Building Information Modeling (BIM) as a Proxy for Project-Based Learning Integration across the Architectural Engineering Undergraduate Curriculum
The University of Texas at Austin’s Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering (CAEE) department has taken several steps towards improving the preparation of Architectural Engineering students with respect to modern engineering tools, including the computing tools commonly used in engineering practice. This is most evident in the integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) throughout the Architectural Engineering (ARE) undergraduate program curriculum, from early design (building envelope design/massing), to integrated engineering systems design (structural and mechanical integrated with architectural design), and analyses beyond design, such as scheduling and cost estimating. BIM was identified as a unifying aspect of the ARE curriculum. The introduction of BIM into the ARE program is intended to improve the preparation of students with respect to design, including computing tools commonly used in engineering design. However, the current integration of BIM in our ARE undergraduate curriculum has limited reach. Currently, six courses offer some level of BIM, ranging from a single lecture to an entire dedicated course. I would like to enhance the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM, 3D modeling applied to design, building energy analysis, and project management) across our Architectural Engineering (ARE) curriculum, adding BIM to a seventh course, but also more intentionally integrating BIM in the six courses that currently touch on the topic. In order to truly impact a paradigm shift in our industry as a whole, the integration of BIM needs to be more fundamental in nature and more evident.
Impacts from This Initiative

Integrating an Architectural Engineering Undergraduate Program with Building Information Modeling (Journal of Architectural Engineering)
PTF Fernanda Leite co-authored this article in the Journal of Architectural Engineering. The article examines the integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) into an undergraduate Architectural Engineering course, which was a core component of Leite's PTF Initiative.
Read the complete paper here, or find the abstract below.

BIM for Design Coordination: A Virtual Design and Construction Guide for Designers, General Contractors, and MEP Subcontractors
PTF Fernanda Leite authored the academic text BIM for Design Coordination: A Virtual Design and Construction Guide for Designers, General Contractors, and MEP Subcontractors. Leite's book includes a chapter specifically about teaching Building Information Modeling (BIM) in college courses titled "BIM Teaching Considerations," which is directly related to the work done in her PTF Initiative.
View the chapter here, or read the summary below.