Whenever you want to learn a new skill, the best way to do so is to enroll in a course that covers that skill. Learning BIM is no different. You have several training methods to choose from to learn BIM skills. Of course, when you think of training, most people will think of the traditional in-person training classes. The courses provide students with full interaction within a structured environment. However, over recent years online training has grown in popularity as it has made training more accessible. When looking for BIM training, most students prefer to live online or self-paced training as each offers unique advantages over other types of training. Live online training provides students with a similar atmosphere as in-person training, where students will attend the course at a given time and learn directly from their instructor. However, students will meet in a virtual classroom which allows them to attend class anywhere that has an internet connection. Self-paced training gives students more flexibility with their learning while still providing some interaction with their instructor. With a self-paced course, students will work through the material at a pace that works best for them. They do not have a designated class time but rather fit the training into their schedule. If questions or issues arise, students can interact with the instructor through office hours or online discussion boards. However, there are still other online training methods that might work better for different types of students.
On-demand courses provide a similar learning experience to self-paced courses. However, students will work through the material completely on their own. They will not be able to contact the instructor. If any questions arise, they will need to find the answer on their own. Students who want to learn the basics of BIM can also use free resources. These resources provide students with a budget-friendly way to explore BIM without any commitment. They can learn the fundamentals in their own time and how they feel comfortable. Free resources can take many shapes, including videos, online forums, free seminars, websites, and free trials with BIM software. Throughout this article, you will explore each of these training methods to help you determine which training method fits your learning goals and style.
What is BIM?
What Factors Impact How Long It Takes to Learn BIM?
The time it takes to learn BIM can vary greatly from one individual to another. As discussed above, several factors can influence how long it will take to fully learn the various skills and concepts associated with BIM. The training method one chooses can prepare someone for a new career in a few months or have them learn different skills over the course of several years. Some individuals may have prior knowledge of AEC-related skills and may find learning BIM easier. Every person has a different reason for learning BIM; those reasons can change how much time they spend learning the skill. Understanding these various aspects can help you set realistic expectations and help you make the best decisions for your learning needs.
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Training Method
When you look up how to learn BIM skills, you will encounter several different training methods to help you learn the skills you want. However, different training methods take significantly longer to master skills than others. Free resources, for example, seem great on the surface. They present a budget-friendly option for training. Yet, if you only use free resources, you can spend many years trying to master BIM. Without a clear structure, you may spend months jumping around between different skills like Revit and blueprint reading. This can create fractured learning. If you set up a learning path, you may be able to cut down the time it takes to learn BIM with free resources. However, you may want to consider them as an introduction to the skills before jumping into structured learning, as structured courses can greatly decrease the time it takes you to learn any skill.
On-demand courses provide similar flexibility to that found with free resources, as students can complete the training when they have time, yet they will follow pre-recorded modules throughout the course. These courses are another budget and beginner-friendly learning option, as they often contain several hours of material for students to work through. Bootcamps and certificate courses can seem time-consuming at first, as they require a large time commitment upfront. Yet, after a few weeks or months of intensive training, you have the skill set that is ready for the career that you want. When deciding how you want to learn BIM, it is important to consider how long you want to spend learning the skill. If you are eager to jump into a new career, you may consider the larger initial time investment over a cheaper yet longer learning process.
Software Complexity
Learning BIM includes learning several different BIM programs. Each BIM platform presents students with a range of tools that can make it more challenging to learn. As you learn BIM, you will encounter software like Revit, ArchiCAD, and Navisworks, all of which are industry-standard tools. If you have not worked with this type of software before, you will need to spend time acquainting yourself with the interface. While this is a necessary step, and you can't skip it, it does increase the time it takes to learn the programs. As you become more comfortable with each program, the easier it will be to learn how to utilize it to create your desired outcomes. As you start to create models within these programs, you will need to become familiar with parametric modeling and data management. Some students struggle with these ideas when they are first starting out. With the right training and practice, students can easily adapt to the software's complexity and build expertise over a short period of time.
What Other Factors Should I Consider When Learning BIM
Knowing how long it should take to learn BIM skills is important, especially if you want to start a new career. This can give you an idea of when to start applying for positions. However, you should consider other factors that will also impact your learning, thus impacting the time it takes you to learn the skill, like difficulty and the cost of training.
