Architecture & Construction Fundamentals

• Describe the four primary project delivery methods (Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, CMAR, IPD) and explain the risk, cost, and schedule tradeoffs of each Understand
• Identify the key roles on a construction project — owner, architect, general contractor, construction manager, subcontractors, and specialty consultants — and explain their contractual relationships Understand
• Explain common contract structures (AIA standard documents, GMP, lump sum, cost-plus, unit price) and how they allocate risk between parties Understand
• Trace the complete project lifecycle from programming and schematic design through construction documents, bidding, construction administration, commissioning, and closeout Understand
• Recognize the major document types used in construction (drawings, specifications, submittals, RFIs, change orders, daily reports) and explain the purpose of each Remember
• Describe how building codes, permitting, and inspection processes affect project timelines and decision-making Understand
• Explain the basic principles of construction estimating — quantity takeoff, unit pricing, contingency, and the difference between conceptual and detailed estimates Understand
• Identify how AI and digital tools are transforming each phase of the project lifecycle, from generative design through AI-assisted field inspection Remember

Levels: Remember · Understand · Apply · Analyze · Evaluate · Create — highest demands most original thinking.