Revitalizing Quantity Surveying Education: Exploring BIM Mastery with Revit Tools among Students

Abstract

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is acknowledged as an information technology innovation that facilitates integrated and collaborative work environments in construction projects worldwide.  The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector has widely embraced the use of BIM to enhance project efficiency and productivity.  Thus, there is an increasing demand for professionals proficient in BIM, emphasizing the significance of BIM education at the higher education level.  This study aims to assess the students' understanding, awareness, and perspectives regarding BIM competency and their preparedness to utilize BIM software, especially for future employment. This study examines students enrolled in the Computer Aided Design and Drawing (BQS516) course, a prerequisite for Semester 3 of the Quantity Surveying degree at the Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA Shah Alam. BQS516 is an introductory, elective course that familiarizes students with BIM concepts through the use of Revit software.  A total of 203 newly enrolled students participated in the study through a quantitative survey, with data analyzed using SPSS tools.  Survey findings indicated that the majority of the students have minimal to no prior knowledge of BIM and Revit.  Nonetheless, most have shown great motivation and enthusiasm for learning the subject matter.  The outcomes revealed a unanimous consensus among students that acquiring proficiency in Revit software will augment their digital competencies and facilitate their professional advancement in the construction sector.  This study highlights the importance of early BIM exposure in developing the competencies of future Quantity Surveyors.