As with learning any skill, students will encounter various challenges throughout the learning process. In the world of AEC skills, BIM is considered one of the more difficult skills to learn simply because of the initial learning curve with the different software used. Once students overcome that initial hurdle, it does become easier to learn, even with the various challenges they may encounter. Learning the software will take time and effort, especially if you haven't worked in architecture or construction before. However, if you set up a regular practice schedule and stick to it, you can minimize any difficulties that may arise throughout the learning process. The best way to help eliminate any challenges is to enroll in a BIM course that provides a structured environment that will dive into each software. Yet, these training courses do cost money, and they can be costly.
Different training methods will have different costs, which makes choosing the right training method slightly more difficult. On-demand courses are by far the cheapest option one can choose. However, they are often introductory courses, and they do not provide students with any interaction with the instructor. This can present challenges to students if they encounter any topics they don't fully understand. Individual classes that cover one topic at a time can be beneficial for students who cannot commit to a bootcamp or certificate course. Yet, learning one skill at a time can become costly as you will need to learn several skills to become proficient in BIM. The best bang for your buck is bootcamps and certificate courses. While the initial price tag is high, with some being several thousand dollars, they dive into all aspects of BIM to prepare students for a new career or promotion. Enrolling in these courses can also lead to high-paying job opportunities, as earning a certificate can put you above other candidates in the job market. When you are deciding which way to take your training, it is important to decide how you want to learn and how much you are willing to spend. You may have to adjust your expectations on the amount of time it will take you to learn BIM.
Why Learn BIM?
If you want to enter into the architecture, engineering, or construction (AEC) industries, you have several skills you can focus your attention on. However, one skill set brings all the other skills together, making it one you should focus your energy on learning. Learning BIM can open the door to several exciting AEC opportunities, as it is an innovative technology within these industries. As industries shift toward more efficient and data-driven workflows, companies will seek professionals with BIM expertise, giving you a leg up over the competition. Mastering this technology helps architects make precise designs. It allows engineers to spot structural problems early. Also, it helps contractors improve project timelines and budgets. BIM fosters better team collaboration by structuring a collaborative approach to building design.
While there are countless reasons to add BIM to your AEC toolbelt, BIM applications extend beyond professional use in large-scale construction projects. Urban Planners utilize BIM to design smart cities that prioritize sustainability and efficiency. Governments and Real Estate Developers use it to assess environmental impact and improve infrastructure planning. While it is most often used in a professional setting, homeowners can utilize it to plan renovations. BIM software can easily allow homeowners to visualize the changes they want to make before they make it. They can even use it to plan other structures on their property. Whether shaping city skylines or planning a small renovation, BIM provides powerful solutions for turning ideas into reality.
How Can I Learn BIM?
As with any skill, when it comes to learning BIM, there are several different ways to approach your learning. Each method has benefits based on your learning style, schedule, and career goals.
- Live Online Training: Students who enroll in these classes receive a traditional classroom experience without the need to commute to a training facility. Live online classes maintain the level of interaction that in-person classes have while allowing students to participate in class from anywhere with an internet connection. Both of these training methods include hands-on training with various projects.
- Self-Paced Training: Students who want more flexibility with their training can enroll in self-paced training courses. These courses allow students to work on the material as it fits into their schedule. There is no designated class time; students only have to complete all of the material by the time the course ends. They will typically have several months to complete all the work. Self-paced programs provide students with a structured learning environment while giving them control over how and when they learn. Students will also still have the ability to interact with their instructors or peers through online forums and voice/video chat rooms. Self-paced programs offer a unique balance between structure, flexibility, and interaction.
- On-Demand Training: Similar to self-paced training classes, on-demand training classes allow students to work through the material when and how it best fits into their schedule. All of the material is pre-recorded. Students will receive access to the entire course when they enroll. However, on-demand training does require a lot of self-discipline. The main point that separates on-demand training from self-paced training is that there is no interaction with peers or instructors. Students will work through the material completely on their own. If they have questions, they will need to find the answer on their own. Students must stay motivated to finish lessons and practice exercises. This method works well for people who can independently handle software tutorials and solve problems.
