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Module Code - Title:

WT4604 - LAND SURVEYING

Year Last Offered:

2025/6

Hours Per Week:

Lecture

0

Lab

3

Tutorial

0

Other

2

Private

5

Credits

6

Grading Type:

N

Prerequisite Modules:

Rationale and Purpose of the Module:

The construction industry requires precision accuracy when beginning the setup of any construction project, from domestic low-rise to high-rise industrial projects. Graduates from the Construction Management with Engineering course (LM082) will develop their understanding of the different surveying techniques and practices in this module. Graduates can then apply this knowledge, utilising it within the industry, enhancing the quality of construction taking place throughout the sector globally. This is the only module in the Construction Management and Engineering programme that is designed to describe, illustrate, and undertake the surveying practices utilised in the construction sector.

Syllabus:

Land surveying in the construction sector has developed considerably over the past number of decades with huge technological improvements. The module delves into the purpose and use of land surveying globally, examining old reliable techniques while additionally, looking at more advanced systems being used on large projects. The syllabus begins with identifying the surveying fundamentals and continues onto lab work. The indicative content is outlined below:                                                    • Introduction to surveying fundamentals. • Explanation of tape and offset surveying and levelling. • Identification of theodolites, its systems and use in surveying. • Introduction to topographic surveying. • Geographic Information Systems - what they are and how they can be used on a project. • Introduction to setting out, areas & volume, angle measurement and curve ranging. • Global Positioning Systems - what they are and how they can be used on a project. • Field operations. • Practical case studies.

Learning Outcomes:

Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to...                                                                                                                                                     • Evaluate the role of surveying and setting out in construction projects. • Apply the knowledge to plan and carry out a survey of a small site utilising chain surveying techniques. • Prepare a plan and undertake a topographic survey of a site using a total station and RTK GPS (Real Time Kinematic Global Positioning System). • Explain the role of setting out for buildings, roads, sewers and drain systems utilising total stations, GPS, and Optical/laser levels. • Evaluate the purpose of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and understand how to be able to set up a GIS database using the relevant software.

Affective (Attitudes and Values)

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to...                                                                                                                                                     • Develop a mindset to ensure quality so as to avoid the impact of poor construction practice focusing on the importance of accurate surveying and setting out for construction projects.

Psychomotor (Physical Skills)

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to...                                                                                                                                                     • Apply the knowledge to operate surveying equipment such as: levels, theodolites, total stations, GPS etc.

How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:

This module WT4604, aims to develop a skillset in surveying necessary for our graduates to take their place working in and influencing the construction sector, capable of managing construction projects with a strong emphasis on ethics, responsibility and accuracy. Through the learning environment - using a focused teaching approach, resources and supports, we aim to develop expert learners and global citizens who are: Curious - through having a questioning mindset and a solution focused perspective. Courageous - understanding the importance of standing up for what is right and ethical. Responsible - for the correct usage of resources and their own impact on the world. Agile - utilising proactivity to adapt to and drive change in their community and career supported by a continuous learning approach. Articulate - in that they can express themselves with a confidence grounded in sound learning. 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, on-line 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 6 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 Objectives for the Module. A crucial piece of the learning experience is communication between faculty and students, as well as peer-to peer interactions. These 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.                                                                                                                                                             Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):                                                                                                                                                       Module content is continuously informed by both academic and industry research on the subject matter, pertinent to the discipline of Construction Management. 

Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):

Prime Texts:

McCormac, J.C., Sarasua, W.A. and Davis, W.J., (2012) Surveying 6th Edition , John Wiley and Sons.

Other Relevant Texts:

Irvine, W. and MacLennan, F. (2012) Surveying For Construction, 5th Edition , McGraw-Hill Higher Education

Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:

BSCMENUFA - CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND ENGINEERING

Semester(s) Module is Offered:

Spring

Module Leader:

Tadhg.ONeill@ul.ie