When learning Building Information Modeling or BIM, various resources are available to help students at every stage of their journey. Online courses are one of the most popular options, offering flexibility and access to structured learning. Depending on the type of course you want to enroll in, you can find various providers and courses that cover various BIM topics. VDCI offers several introductory self-paced BIM courses and several self-paced BIM certificate programs. Industry professionals teach many of these courses and offer certifications upon completion. You can look into several professional groups with chapters nationwide, depending on why you want to learn BIM. The BuildingSMART Alliance and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) can be great resources for those wanting to pursue architecture or construction and provide great networking opportunities. Depending on the area, these groups may host training, webinars, or workshops.
However, various resources exist beyond structured courses that will help support BIM training. Popular BIM software developers, like Autodesk, provide various resources for learning their programs. While they offer on-demand courses, they also have articles discussing the latest within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. These articles allow new users to see the up-to-date happenings with different software.
Many students looking for a budget-friendly way to learn BIM turn to YouTube. With tutorials on basically everything, those wanting to grasp the basics of BIM can find video tutorials on software, demos, and tips, all with a few clicks. One can also utilize different forums and online communities, like Reddit or specialized BIM forums. These sites allow those new to the skill to learn and ask questions of those who have been in the industry for some time. This interaction can teach students new tips and tricks to overcome difficult topics. They can share experiences and work together with others in the field. Of course, while these free resources provide a great way to start learning BIM, enrolling in a course, whether self-paced or live, is the best way to learn all the in-depth details of BIM and ensure you are career-ready.
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.
Advantages and Limitations of Online Resources
You will find thousands of online resources when looking for ways to learn BIM. These resources are crucial for students as they provide countless benefits. Most commonly, you will find online BIM classes. Classes can provide students with a structured way of learning BIM skills conveniently. With most information being available within seconds at a person's fingertips, it makes sense that learning would transition to an online space. Online classes remove the need for lengthy commutes to in-person training without sacrificing interaction or structure. One can enroll in a class and participate wherever they are most comfortable. Outside of courses, though, one can find various tutorials and forums that allow students to take their learning into their own hands. Online resources allow students to fit learning into their busy schedules. They are not limited by where they are or when classes happen. Online resources offer many learning formats. These include videos, articles, quizzes, and interactive exercises. This variety helps students learn in different ways, which can help make it easier to understand difficult topics as they can work through them in their own time.
While online resources provide students with needed flexibility, some students may struggle without a structured approach. When first choosing to learn BIM, you may take to the internet to start diving into the skill. However, you may not know where to begin learning. BIM incorporates several different software with design and construction knowledge. You may find that these online resources are pulling our learning in several different directions without clarifying what you need to know. Enrolling in a BIM course can help alleviate some of the struggles as it provides a structure for students to follow, and the course tends to cover industry-standard skills. Other students may also struggle with motivation to continue their learning. If one relies on free online resources, it can become easy to put learning on the back burner when life gets busy. Courses also help limit this struggle, as students must attend and participate if they want to learn.
Advantages and Limitations of Self-Paced Resources
Out of all the online resources that you will find, you will find various self-paced training programs and resources. Choosing to pursue this training option can provide you with many great benefits. Most students who opt for self-paced learning need more flexibility with their training. Students can work through the material at a speed that works best for them, adjusting when they come across difficult topics. This type of learning helps those with busy schedules. It removes fixed class times. Students can fit their studies into their personal lives. Self-paced resources rely on different learning materials than live training. Students will work through various videos, quizzes, and exercises to demonstrate their knowledge of BIM. These materials can cater to various learning styles and help students grasp the material from different angles. Self-paced courses also give students the control over their learning. While they are still enrolled in a structured course, students have control over how much time they spend in that course. This goes for both self-paced training options that provide interaction with the instructor and those that do not.
While self-paced training offers students various benefits, some students can struggle with this learning method. Some students find it hard to concentrate and stay focused on the material when they have other things going on in their lives. Students must discipline themselves in self-paced courses. Learning BIM is solely on them when they enroll in a self-paced course. There is no instructor to hold you accountable for the work. Even though most self-paced programs offer students a way to interact with their instructor, it does not mean that the instructor will actively participate throughout the student's learning during the course. Students will need to stay on top of their studies to get it done before the class ends. Other students may struggle with the lack of interaction. Self-paced programs offer flexibility, but they truly benefit students who are highly independent. Students who thrive with interaction should look into different types of training methods to learn BIM.
