Means and Methods in Construction

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2016:

170 hours

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.

702862 Construction Methods and Planning

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

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.

• Provide the features and functions of various construction plant and temporary works;
• Provide pros and cons of various construction methods for selection purpose;
• Provide the development trends of construction method application for different purposes;
• Highlight innovation in construction methods.

• Class participation (questions, attendance, quizzes and workshops) demonstration of active involvement in a range of class activities and peer discussions throughout the teaching period (10%)

• Two assignments and class presentation equivalent to a total of 3000 words, due in week 5 and 10 (50%)

  • Assignment 1: individual equivalent to 1000 words (20%)
  • Assignment 2: group assignment (4-5 students per group) equivalent to 2000 words per each member (report 1500 words + 20 min class presentation in groups) demonstrating: a) technical knowledge in the planning of building activities and associated construction processes; b) problem solving skills; and c) ability to research, analyse and evaluate a wide range of construction technologies and management strategies (30%)

• Two hour examination equivalent to 2000 words, 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, held during the examination period (40%)

Hurdle requirement: A minimum mark of 40% has to be achieved in the examination in order to pass this subject.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

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.

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