Assessment of webcam technology on teaching and learning in construction management education

Abstract

A significant portion of the curriculum in construction management requires an understanding and appreciation for application of techniques in management and technology that are impacted by the conditions of the construction jobsite. When possible, field trips are arranged so students are able to observe the conditions and communications typical to jobsite activities. Unfortunately, field trips present numerous challenges. Even when they are available, the logistics of transportation and timing create problems. Jobsites may not be accessible to large numbers of students, or may present dangerous conditions for observation. As an alternative, it has been suggested that webcam technology could be utilized as a means to provide jobsite observation without many of the drawbacks experienced with field trips. The purpose of this study was to investigate available webcam hardware and software to identify cost-effective and functional systems for the university setting; to implement the use of this technology in construction management classes in the Department of Building Construction Management at Purdue University; and to survey students, professors, and field personnel who experienced the jobsite to classroom webcam educational activities. The wireless webcam equipment selection process, equipment description, and operating procedures that resulted from the study are detailed from both a technical standpoint as well from the perspective of educators who wish to utilize webcam technology to promote teaching and learning through jobsite contact. The students, faculty, and field personnel who participated in the webcam field trips implemented in this study perceived the use of webcam technology to be as good as or better than conventional field trips. Complexity of use was found to be a potential stumbling block to large-scale wireless webcam field trip implementation. In the study, planning helped alleviate much of the challenge presented by complexity and aided in making the connection between what was demonstrated in the field trips and the course objectives. Wireless webcam construction management field trip best practices, equipment operation and setup procedures, and a field trip lesson plan guide to assist in future webcam field trip planning, along with suggestions for future implementations and research, were developed by the researcher