Enhancing building information modelling (BIM) training in Nigerian polytechnics: towards sustainable development in Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

Architectural technology practice in Nigeria is influenced on the one hand by the drive to adopt technologically advanced techniques aimed at providing solutions to the existing challenges within the built environment, and on the other hand by constantly emerging socio-economic variables associated with high population growth, urban migration and resultant housing demands. From the outset of the drawing proposal to the entire lifespan of buildings, innovative developments in building information modelling (BIM) have enabled architectural technologists attain sustainable feats in the building industry. This study examined the curriculum for BIM training in polytechnics domiciled in Southeast Nigeria and the impact on sustainable development practice within the region. Sixtythree (63) architectural firms and three (3) polytechnics were randomly selected for this study. The survey research design was adopted in this study: two sets of structured questionnaires were administered to architectural technology graduates and their employers. 130 copies of questionnaire were administered to graduates of the institutions. The study revealed that 96% of the graduates had acquired some level of BIM proficiency; 56% acquired it from school, while 40% indicated it was acquired in practice after graduation. The result of correlation analysis showed that correlation between practice performance of technologists and proficiency in BIM is significant (p<0.01). The results of regression coefficients showed that proficiency in BIM had significant correlation with practice performance of the graduates. The study showed that course contents for courses in computer application did not extensively provide opportunities for graduates to acquire relevant skills. A robust review of the curriculum is needed to produce technically efficient technologists that can tackle the demands of the built environment for sustainable development to thrive.