Each learning method can be effective, depending on individual needs and goals. Live online training works best for those who thrive in interactive environments; self-paced courses balance flexibility and support, and on-demand learning provides total freedom for independent students. Mastering BIM can lead to many career opportunities in the AEC industry. No matter which format you choose, you can find a training format that will allow you to reach your learning goals.
Level of Difficulty, Prerequisites and Cost to Learn BIM
Before jumping into training, you might wonder how difficult BIM is to learn, what you need to know before you start learning BIM, and how much it will cost you to learn BIM. All of these are important factors one should consider before learning any skills. When it comes to learning BIM, experts agree that BIM is one of the harder skills to learn in the AEC industries, simply because it involves multiple other skill sets. However, the difficulty level can be subjective. Your prior experience and knowledge of design and construction ideas can make a difference in the difficulty level of BIM. If you have a background in architecture, engineering, or construction, switching to BIM software like Revit or Navisworks might be easier. Beginners might need more time to understand basic modeling techniques and industry standards. BIM software can be complex. However, structured training programs make learning easier. They break the process into simple steps. This helps students gain confidence as they advance. With consistent practice and hands-on application, mastering BIM becomes more achievable. Enrolling in a structured course is an investment, and depending on the course you enroll in, the price can vary greatly.
With so many different ways to learn BIM, the cost of the different training methods and training providers varies. Students can find budget-friendly learning options like free resources or on-demand classes. These options don't always give the most in-depth training into BIM as one would need to enter into a career. Self-paced courses are the next step up. They provide the flexibility and structure of on-demand courses while giving students access to their instructor. This interaction can give students valuable industry knowledge and help them overcome any potential challenges. Next are live online and in-person classes. These will cost slightly more because they provide students with a traditional classroom experience and need to cover the cost of the instructor. Of course, there are also different types of training within each of these methods. Individual skill workshops cover only one skill and typically last about a day. These courses are on the cheaper side. Bootcamp and certificate courses provide students with the skills to advance their current position or jump into a new career. They last a few weeks to several months, causing them to have a hefty price tag. However, because they prepare you for a new career, many students choose to see them as a significant investment in their career. When looking through the various BIM programs available, it is important to make note of any skills you will need before you enroll in them.
Before jumping head first into learning BIM, you want to consider any skills that will make the learning process easier. While BIM technically has no required prerequisites, many experts agree that having a grasp of architectural and engineering concepts and understanding construction principles can make the learning process easier. BIM models incorporate real-world design features and structural ideas, so understanding the basic ideas behind the models can make learning the basics easier. You will already have an understanding of the industry terms. Knowing drafting software like AutoCAD can be helpful as well, while it is not required. Building these foundational skills with BIM training helps students succeed in the field.
Advantages of Learning in a Self-Paced Environment?
What makes learning in a self-paced environment so special? Self-paced programs offer students many advantages that they would not receive with any other type of training method. Most students who enroll in self-paced training courses do so to take advantage of the flexibility and control over their learning. Students gain access to the material when they enroll in the course and can fit their training into the schedule that works best for them. This can look like logging on during a lunch break, after work, in between errands, or in any short window of time that is not occupied with another commitment. They can also access and revisit the material as often as they need to. If there is a section that a student struggles with, they can spend more time working through the coursework and rewatching the material until it becomes clear to them. If it doesn't, students can seek guidance through their instructor. Most self-paced providers offer students a discussion board or virtual lounge where they can interact with their instructor, or they can use office hours to discuss any difficulties that they may encounter. Even though students gain control over their learning with self-paced courses, they may still encounter some challenges that some students see as drawbacks to the training method.
Since students have control over their learning, it does require them to have the discipline and motivation to get the work done. This can be a challenge for some students, especially if they have several other priorities. Self-paced learning does not have strict deadlines for students to complete any of the work except for the end date of the course. Students will only have access to the material for the duration of the course. Not having deadlines can cause some students to push back their learning again and again, leaving it until the last minute to get any of the work done. This can greatly hinder their learning. Before jumping into the training, once students gain access to the material, they should set up a training schedule that works for them and set strict deadlines for themselves so they can work on the material throughout the duration of the course.
