CEM237-Basic Measurement Principles

Module Provider: School of Construction Management and Engineering, School of Built Environment
Number of credits: 0 [0 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: l.mbugua@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The basic principles and techniques of quantification and measurement of construction work are introduced. This includes techniques that may be carried out using computer software and/or technology. The purpose is to introduce the basics of measurement and construction technology.

This module is related to CEM238 Construction Cost Engineering. There is need for basic knowledge and skills to take the study of this topic to MSc level. Those students who may already have learned this material on an earlier qualification may be exempted from the requirement to attend this module if they can prove that they have achieved the relevant level of understanding with a recognised qualification. This exemption is subject to approval by the Programme Director.

Aims:

• To give a basic, initial skill in the fundamental techniques which underpin the techniques of quantification of construction work, that is, the mensuration, definition and quantification of items of construction work for the purposes of early-stage estimates of cost and preparation of contract documentation.

• To provide a knowledge and understanding of IT applications used for these techniques and to give practical experience in the use of the technology.

Assessable learning outcomes:

On completion of this module the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the various principles, techniques and standard methods of measurement and the practices of quantification, definition and costing of construction works


• Apply the understanding of how these are appropriately used at different stages of the construction process and in different circumstances.


• Undertake simple, practical examples of taking-off quantities of construction work items at appropriate level of detail, using traditional dim paper as well as with a computer programme.


• Know the key sources of cost information relating to the measurement and specification of building work


• Understand the production of bills of quantities and other tender documentation

Additional outcomes:

Students will be able to understand basic construction technology and how it relates to measurement of construction work; as well as know the present and potential applications of IT methods in quantification and costing of construction works.

Outline content:

This module presumes no prior knowledge of measurement and some of the material covered will include:

• the traditional approach to mensuration, taking off techniques and using the New Rules Measurement (NRM) in construction work


• estimating and the preparation of Bills of Quantities (BQ)


• Use and application of CostX or other similar computer programmes. This will involve practical sessions in the PC lab

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures will be given on key points and principles of the module subject matter. The lectures will be supplemented with hands-on tasks, exercises and discursive seminars. The techniques will be covered by the setting of individual practical tasks and exercises. The exercises will be simple material to enable the students to demonstrate an understanding of principles and application of the techniques taught.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

Reassessment arrangements:

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 10 April 2019