You will encounter several learning methods when looking into training to learn Building Information Modeling (BIM). These methods range from in-person to online classes to free resources. However, as the internet has become integral to daily life, more online classes have become available. With various types of online training available, most students tend to enroll in live online classes. Live online classes have students partake in scheduled, real-time classes from a comfortable location. Students will log into a teleconferencing system or online portal to attend class. These classes provide students with a similar learning environment to in-person training, without having to commute to a training location. If a student lives in a rural area that does not have easy access to training centers, they do not need to put their training on hold until they can travel to a city to attend training sessions. Live online training brings training to the students. This training format also opens the door to the training providers students can access. Students used to have access only to the classes available in their immediate area, but they can now enroll in a course from a provider based in New York, even if they live in Los Angeles. However, students mainly enroll in live online classes because they bring a traditional classroom experience to the students in their homes.
When students enroll in an in-person course, they expect an instructor to guide them through a set curriculum, give them projects and assignments, and give them feedback on their progress throughout the course. Live online training brings that same expectation without forcing students to commute to a training location. Students will still engage with their peers and their instructors throughout the course. Students can ask questions and receive feedback immediately, just like in a traditional classroom setting. These classes are perfect for students who wish to have the structure and environment of a traditional classroom but need the convenience of remote learning.
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.
Why Learn in a Live Online Class?
With so many different training methods available, what makes live online learning stand out against the rest. Each type of online training offers students unique benefits that can positively impact a student's learning experience. Compared to the other online methods, live online training is the only type to match in-person training with consistent real-time interaction with the instructor. This alone puts live online training on par with in-person training, which experts agree is the best way to learn any new skill, making live online a great alternative. Students can ask questions, clarify any confusion, receive feedback, and troubleshoot issues that may arise. This immediate connection helps students stay on track and fully understand the material as they receive it. Interacting directly with experts gives learning a more personal touch.
Some may worry that having a class online does not foster a collaborative learning environment. While some may find that learning behind a screen feels isolating, even with live online classes, instructors take the time to develop a learning environment that still promotes collaboration and networking. Oftentimes, instructors will have students work through projects together, making it similar to in-person classes. While it may not allow people to have the traditional face-to-face interaction they are used to, it still fosters a sense of community in the classroom. During discussion throughout the course, students can gain perspective on aspects of AEC industries. This can be extremely beneficial to those who joined a class without any industry knowledge. While it may not be exactly like a traditional classroom, live online training brings traditional classrooms to a modern setting.
Since live online classes provide students with a similar learning environment to traditional classrooms, having the course online provides students with more flexibility with their learning. With in-person training, students would need to take commute time into account when planning out which course to enroll in. If they need to be across town after work to attend training, they may be late to class if traffic is bad. Or they would need to leave work early to get there on time. With live online training, students can log on from home or their office to attend class. Students can join the class from anywhere with a stable internet connection. While students still need to attend class at the specified time, it doesn't matter where they are. This flexibility helps students balance work and other responsibilities with their training. They can still enjoy a structured learning experience without having to sacrifice more than the time it takes to participate in the class. As a result, it's an ideal option for those who want the benefits of live instruction but need the convenience of remote access.
What Should I Know Before Enrolling in a Live Online Class?
Live Online courses have many benefits, but students should think about the drawbacks before enrolling. Even though technology is part of our daily lives, there is still the potential for technical issues to arise. Having a stable internet connection and a compatible device for BIM software is essential to accessing live online training without any interruptions. If students have unstable internet, they may encounter various issues, including poor audio or video, connection drops or delays. Each of these issues can create knowledge gaps in their learning. Classes cannot stop just because one person loses the connection to the class. Not having a computer that can properly run BIM software can make it difficult to keep up with the class as they work through the various tools and functions of the software. Having proper equipment is vital to ensure your learning does not get interrupted. Some courses will list the requirements for the course on the course description page. This allows students to prepare for any necessary changes they may need to make. If you are unsure about any specific computer requirements, you can always reach out to the provider. When learning a new skill, no one wants to have their learning delayed.
