The aim of this module is to provide students with a clear and comprehensive understanding of quality systems in the construction industry. This equips students with the skills to define quality from multiple stakeholder perspectives, implement quality assurance and quality control practices, and evaluate the effectiveness of construction quality management systems (QMS) in both organisational and project contexts. The module highlights the importance of international standards such as ISO 9001, as well as the role of leadership, planning, and supply chain integration in embedding quality across the project lifecycle. Students will examine practical tools including inspection and test plans (ITPs), checklists, and corrective action processes, while analysing case studies of both quality failures and best practice in construction projects. They will also explore emerging trends such as BIM integration, digital quality tools, and continuous improvement approaches, gaining a balance of both theoretical insight and applied skills for real-world application. At the end of the module, students will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and practical abilities to support effective quality management, enhance project outcomes, and contribute to a culture of excellence and accountability in the built environment.

This module covers the key aspects of quality management in the construction industry. It provides students with an applied understanding of how quality is defined, assured, and controlled across different stages of the project lifecycle. Students will gain an understanding of international quality standards, practical quality management tools, and the organisational and site-based practices that support compliance and continuous improvement. The mutual application of both conceptual frameworks and applied examples gives students the practical skills to support effective project delivery, client satisfaction, and sustainable outcomes. Indicative topics include: • Introduction to quality and ISO standards in construction, ISO 9001and auditing practices. • Defining quality in the built environment from the perspective of clients, contractors, consultants, and end-users. • Distinguishing between quality assurance and quality control, using practical construction site and back-office examples. • Quality management systems (QMS) in practice, including how contractors and consultants implement and maintain them. • Organisational roles and leadership commitment to quality, highlighting the importance of management buy-in and accountability. • Quality planning and pre-construction activities, including tendering, design review, and planning processes. • Site implementation of quality management through inspections, ITPs, and checklists. • Supply chain, subcontractor, and material quality management, including procurement and vendor evaluation. • Managing non-conformances, snagging, and corrective actions, with strategies for rectification and prevention. • Case studies of major construction quality failures and successful project examples. • Future trends in construction quality, including digital tools, BIM integration, and continuous improvement practices.

Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis) On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: • Analyse the principles of quality in construction projects and the requirements of international standards such as ISO 9001. • Evaluate the effectiveness of quality management systems (QMS) and their application across organisational and project contexts. • Apply quality assurance and quality control techniques, including inspections, ITPs, checklists, and corrective actions, to support compliance and continuous improvement. • Examine future trends in construction quality, including BIM integration, digital tools, and data-driven approaches, to anticipate their impact on industry practice.

Affective (Attitudes and Values) On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: • Demonstrate an appreciation for the importance of professionalism, accountability, and ethical conduct in ensuring quality outcomes. • Value the role of leadership, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement in embedding quality across the project lifecycle.

N/A

This module aims to develop students' knowledge and practical skills in understanding, implementing, and evaluating quality systems in the construction industry, with a focus on international standards, quality assurance and control practices, management frameworks, and ethical conduct. It prepares students to anticipate and address quality challenges in complex project environments, supporting compliance, continuous improvement, and successful project delivery in the built environment sector. Through the learning environment - using a focused teaching approach, resources and supports - we aim to develop expert learners and global citizens who are: • Curious - by adopting a questioning mindset and a solution-focused perspective when analysing what quality means in construction and exploring innovative management strategies. • Courageous - by recognising the importance of upholding standards and ensuring safe, sustainable, and ethical practices, even under challenging project conditions. • Responsible - in the correct interpretation and application of ISO frameworks, inspection processes, and corrective actions, and in understanding the impact of their actions on project outcomes. • Agile - by adapting to evolving industry requirements, embracing digital tools, and applying proactive approaches to embed quality across the project lifecycle. • Articulate - in expressing themselves with confidence, applying technical knowledge, communication skills, and professional judgment to support collaboration and accountability. To develop these attributes, this module will be taught using a series of in-person lectures, tutorials, and a selection of self-directed and collaborative learning activities so it is student-centred and in line with UL's Integrated Curriculum Development Framework (ICDF). Module learning materials are developed from a research-led perspective regarding content, and the principles of Universal Design for Learning are used to ensure accessibility for all students. The module Brightspace site is designed and organised in a user-friendly format to maximise functionality. To allow for the incorporation of new developments and research findings in the subject material, the flexibility of blended learning methodologies is utilised - such as Flipped Classroom in the Tutorials, online video resources, and recorded tutorials delivered through the Brightspace module site. The learning experience of students is directly affected by the design of learning materials, delivery of such materials, and assessment thereof. The principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) have been applied so that Multiple Means of Engagement, Representation, and Action & Expression are built in. Attention is also paid to the principles of Laurillard's ABC Curriculum Design process with all six learning types (Acquisition, Collaboration, Discussion, Investigation, Practice, and Production) utilised in terms of delivery, engagement, and assessment for the module. With regard to assessment - care is taken in the design of assessment vehicles used in the module so that they are challenge-driven, authentic, and constructively aligned with the Learning Outcomes for the Module. A crucial piece of the learning experience is communication between faculty and students, which is vital for the success of this module. Communication between lecturer and students, as well as peer-to-peer interactions, will be proactively managed primarily through the channels available on Brightspace, plus direct contact between faculty and students before and after lectures and via e-mail.