Online construction training is available from many top providers in the US. Live online courses are taught using a teleconferencing platform that provides students with a real-time connection to an expert instructor. This type of study is a great way for learners at all levels to receive interactive, hands-on instruction without having to commute or battle rush-hour traffic. Live online construction classes are offered in a variety of formats, including short skills courses, bootcamps, and certificates. Students can select from courses that take just a day to complete and focus on a specific construction-related tool or skill or bootcamp programs that progress from beginner to intermediate and advanced-level training over several weeks. Certificates typically provide the most comprehensive form of online training and offer a deep dive into the field of construction and the core tools and software being used. These programs can take several months of live online study to complete and often include professional development incentives along with small class instruction.
In addition to live online study options, many reputable educators offer on-demand skills classes, bootcamps, or certificate programs. Unlike live training that takes place in real-time, these study options are pre-recorded and placed online for students to complete at their own pace. This flexible study option empowers students to dictate their learning pace and schedule their studies around other life commitments.
Read on to find out more about the various types of online construction training that are available, the benefits and drawbacks of each option, and how to determine which type of online coursework is right for you.
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.
Learn Construction
- Nationally accredited
- Create your own portfolio
- Free student software
- Learn at your convenience
- Authorized Autodesk training center
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.
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 positively impact 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 Construction Online?
Studying construction in the online setting presents learners with the opportunity to develop an in-demand skill set without having to leave home to do so. Whether they opt for live online training or self-paced classes, most individuals benefit greatly from the instruction they receive during online construction training. Those who are new to this field can learn the basics by enrolling in a short, introductory-level class or attending a beginner-friendly bootcamp that starts with an overview of the field and the common tools professionals use. Intermediate and advanced-level classes are also available online for those hoping to take their training even further and gain more specialized knowledge in subjects like construction management. Best of all, there’s no need to trek across town in rush hour to attend class or waste time and money on parking for every course meeting. This makes online training especially appealing for those who don’t have access to a reliable form of transportation or who live far from major cities with training facilities that teach construction classes.
Those who have busy work schedules may not be able to attend live classes, whether they’re taught in-person or online. Instead, self-paced construction training offers them a flexible way to fit their training around full-time employment or other commitments. Some on-demand classes are even available for free from top educators like Udemy and Coursera. If necessary, learners can opt for multiple types of self-directed coursework to fill in their training and ensure they gain the skills needed to succeed as construction professionals. Some class options include self-paced bundle classes, online webinars, written tutorials, and YouTube videos.
Different Kinds of Online Training
If you’re interested in learning construction, you may be curious about what types of training options are available. Students can select from in-person classes, live online courses, and on-demand study options. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks to weigh before deciding which is best for you.
Learners who thrive in the traditional classroom environment will find in-person construction training the most interactive and engaging way to learn this skill set. Students attend class at a designated training facility located in or near a major city with computers with the most current software installed. An expert instructor with real-world construction experience leads each session and provides a supportive environment in which students can ask questions as they arise and receive immediate support. This training format requires that students have access to a reliable form of transportation and that they live relatively close to a training center.
One popular alternative to in-person construction training is live online study. This type of coursework is a good option for those who prefer live classes but don’t want to commute to and from meetings. All classes are taught remotely using a live teleconferencing platform like Zoom. Those enrolled can ask questions in the moment and even grant the instructor permission to share their screen if they need more individualized guidance on tricky concepts. The live training format allows students to connect with one another in real-time, which can add a sense of community and camaraderie during training. While live online study does require being able to attend classes that meet regularly, it eliminates the need to battle rush-hour traffic or waste time and money on parking.
Self-paced construction training is the most flexible way to learn this topic. Whereas live classes take place in real-time, self-paced classes are pre-recorded and placed online. Students can access them as their schedule permits and devote as little or as much time each day to their studies as they wish. On-demand training is available to learners at all levels, including those who have little or no prior construction training. Many top educators like Udemy and Coursera offer self-paced classes that range in length from just a few hours to several weeks or months. Some beginner-level programs are even available for free.
What Are the Advantages and Limitations of Online Training?
Online training affords learners flexibility that in-person study doesn’t: the opportunity to complete all coursework from any geographical location. This is an incentive for many learners, in particular those who would find it difficult, if not impossible, to attend classes that meet at a training facility. This includes people who live far from major cities, lack access to a car or public transportation, or may find commuting regularly prohibitive for other reasons.
Live online study offers participants many of the same learning outcomes as in-person training, including real-time access to an expert instructor and support from a cohort of learners. This can provide a sense of community during training and help students grasp the material in a supportive and interactive learning environment. Some providers offer the same construction classes in-person and live online so that students can select the type of training most suited to their scheduling needs or personal preferences. Learners interested in this training format should remember that live online programs still require that participants attend classes that are scheduled regularly, sometimes multiple times a week. For this reason, live online classes may be difficult for some individuals to attend such as those who work long hours or have personal or family commitments to balance alongside construction training.
On-demand classes differ from live courses in that they’re pre-recorded and delivered asynchronously. Each student can determine when it is best to complete their studies, as well as how long to spend on lessons each day and week. Unlike live training, in which the instructor determines the pacing of content, on-demand classes empower the student to take control of their speed of study. These classes are intended for self-motivated individuals who don’t need formal deadlines to complete lessons or incentivize them to practice the construction skills they’re learning. In order to get the most out of this type of training, students should be able to motivate themselves to study independently without a cohort or even a live instructor. While some learners appreciate this flexibility, others may find it difficult to complete their training, especially if it spans many weeks or months or if personal and professional obligations begin to vie for their time.
One of the major advantages of self-paced study is cost. Often, asynchronous classes are a more affordable training option than live study since they don’t include a live instructor. Learners can even find some self-paced, beginner-friendly training options available for free such as short courses and webinars. However, it is up to each learner to take the initiative in self-paced training to find answers to questions they have and seek clarification on complex construction topics. This can pose challenges for some students such as those who are new to construction and may not be able to articulate their questions quite yet, as well as advanced students interested in mastering complex construction topics for work-related reasons. These individuals may benefit more from live instruction at some point in their training.
Who Will Benefit the Most from Online Training
Although online training is a great option for most learners, it’s not for everyone. Before deciding whether this training format is a match for you, it’s important to ask yourself some essential questions.
If you’re considering live online study, you first should consider if your schedule permits you to attend class meetings. These usually take place regularly such as multiple times a week. Even though studies can be completed remotely, they still require that participants be able to carve out the necessary time to attend class. Those who have flexible job schedules, work part-time or are between careers may find it much easier to attend live classes than those who have full-time employment and busy personal lives.
Another essential consideration with all forms of online study is whether the learner has a stable internet connection and the tools needed to complete their training. Unlike in-person courses that take place at a training facility and provide students with computers, those who opt to study construction online will have to have their own study tools. Learners will need to have a quiet place to study, either at home or in an office, that has a strong internet connection. Additionally, they will need a computing device with any software or tools installed and ready to use. Those who don’t have a personal computer or who have spotty internet connection may find in-person classes a better option.
On-demand training doesn’t require attending classes that take place in real time. This type of study is often a good match for individuals who want to learn construction but aren’t able to take off work or rearrange their schedules to do so. Along with this additional flexibility in training comes the need for students to take more ownership and control over their studies. Since students won’t have formal deadlines or due dates for homework in this type of study, it’s up to them to make sure they carry through with their studies and practice the skills being taught. Learners who are self-motivated and able to learn independently benefit most from this kind of training. Those who prefer the support of a traditional classroom environment or live learning community may find it more difficult to learn construction through on-demand coursework.
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.