Self-paced learning can prove to be difficult to gauge one's progress accurately. Many online courses offer assessments but don't always show how well a student understands the material. Some students rush through lessons and miss key concepts. Others get stuck on tough material and waste time. You can solve this by regular check-ins or getting feedback from the instructor or peers. Self-paced learning can be very effective. Students just need to be proactive about seeking help and staying disciplined.
Advantages and Limitations of On-Demand Resources
On-demand courses are very similar to self-paced courses, especially on the surface. They even offer many of the same benefits of self-paced training. Students receive the same level of flexibility that they get with self-paced courses. They can work through the material at a pace that works best for them. They can fit their training into their schedule however they see fit. Students can work through the easier material and spend more time focused on the material that challenges them. They can revisit tough topics without a strict schedule or class pressure. However, unlike self-paced courses, if a student gets stuck with a concept, they cannot ask their instructor to walk them through it. On-demand courses have no interaction with the instructor. Students will have to work through the material completely on their own. They will have to find answers to their questions by using other resources.
One of the main reasons students opt for on-demand courses is how cost-effective they are. On-demand courses provide students with an affordable way to jump into BIM training. With platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, and Coursera, students can either pay directly for the course or pay a subscription fee to access the course. While this makes courses easily accessible to anyone who wants to learn, some of these courses do not provide students with the depth of learning they need to pursue the career they want. They may have to enroll in several different on-demand courses to reach a decent level of proficiency. This can become costly over time. Plus, without any interaction with an instructor, students don't know for sure if they are understanding the material correctly. They may be passing quizzes and projects, but no one is there to correct them if they are not doing something correctly within the BIM software.
On-demand courses are a great way to add flexibility to your training if you need to work training around a busy schedule. However, this training method does have some bigger drawbacks than others. On-demand courses can provide a great resource for supplementing learning from other training methods, giving students a great way to put their skills into practice.
Advantages and Limitations of Free Resources
Free resources can be a great way to start learning a new skill, as they often offer accessible content without any upfront costs. You can find countless free resources to start learning BIM. These resources offer a basic introduction, helping students see if this field suits them. This allows students to test the waters without spending any money on training. You can find free materials in various formats, including videos, articles, forums, and free trials of software. These resources make it easy to find content that matches up with your learning style. Students can use free resources to explore topics at their own pace, taking complete control over their learning. This way, they gain valuable knowledge without the stress of costly courses.
While free resources can offer new students numerous benefits to jump-start their learning, they do not compare to the learning one would receive in a structured course. Those new to BIM might not know where to start their training or what exactly they should learn to pursue the career they want. This can lead to students focusing time on unnecessary skills. Students may also find resources that provide out-of-date information, which can make it difficult to translate the information into practice, especially with BIM software. Oftentimes, you will find that these resources do not dive into the more advanced topics, which causes major gaps in learning. These resources provide a great way to introduce yourself to new topics and even strengthen learning when using other training methods, but by themselves, most free resources are lacking. The time it would take to master BIM by using free resources is not worth it when you could be career-ready in a few months by enrolling in a course.
What Supplemental Resources Are Available?
Once you decide on the type of course you want to enroll in, you can use various resources to supplement and strengthen your learning of BIM. Many of these resources are free or low-cost. It is important to remember that none of these resources should replace enrolling in a training course.
- YouTube/Video Tutorials: When you are working through a class, you may need to remind yourself of a particular tool or process, turning to a YouTube tutorial or other videos can help bring that information back to the forefront of your mind. With a simple search you can find various videos that cover a wide range of BIM topics. Videos can also provide you with another perspective or explanation that can help you understand a difficult concept.
- Industry Blogs: When it comes to learning BIM, there is more than understanding the technical skills that make up the skill. You will also want to learn about the AEC industry. By finding reputable industry blogs, you can stay up-to-date on software updates and large construction projects and receive expert advice. Some blogs may even offer troubleshooting guides or tutorials that can help reinforce ideas you've learned inside the classroom.
- Online Forums: No matter what type of training format you are in, having another place to interact with professionals and other students can always come in handy. Online forums provide individuals with a space to discuss anything BIM-related. You may find conversations talking about ways to improve workflow or how to overcome certain challenges with BIM software. These forums can also give you insights into the industry that your class might not cover.
- Books: Books are always a great way to learn more about a topic. You can find various books on BIM topics, including books that walk you by using Revit. While books can provide you with a wealth of information, they help reinforce the knowledge you learn in class. You may even want to expand your knowledge into related areas that will only strengthen your knowledge of BIM.
How to Choose Your Ideal Learning Plan
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!