One of the most popular ways to study construction is through live online courses. Many top educational providers around the US have live online coursework available in this subject in the form of skills classes, bootcamps, certificate programs, and certifications. Students at all levels, including those who are just getting started in construction, can find a program that matches their learning needs.
Whereas in-person classes require that students live near a designated training facility, live online coursework can be completed from any geographic location that has an internet connection. Participants receive real-time instruction from a live instructor and gain the same hands-on, small-class training as they would through in-person study. Best of all, since all training can be completed remotely, there’s no need to battle rush-hour traffic or waste time searching for parking to attend live online courses. Keep on reading to find out more about the reasons live online training is a good option to consider, the factors to consider when exploring this option, and the type of learner who will benefit most from this form of study.
What is Construction?
Construction is a broad term that involves building systems, objects, or organizations. Building construction includes all activities on a site that involve assembling and erecting structures. This term also includes the planning, financing, and design initiatives required throughout the building process to ensure structures remain usable. In addition to the building phase, construction also entails any maintenance-related repairs, expansion projects, demolition initiatives, or dismantling tasks.
There are four primary types of construction: residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure. Residential construction involves building single or multi-family dwellings for individuals and their families. Commercial construction entails building or renovating commercial structures such as warehouses, storage facilities, or office spaces that can be sold or leased. Industrial construction is the practice of building structures or premises like power plants, processing plants, factories, or warehouses that can be used for manufacturing-related tasks. Infrastructure construction is the act of building, renovating, and maintaining private or public structures like tunnels, water supply lines, railways, roads, and bridges.
Learn Construction
- Nationally accredited
- Create your own portfolio
- Free student software
- Learn at your convenience
- Authorized Autodesk training center
Why Learn Construction?
Studying construction is a great opportunity for those who enjoy being outdoors or working with their hands to acquire the training necessary to pursue a range of dynamic, high-paying career paths. Construction jobs are an excellent alternative to desk jobs; these physically active roles promote fitness and health. Because construction projects are available at many locations, this career path provides professionals with geographical flexibility and the possibility of working in many settings or locations. Construction training also helps individuals develop problem-solving skills, which can be used in a variety of circumstances and situations outside the professional sector. Additionally, since construction projects often involve multiple team members or teams, training can provide learners with the collaborative skills and tools necessary to effectively communicate with multiple stakeholders.
Working on a construction project is a good opportunity to experience the sense of accomplishment and pride that corresponds with seeing a project through. Those who construct houses, bridges, tunnels, or factories can see firsthand the tangible results of their labors and take comfort in knowing that these structures will be used for many years. Since construction projects play an integral role in community development and maintenance, construction professionals know that the fruits of their efforts will have a positive impact on communities. Constructing hospitals, schools, or playgrounds improves the quality of life for those in the community and can provide a sense of fulfillment for every professional who contributes to the process.
In addition to its myriad professional uses in the construction industry, construction training also can help those in other fields perform a range of pragmatic tasks. Those who study construction can apply this knowledge to fields like engineering, architecture, and graphic design. Basic knowledge of the construction process, delivery methods and contacting types, building elements, safety, construction terminology, and sustainability practices can be an asset for anyone interested in exploring how to create structures or systems. Additionally, non-professionals who acquire basic construction skills can use this knowledge for home improvement projects, including small home renovations and repairs. This skill set is also helpful for property maintenance-related tasks such as repairing drywall, fixing dripping faucets, or replacing light fixtures. Familiarity with basic construction terms and processes can also help homeowners more effectively communicate with Contractors about upcoming projects. These skills also are helpful for those who work in property management or real estate.
Why Learn in a Live Online Class?
Live online construction training is an engaging and effective way to study this in-demand skill set. All lessons are taught in real time using a live teleconferencing platform like Zoom. Participants can feel free to ask questions in the moment, seek clarification on challenging topics, and even give the instructor permission to share their screen for additional support. In addition to benefitting from the knowledge and real-world training the instructor provides, participants can interact with other students who are attending class remotely. This can provide a sense of camaraderie and community in the virtual classroom.
One of the main advantages of live online study is that it doesn’t require a commute. There’s no need to spend valuable time searching for parking or battling rush-hour traffic to attend classes. Additionally, there’s no cost associated with buying gas or paying tolls. Instead, all work can be completed remotely from the student’s own space. This makes live online study especially appealing for those who don’t live near a training center or who don’t have access to a car or other form of reliable transportation.
