How Construction Technology Shapes HND in Construction Management?
The future of construction technology is set to bring remarkable advancements that will significantly transform the industry. Have you ever gazed at a bridge, building, or any structure and wondered, "How was that achieved?" The answer lies in the field of construction management.
The construction industry continues to grow in Dubai and worldwide offering huge employment opportunities. From building multi-storey houses to managing a project from scratch, a construction manager takes care of everything. The recent development in terms of sustainable construction and the role of AI in the construction environment all demand highly skilled professionals.
The HND in Construction Management programme is your pathway to get into the industry and know every detail of construction technology. The course is designed to meet the current skills demand in the construction industry. It trains students who will then be ready to lead innovative and dynamic projects.
In this blog, we will talk about what HND in Construction Management covers, its curriculum and how it helps students overcome the construction environment challenges.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Basics of construction technology and management
- Core modules of HND in Construction Management
- The growing trend in construction technology
- The top 5 emerging construction technology trends
- Importance of core modules construction management
- The road ahead in construction technology
- FAQs about development in construction technology
Basics of construction technology and management
The Higher National Diploma (HND) in Construction Management is a diploma programme for students aspiring to build a career in the construction environment. Offered by various institutions including GBS Dubai, this programme provides an understanding of critical aspects of construction management, including construction technology, sustainable methods of construction and more.
GBS Dubai has partnered with Pearson to ensure that students receive high-quality educational resources and support. Which will enhance their learning experience and prepare them for the demands of the construction industry.
This collaboration allows GBS to use Pearson's extensive expertise in delivering effective learning materials and assessments. Making sure that students are well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in their careers in construction management.
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Core modules of HND in Construction Management
Here are the core modules of this programme, which are designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers.
Year 1 modules:
The first year of the HND in Construction Management focuses on foundational knowledge. The core modules include:
| Module | Description |
| Construction Technology | This module covers the principles and practices of construction technology, including materials and methods used in building projects. |
| The Construction Environment | Students learn about the broader context of construction, including environmental factors and regulatory frameworks. |
| Legal & Statutory Responsibilities in Construction | This module focuses on legal obligations and statutory requirements that govern construction practices. |
| Digital Applications for Construction Information | Emphasises the use of digital tools and software for managing construction information effectively. |
| Tender & Procurement | Covers processes related to tendering and procurement, including contract types and risk management strategies. |
| Construction Design Project (Pearson-set) | A practical project that allows students to apply their learning in a real-world context. |
Optional units
Students may also choose from optional units such as:
- Surveying, Measuring & Setting-out
- Principles of Refurbishment
Year 2 modules:
The second year builds on the knowledge gained in the first year, introducing more advanced concepts and project management skills:
| Module | Description |
| Project Management | Focuses on planning, executing and controlling construction projects effectively |
| Advanced Construction Drawing & Detailing | Develops skills in creating detailed construction drawings using industry-standard software. |
| Construction Technology for Complex Buildings Projects | Explores advanced technologies used in large-scale construction projects. |
| Personal Professional Development | Encourages students to develop personal skills such as leadership, teamwork and communication. |
| Group Project (Pearson-set) | A collaborative project that simulates real-life construction management scenarios. |
Optional units
In addition to core modules, students can select from optional units like:
- Contracts & Management
- Sustainable Methods of Construction
- Value Engineering and Cost Control
The growing trend in construction technology
The construction industry is not lagging anymore. It is actively adapting construction technology and shifting focus on sustainable growth. This is positing the construction industry as a leader in adopting innovations.
Source: https://learn.g2.com/construction-statistics
In upcoming years people are aiming to build designs by incorporating renewable resources. Thermal energy, wind turbines and solar panels are now common in environment-friendly construction environments. These technologies aid in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependency on fossil fuels.
The top 5 emerging construction technology trends
Digital tools like virtual reality and augmented reality, together with improvements in BIM that have expanded from 3D to 8D models, have made construction technologies more affordable and available to enterprises of all sizes. Here are the top 5 construction technology trends:
- Project management software: From the beginning of the project to on-site operations and the completion stage, all phases of construction are covered by the use of construction software.
- Virtual and augmented reality: As the industry continues its rapid growth, the adoption of VR/AR is becoming increasingly significant in construction projects and is expected to grow in the coming years.
- 4D simulation: By combining time-based project scheduling with 3D modelling to produce dynamic, visual timelines, 4D simulations are transforming construction technology. Construction managers can predict challenges, optimise operations and prevent delays with the aid of this effective technology.
- Construction robotics and automation: The industry's adoption of automation and robotics is changing the way construction companies carry out intricate projects. Robots that lay bricks and 3D printers are examples of autonomous equipment that speeds up construction projects.
- Generative AI: By speeding the design process and facilitating more intelligent, data-driven decision-making, generative AI is revolutionising the construction environment.
These trends can be followed by the manager to keep the company updated with the latest construction technology. A construction manager is important for projects to be completed successfully and on time.
They ensure that projects are executed smoothly by handling contracts, keeping up with industry trends and efficiently working with various parties. If you're thinking about a career in construction management or want to progress in the industry upskilling is essential.
Importance of core modules construction management
The core modules of the HND in Construction Management are designed to provide students with an understanding of both theoretical concepts and practical applications. The modules include the study of recent developments in the construction environment like sustainability in the industry, construction technology and more.
- The focus on construction technology ensures that students are well-versed in modern building practices and materials, enabling them to contribute effectively to projects.
- Understanding the construction environment, including legal and regulatory frameworks, is important for ensuring compliance and sustainability in construction practices.
The road ahead in construction technology
A complex framework, globalisation and climate change are just a few of the many issues facing the construction environment today. Pursuing an HND in Construction Management in Dubai will give students the tools to deal with these challenges.
Along with technical, managerial, economic, social and environmental aspects of construction, you will also study the legal aspects of the field. With this, students can make their projects more efficient and effective.
Construction management core modules teach students how to solve problems creatively and work with others. Along with enhanced career prospects, students will also acquire knowledge and skills in digital competencies, sustainable construction, project planning, project management and construction technology.
Take a leading role in construction management around the globe. GBS Dubai’s programme will boost your career potential in construction technology and management.
Want to pursue a successful career in construction management? Please connect with our student support team.
FAQs about development in construction technology
A construction manager plays a very important role in making sure that projects are delivered on time without any compromise on the quality. They look after the overall budget, timely delivery, quality and ensure successful project completion.
Construction management courses provide an understanding of the construction environment and help students develop key skills. These include an understanding of project management tools, budgeting, sustainable construction, coordination and more. These skills provide a competitive edge in the market and boost your employability.
One of the latest construction technologies in the field includes the use of virtual and augmented reality in the construction environment. These tools help simplify the day-to-day tasks in the field and ease the construction project development.
The main objective of construction technology is to increase efficiency and simplify the overall process. Tools like 3D printing and robotic layout printers help in creating building components more efficiently and getting the printout on-site in real-time. These tools save time and provide efficient results.
The use of AI in construction is not limited to 1-2 tasks. It helps in project planning, providing insights and monitoring the quality of work. Moreover, AI can analyse large amounts of data from past projects to predict potential delays, identify risks, and recommend efficient solutions.
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