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.