Self-paced learning has its downsides, but it works well for motivated and self-disciplined people. If you like working alone, this approach can be very effective. Controlling the course pace can help students. They can spend more time on tough topics and move quickly through what they already know. This method is particularly beneficial for students who prefer to take their time and thoroughly grasp each concept before moving forward. With the right level of commitment, self-paced learning can offer a rewarding and adaptable way to master BIM.
Advantages of Learning in a Live Online Environment?
If the self-paced learning environment does not appeal to you, or you want more interaction throughout the course, you can still enroll in live online training. One of the main reasons students enroll in these courses is because they provide the same benefits of in-person training without the need for a commute. These courses make learning more accessible to more students. Throughout live online courses, students will learn to follow a fully structured curriculum. Instructors will allow time for questions to help students through difficult topics. Discussions will happen in real time over teleconferencing systems. Instructors will also be able to take control of students' computer screens temporarily to help them and give them feedback on assignments. Live sessions help students stay on track. They create accountability, which motivates those who like guidance. Engaging with peers in real time builds a sense of community. This helps students collaborate and feel more connected to the material. Students can enjoy all of this from the comfort of their own homes or wherever there is a stable internet connection.
However, even with live online learning, students may still encounter challenges that distract them from learning the material. Even in a world that is reliant upon technology, sometimes that reliance can cause issues. As students attend class, they need to maintain a strong internet connection, or they risk disconnecting and missing out on information. Since BIM is a skill that relies on different software, students may encounter glitches or issues with the software. Without someone there to help troubleshoot the issue, students often have to fix it on their own, which can disrupt their learning process and cause them to fall behind on material. Live online training also eliminates the flexibility that self-paced courses provide. Students still have to adjust their schedules to attend class at the scheduled times. This can cause conflicts with work or other obligations. Those with unpredictable schedules may find it difficult to fully commit to the course since these courses lack flexibility.
Live online learning has its downsides, but it's great for people who do well in interactive and structured settings. It's great for students who like quick feedback and enjoy learning together. Live sessions help keep students engaged and feel less isolated than in self-paced learning. Live online courses offer a dynamic and supportive learning experience. These classes can be as effective as traditional in-person education. However, this works best for those who can stick to the schedule and have reliable technology.
What About Free Resources
You can't forget about the countless free resources that are available online to learn BIM. These resources can prove to be a great starting point for those wanting to learn on a budget. For visual learners, you can find countless video tutorials available on YouTube, especially channels like VDCI, that cover different elements of BIM. You can find tutorials that cover the basics or even more advanced techniques, depending on what you want to accomplish with your training. A great place to seek advice is to look through and participate in forums and online communities. You can find several communities on Reddit that will discuss various topics about BIM, Revit, construction, and AEC industries. Autodesk also has a forum that allows people to share their knowledge on BIM and other topics to help people learn more about the skill. These resources are great for students checking out BIM as they provide a good overview of the software and concepts before signing up for a paid course. Free resources can be enough for those with strong self-discipline and motivation to gain a foundational understanding of BIM.
However, free resources do not provide as in-depth training as enrolling in a BIM course. When you use free resources, you are not learning in a structured manner, which can cause gaps in your learning. Free tutorials usually don't provide the support and interaction that paid courses do. This makes it tougher to get personal help when you have questions. The quality of free resources can vary a lot. Students may struggle to tell which content is accurate and reliable and which is not trustworthy. If you need more guidance and a structured way to learn, free resources may not be enough to achieve expertise in BIM.
What Training Method is Best for Me?
Now that you have looked at the various ways you can learn BIM and the different advantages and drawbacks of those training methods, you have to decide which one is best for you. How do you decide that, though? Deciding on which BIM training method best fits you depends on several factors, including learning style, schedule, and learning goals.
Before deciding on any particular class, you should consider if you want to learn BIM in-person or online. Eliminating one of these types of training methods can cut your class choices down to a handful. If you choose online training, you need to decide which type of online training best aligns with your learning style. If you want to maintain a traditional learning environment but don't want to commute, you should stick with live online training. If you want more flexibility but still want to communicate with your instructor, narrow your search down to self-paced options. On-demand courses allow you to take the entire learning process into your own hands, offering flexibility and independence while still providing a structured course for students to follow.
