordinator.

Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects:

702862 Construction Methods and Planning

Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Coordinator

Dr Paulo Vaz-Serra

Contact

Environments and Design Student Centre
Ground Floor, Baldwin Spencer (building 113)

Enquiries
Phone: 13 MELB (13 6352)
Web: http://edsc.unimelb.edu.au/
Email: edsc-enquiries@unimelb.edu.au

Subject Overview:

The subject examines the features and functions of various construction plant and temporary works employed in Australia and abroad, comparatively discussing their advantages and disadvantages to facilitate selection according to specific construction contexts. The historical development of construction methods and the factors behind their trends and innovation are also discussed. Disciplinary coverage includes advanced topics such as the use of simulation and visualisation in construction method planning.

Learning Outcomes:
  • To link construction method planning with project time and cost planning;
  • To provide the features and functions of various construction plant and temporary works;
  • To provide pros and cons of various construction methods for selection purpose;
  • To provide the development trends of construction method application for different purposes;
  • To highlight innovation in construction methods.
Assessment:
  • Class participation (10%), demonstrating active involvement in a range of class activities and peer discussions.
  • Assignment equivalent to 2000 words (30%) due in week 9, with clear demonstration of a high level of technical knowledge in design of buildings and associated construction processes, problem solving skills and ability of research, analyse and evaluate a wide range of construction technologies and management strategies.
  • Three hour examination equivalent to 3000 words during the examination period (60%) examining the features and functions of various construction plant and temporary works employed in Australia and abroad and clear understanding on the construction method planning and equipment selections in building projects. A minimum mark of 40% has to be achieved in the examination in order to pass this subject.
Prescribed Texts: None
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

On completion of the subject, students should be able to:

  • Understand the interaction among construction methods, project schedule and budget;
  • Assess the suitability of construction plant and temporary works for various construction requirements;
  • Complete preliminary risk assessment and hazard identification of construction plant and temporary works;
  • Be conversant with the terminology;
  • Understand the Occupational Health and Safety Act and to determine compliance with the construction Codes of Practice; and
  • Understand the importance of the broader social, economic and political environment in which the construction industry operates.
Notes:

Safety boots, high visibility vests and a hard hat are required for construction site visits in this subject (to be provided by the student).

Related Majors/Minors/Specialisations: Building
Building Systems and Trade Specialties
Corporate Management
Cost Management
Melbourne School of Design multidisciplinary elective subjects
Project Management

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