AI and Digital Technologies in the Built Environment

About

This innovative course will introduce you to the latest digital and AI technologies shaping the future of the built environment.

Over ten intensive days, you will explore how Generative AI, BIM, VR, and sustainability tools are reshaping project design and construction. Through hands-on workshops, group challenges, and industry-focused discussions, you will gain practical skills and insights into smart, sustainable, and technology-enabled construction practices.

The course blends practical workshops, global teamwork, and creative activities such as podcasting and digital identity development.

Content
• AI Image Generation for the Built Environment: Discover how to use Generative AI tools to create realistic visuals. Learn effective prompting techniques and workflows to produce concept images that support design and communication.

• Responsible Use of Generative AI in the Built Environment: Explore the opportunities and ethical challenges of using AI in the built environment. Learn responsible prompting techniques, understand risks, and discuss how professionals can use AI safely and transparently.

• AI-Powered Project Risk Assessment: Use Generative AI to identify, analyse, and document construction project risks. Learn how to build an AI-assisted risk register that supports smarter decision-making and project planning.

• Laser Scanning and 360° Imaging: Gain hands-on experience with digital surveying tools, including laser scanners and 360° cameras. Learn how these technologies capture accurate site data and create detailed 3D models.

• Virtual Teams and Digital Collaboration Using Miro: Experience how global teams work together in virtual environments. Use Miro boards to plan, share ideas, and visualise workflows for effective collaboration across time zones and disciplines.

• Generative AI for Creating Value – The VSM Method: Discover how AI can support Value Stream Mapping (VSM). Learn to analyse processes, identify waste, and generate value through data-driven decision support.

• Energy Efficiency in Practice: Work in a lab environment to measure energy performance using solar panels and thermal cameras. Explore how digital tools can help design more energy-efficient buildings.

• Technologies for Sustainable Construction: Engage with emerging sustainability tools, from the Spot robot for data collection to U-value and air infiltration testing. Understand how smart tech drives sustainable construction practices.

• Virtual Reality (VR) in Construction Design and Collaboration: Enter virtual construction environments. Experience how VR enhances collaboration, design communication, and decision-making across project teams.

• Professional Digital Identity, AI, and Employability: Build your professional digital identity and enhance your employability. Take part in simulated AI interviews and learn how to present your digital portfolio effectively.

• BIM and 4D Planning: Learn how Building Information Modelling (BIM) and 4D planning integrate time with design. Create your own 4D animation to visualise project sequencing and improve planning accuracy.

• Immersive Environments and the Igloo CAVE Experience: Step inside NTU’s Igloo CAVE to explore immersive technology in action. Learn how to control, use, and adapt this environment for collaboration, design review, and digital storytelling.

• Podcasting: A Modern Communication Tool: Develop your communication skills through podcasting. Learn how to plan, script, record, and edit professional audio content to share ideas, reflections, and project outcomes

Course leader

Ehsan Asnaashari - Senior Lecturer in Construction Management

Target group

This course is ideal for students from disciplines related to the built environment, including but not limited to Civil Engineering, Architecture, Product Design, Property Management, Quantity Surveying, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, Building Surveying, and Project Management. No prior background is required

Course aim

The course blends practical workshops, global teamwork, and creative activities such as podcasting and digital identity development. By the end of the programme, you will understand how to use AI responsibly, apply digital workflows effectively, and enhance their employability in an increasingly smart and connected construction world.

After studying this course, you should be able to:
1. Demonstrate understanding of how Generative Artificial Intelligence, digital tools, and immersive technologies are transforming the design and construction of the built environment.
2. Evaluate how digital innovation supports responsible, efficient, and sustainable construction practices.
3. Apply AI and digital technologies to analyse, plan, and communicate construction information effectively.
4. Integrate AI and digital collaboration tools to co-create innovative project solutions and communicate outcomes through immersive and media-based formats

Fee info