Taking in your learning style is important, as you don't want to commit to a course that will not help you succeed in your learning goals. However, you also want a course that will fit in with your schedule or not force you to change it too much. If you need more flexibility with your training as you have a busy schedule, on-demand or self-paced courses might be the way for you to go. If your schedule is not an issue, you can enroll in live online or in-person BIM courses. While you want a course that fits with your learning style and schedule, you ultimately want a course that will get you to your career goals.
Each type of training is a different investment into your future. Free resources can serve as a great start to learning BIM, yet they do not offer the comprehensive structure and guidance that paid programs provide. They can help get you started on your learning journey; however, it is unlikely they will get you to your end goals. If you want to develop in-depth BIM skills for a career, you will want to invest in formal training. If you want to jump into a new career, you will want to look for BIM bootcamps or certificate courses as these courses provide students with the skills necessary to jump straight into a new career. Luckily, bootcamps and certificate courses are available in-person and online. No matter what your goals are, you can find the course that fits in with your needs and will help you learn BIM.
Learn BIM with Hands-on Training at VDCI
As you start looking for training, you will find various schools and providers that offer BIM training. The Virtual Design & Construction Institute (VDCI) offers various courses designed to help students develop strong BIM skills, whether they are just starting or looking to specialize in a particular area. All courses offered through VDCI are self-paced training programs. These programs allow students 24/7 access to the course materials so they can fit their learning into their schedule. Traditional on-demand courses have students working through the material alone; however, VDCI wanted to change that by creating immersive forums that allow for easy interaction between peers in the same course. Students will also be able to interact with instructors in the VDCI Student Lounge. While students will work through the material independently and when it fits into their schedule, they can still ask questions when they encounter difficulty, making VDCI a top choice for students who need flexibility with their training. You can find various BIM training courses to help you meet your BIM learning goals.
The Revit Certification course dives into Revit Architecture while preparing students for the Autodesk Certified User Exam in Revit. Students will begin by learning the fundamental concepts of BIM like creating construction documents. As they progress, students will begin designing 3D building models and transform 3D models into 2D architectural drawings. They will become familiar with Revit concepts and the various Revit Architecture tools. At the end of the course, students are ready for the Autodesk Revit certification exam. This credential is valuable for professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction.
The BIM Certificate Program combines various courses to teach the technical skills and workflows of BIM to prepare students for a career in the AEC industry. Students start by learning the fundamentals of Revit before advancing into more complex techniques. They will also explore creating and managing BIM models, and creating various construction documents. During part of the course, students will focus on creating building systems that illustrate structural integrity. Each part of the course aims to develop stronger BIM skills, allowing students to become proficient in all aspects of the skill.
If you want to focus on learning specific aspects of BIM, you can enroll in individual skill courses like BIM Construction Documents 1 or BIM Detailing. BIM Construction Documents 1 shows students how to use Revit Architecture tools to create architectural models of existing buildings, demolition, and new construction. They will dive into building topography for different projects to showcase landscaping. Students will also learn how to produce various renderings for presentations. In BIM Detailing, students will focus on honing their detailing skills. Part of creating 3D renderings for construction is making sure they are accurate, which forces users to focus on the smaller details. They will learn how to illustrate structural integrity and integrate details that limit or prevent injury or costly mistakes during the construction of a building. Both of these courses require basic knowledge of Revit and are great if you are looking to develop certain skills within BIM.
The BIM Project Management course offers key training for professionals. It focuses on managing large projects, coordinating BIM workflows, and improving collaboration. This course teaches real-world project management strategies. Students will learn to oversee BIM processes, keep project timelines, and ensure quality control. The Introduction to Navisworks course shows students how to use BIM models. They learn to detect clashes, visualize projects, and improve coordination. Navisworks is key for construction teams. It helps them spot conflicts before work starts. VDCI offers courses that give students the technical and strategic skills they need to thrive in today's BIM-driven industry. No matter what type of training you are seeking to learn BIM, you can find courses that fit your needs with VDCI!