The Notion of “Building Information Modeling” and its Role in the Jordanian Architecture Practice and Education: The Case of The University of Jordan

Abstract

The aim of this study is to discuss the reasons behind introducing Building Information Modeling into the Architecture domain, an in-depth investigation of its application effects on the design process in architecture pedagogy in Jordanian Architecture schools is carried out. Technology is the new spine of modern societies; architecture discipline is an interconnected sector in which computer programs have boosted, through multi-functioning capabilities. BIM (Building Information Modeling) is the new movement toward linking the Architectural Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry. Its effects on changing the conventional design process, presentation, and communication have altered the architecture profession in addition to education. Many Architecture schools adopted BIM in their curriculum, and many did not, therefore, the evaluation standards for student’s work creativity have changed drastically. The research methodology consists of analyzing the fifth-year architecture student's work (at the Architecture Department/University of Jordan) in reference to their followed design process. The outcomes varied according to the followed design process (manual/Cad/BIM) revealing a pattern in the results. The students’ work was evaluated by several accredited architects in addition to architecture educators from the university itself. The findings were also a huge indicator of the students’ preference for using BIM in their designs. However, the students who adopted the manual method managed to achieve better.