Module Code - Title:
WT4804
-
ESTIMATING AND COSTING
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
WT4505
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
The overall aim of this module is to introduce some standard estimating and costing theories and underlying techniques that apply to building construction works. Its specific objectives are to:
• Describe the role of the estimator in the tendering process.
• Explain the process of preparing and submitting a cost estimate and tender.
• Illustrate standard estimating methods.
Syllabus:
In the construction sector, profit margins continue to be tight so there is a strong emphasis on ensuring that all costing activities are accurate and complete. To successfully deliver on the purpose as stated above and the need to ensure costings are produced in an efficient and effective manner the following topics would be indicative of what will be covered in the module:
• Organisation of the estimating function and procurement paths.
• Understanding the collaborative linkages involved in Estimating and Costing.
• Formal tender documentation, contractor selection and decision to tender.
• Project appreciation and enquiries to subcontractors and suppliers.
• Estimating methods, design to cost, tenders with cost planning, quantification for estimating.
• Tender planning and method statements, resource costs, unit rate pricing.
• Provisional sums and preliminaries, cashflow forecasts, tender submission and
results.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to... • Evaluate a tender and the criterial used in awarding a contract
• Calculate the unit rate of various plant and building elements
• Argue the need for provisional sums and preliminaries and explain what is contained within them
• Explain the role of cashflow forecasts in construction management
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to... • Identify and discuss national and international developments in estimating and costing procedures
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
• N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
This module WT804, aims to develop a skillset in costing and estimating 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, accuracy and compliance with tendering processes.
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):
Prime Texts:
Brook, M. (2017)
Estimating and Tendering for Construction Work (5th Edition)
, London and New York: Routledge
Other Relevant Texts:
Dagostino, F. and Peterson, S. (2018)
Estimating in building construction, (9th Edition)
, New Jersey: Pearson
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
BSCMENUFA - CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND ENGINEERING
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Spring
Module Leader:
mohamed.issa@ul.ie