Many top providers offer live online construction classes on a part-time or full-time basis. Students can select the training format that’s in line with their scheduling needs. This flexibility is an asset for those who work full-time and may need to attend classes on weeknights or weekends, as well as for individuals who would prefer to knock out their training in a relatively condensed timeframe. Since live online classes can be completed from anywhere with stable internet, students can even attend training sessions while traveling for work or on vacation. This type of flexibility isn’t an option when attending in-person construction classes.
What Should I Know Before Enrolling in a Live Online Class?
If you’re considering enrolling in a live online construction course, there are several factors to consider before you sign up. The first is that this type of study does require that students be able to attend classes that meet at regularly scheduled intervals. Depending on the provider and the program, this may mean carving out time twice or three times a week for part-time classes or full weeks for full-time, immersive training. Those who are employed full-time or who have busy personal lives may find it challenging or impossible to attend live training. For these individuals, self-paced study options may be a more viable alternative.
Because live online construction training is taught remotely using a teleconferencing platform, it’s essential for all learners to have reliable, high-speed internet to complete their training. Similarly, all participants will need to have their own computing device for their studies and have the most up-to-date software installed and ready to use. Individuals who don’t have fast-speed internet or a home computer may opt instead for in-person study because the training facility will provide them with all the tools necessary to complete training.
Generally speaking, live study is the most expensive way to learn any topic. Students who invest in this type of coursework will often have to devote more money to their studies than those who learn through self-paced materials or free online resources. While cost is a definite consideration, the additional investment pays for itself for most learners because real-time, live instruction provides many learning benefits. All students receive individualized support during their studies and have the opportunity to interact with the instructor and other students. Some live online programs such as certificates, also offer additional learning or professional incentives included with tuition such as 1-on-1 mentoring sessions, career counseling, resume critiques, or access to networking events.
Who Stands to Benefit the Most from a Live Online Class?
No two learners are the same in terms of the type of construction training they will find most beneficial. For the average learner, live online training is a good option if they are able to commit to attending regularly scheduled classes and have the tools in place to get the most out of their studies. Individuals who work full-time, for example, may be unable to attend full-time live online programs that meet five days a week. They may do better with part-time study options or prefer the flexibility of on-demand training. Similarly, those who don’t have a home computer with a working camera or who have a slow internet connection may find it challenging to complete live online classes.
Since live online study takes place in a virtual setting, students who get the most out of this form of study should be comfortable interacting with the instructor and other learners using a teleconferencing platform. Those who thrive in the traditional classroom environment and are used to interacting with others this way may find that live online training feels less natural than in-person classes. It may take them time to become comfortable learning and contributing in this pedagogical environment. However, it’s important for all students interested in live online training to be engaged and attentive during class sessions to get the most out of training. If this feels like it may pose challenges for you, then in-person study is likely a better match.
Alternatives to Live Online Classes
Live online construction classes are a great option for many learners, but they aren’t the best match for everyone. In-person training is one popular alternative for learning construction. In-person classes are similar to live online programs and offer many of the same learning outcomes, including the same course material and syllabus. Many educators offer students the option of attending their training in-person at a computer lab or live online on Zoom. The same material is being taught in each format. More traditionally minded students may feel more comfortable learning in a room with an instructor rather than connecting with them remotely. For these individuals, enrolling in an in-person construction class is a great option. These courses are available for learners at all levels in the form of short skills classes, bootcamps, and certificate programs.
Self-paced construction classes are another alternative to live online study. These programs are recorded at an earlier time and placed online. Each learner can access their training materials as their schedule permits and spend as little or as much time in a given day or week on coursework. The flexibility of on-demand classes is a major incentive for students who are unable to attend live classes due to professional or personal commitments. Although no instructor is available in this type of study, self-paced courses can provide a good way for aspiring construction professionals to learn the basics of this field or learn more about a specific type of construction such as fire safety design.
Free resources are also available as a learning option for construction study. These include YouTube channels, online tutorials and blogs, webinars, and research articles. These resources vary significantly in terms of length and scope. Learners can watch short YouTube videos that take only ten minutes on how to read basic blueprints or opt for longer videos that take hours to watch and include an overview of the field of construction and core tools professionals use. Some students may want to combine different kinds of free resources to provide a more well-rounded understanding of construction. They may, for example, read online construction tutorials such as those offered by Noble Desktop that provide well-researched information on topics like how to use Autodesk Revit to create building sections or sprinkler legends and also look at Audodesk’s website to find free construction training material like quick start guides, short tutorials, and expert tips. Autodesk also has community forums that provide answers to questions and information on specific questions or provide information on construction software. Additionally, LinkedIn has construction-related threads and groups that provide relevant information on this topic.