Even though live online training promotes a similar learning environment to in-person training, students still need to have self-discipline and a certain amount of personal accountability when they enroll in an online course. Even though the courses are still scheduled like an in-person class, having the course online makes it easier to push aside if other commitments come up; since there is no need to make the commute, some students may find it hard to motivate themselves to attend the digital training session. Along with the accountability of attending class, students need to manage their time to keep up with any assignments, projects, and additional study. Unlike in-person learning, where there is more immediate accountability, live online students are responsible for staying on track with their progress. This format needs more motivation and organization. It's tough for people who have trouble managing their time. Students who thrive in more guided, hands-on environments may find this challenging.
Live online courses might not offer the same social interaction and networking chances as in-person classes do. While students can communicate through chat features or virtual breakout rooms, these interactions may not be as dynamic or personal as face-to-face conversations. Building relationships with peers and instructors can be more difficult in an online setting, which might limit the chances of collaboration or making professional connections. Students who value networking and direct interaction with their peers might need to consider whether a live online course provides the social environment they seek.
Who Stands to Benefit the Most from a Live Online Class?
Live online classes are a great option for students who thrive in structured learning environments but require the flexibility of remote access. People juggling work, family, or other commitments can really benefit from attending classes anywhere. Students can join scheduled sessions without commuting. This flexibility helps them fit education into their busy lives. People with many responsibilities or those in areas with few in-person classes can find live online learning helpful.
Students who prefer real-time interaction with instructors and peers stand to benefit from live online training over other forms of online training. Live online courses let students ask questions, join discussions, and work with classmates. In contrast, self-paced learning has students working through the material independently. Self-paced courses do provide forums and online chat rooms to interact with peers and instructors; however, it is not the same as having everyone working through the material at the same time in the same place. This format works best for students who prefer an interactive setting. They gain confidence and benefit from quick feedback. Live online courses are great for those who like learning with others by providing a mix of structure and connection. This can make the material more engaging and easier to grasp.
Live online classes help students gain specific skills and advance their careers fast. Students get direct access to instructors and follow a clear curriculum. This helps them stay on track and get the support they need to succeed. This method is great for people who want to quickly get good at BIM, programming, or project management. Students with clear career goals or those wanting certification will value live online courses. These courses help them make steady progress while keeping their education quality high.
Alternatives to Live Online Classes
Live online training is not always the best fit for everyone. Luckily, there are various other types of training methods that offer their own benefits to learning skills, especially BIM. Students can opt for the more traditional learning environment and find an in-person course. Students can find individual skill workshops or intensive skill bootcamps. These programs provide hands-on experience and live instruction. Their structure makes them perfect for students who like face-to-face interaction. Workshops and bootcamps offer focused training in a short time, allowing students to explore specific BIM tools or techniques in depth. These courses provide students with the highest level of structure and interaction. However, if you want to pursue online training but don't think live online training is the best fit, there are plenty of other options available.
Self-paced courses provide students with more flexibility to work through the material at a speed that matches the student's schedule and learning speed. Students can access lessons and resources anytime, allowing them to learn concepts at their own pace without the stress of a strict deadline. These courses allow students to revisit difficult topics as needed, giving them the time and space to dive into the material and work through their understanding. If they still struggle with certain topics or wish to check their understanding, many self-paced learning providers offer online forums or voice/video chat rooms where students can interact with their peers and instructors. Self-paced courses help people manage other commitments such as work or family. This way, they can still reach their educational goals.
Students may also opt for on-demand courses. These programs are similar to self-paced, as students will work through the material when they have the time; however, on-demand courses do not have any interaction with the instructor. All of the material is pre-recorded. If students have questions, they will need to look for answers on their own. Students who want to learn on a budget may choose this option or look for free BIM resources. Free resources can provide students with a great starting point for exploring the different skills within BIM. However, it can be easy to get distracted by these resources and start learning skills that are unnecessary, or you can find outdated information.
If you want a more personalized learning experience, one-on-one tutoring or mentorship can be a great choice. Choosing to learn from a mentorship or one-on-one tutoring gives students complete control over their learning and gives them access to an expert in the field. They will receive customized learning based on their needs and goals. During these training sessions, students can address any challenges they face, and their mentor can provide tailored advice that will directly benefit the student. While this is often a pricey way to learn, it allows students to learn faster or work through areas they need extra help with. Mentorships can also offer valuable career insights that other forms of training do not. No matter what your learning goals are, there are various courses available that will help you achieve those 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.
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!