Yet another alternative to live online training in construction is attending a trade apprenticeship in a field like carpentry, masonry, plumbing, or electrical work. During apprenticeships, students work full-time on a construction site and are under the supervision of one or more construction professionals. This type of training is an excellent way to acquire real-world, hands-on training in a safe and supportive environment. It also allows individuals to earn a wage while they explore specific construction trades. Most apprenticeships require an additional three to four years of training for learners to reach the level of journeyman and work on their trade independently. This is often a viable option for those who have already completed construction-related coursework and want to demonstrate their knowledge in a real-world setting.
Level of Difficulty, Prerequisites, and Cost to Learn Construction
Although most people don’t consider it “easy” to learn construction, it’s a very achievable goal for those willing to devote the time and energy needed to acquire hands-on training. This physically demanding field is usually gradually picked up by most individuals over time as they complete classes, hold apprenticeships, and receive on-the-job training. Learners should keep in mind that this type of work doesn’t just require technical knowledge; it’s also physically demanding and requires endurance, strength, and dexterity to perform tasks like working in all types of weather conditions or lifting heavy materials.
After completing training or taking subject-specific courses, many construction professionals continue their learning through on-the-job training or apprenticeships. These provide a way for construction workers to practice the skills they’ve learned during their studies as they work alongside experienced professionals. Because construction is such a broad category, those interested in working in this field should keep in mind that they may need to acquire specialized training in trades like electrical work, masonry, or carpentry, in addition to more generalized training in safety protocols and best construction practices. This can require additional time and training.
While no formal prerequisites (including a college degree) are required to break into the field of construction, certain skills can expedite the learning process. Those who are interested in pursuing a construction career will benefit from soft skills like problem-solving, time management, attention to detail, and clear communication. Additionally, basic mathematical proficiency and technical knowledge are also an asset.
The costs associated with learning construction vary greatly depending on the training approach the individual selects. Those who opt for formal training will find courses that range in price from several hundred dollars to $5,000, depending on the provider and the scope of instruction available. Free training resources are also offered by many providers in the form of online tutorials, YouTube videos, blogs, self-paced classes, or webinars. Some learners may opt to continue their training through apprenticeships, which do not cost anything to attend and also provide learners with a source of income as they acquire real-world construction skills.
Learn Construction with Hands-on Training at VDCI
If you’re interested in learning more about construction, you can find construction classes at VDCI. The Virtual Design and Construction Institute (VDCI) is an accredited educator that provides comprehensive online training in a range of construction-related tools and topics.
Those interested in learning construction basics can enroll in the Construction Fundamentals Course Bundle. This beginner-level program provides participants with training in all the core elements of the building construction process, from preliminary site work to final installations. This bundle includes six courses that prepare participants to work with all major systems and materials in a building. Students acquire basic construction terminology and the steps for constructing a building. This set of classes includes a free 1-on-1 individual training session.
In the Construction Management Bundle Course, learners devote several weeks to building a solid foundation in the skills and tools required to work in construction management or project management. This two-part immersive program includes an overview of the construction industry, various sectors, site logistics, document control, master planning, and scheduling. A 1-on-1 bonus training is included with tuition.
The VDCI also offers a Construction Estimator Course. This introductory-level program is led by a professional Construction Estimator with real-world experience creating cost estimates. Participants devote several weeks to exploring the different types of estimates and how they are organized. Students study the reason for offering estimates, the tools available to assist with this process, and the skills needed to provide accurate estimates. All participants complete a graded project.
Aspiring construction professionals can also enroll in VDCI’s Blueprint Reading Fundamentals Course Bundle. This set of self-paced courses offers expert instruction in basic blueprint reading skills for use in commercial or residential construction projects. This comprehensive class requires several weeks of on-demand study. Coursework is taught by a licensed Architect and includes basic training in scale, drawing types, and specifications for mixed-use projects. This class is intended to help professionals like Engineering Interns, Architects, Drafters, and Designers understand and interpret blueprints. By course completion, participants will be able to independently navigate a set of construction documents. This class includes a free 1-on-1 bonus training session.