Artificial Intelligence and Simulated Virtual Models in Teaching Construction Courses

Artificial intelligence (AI) and simulated virtual models (SVMs) have influenced construction practices by making activities safer, error-free, efficient, cost-effective, high quality, connected, and transparent. With significant advancements, it is anticipated that new courses will be needed to familiarize students with applicable AI and SVMs. A course to introduce AI and SVMs was offered at a state university, but the students requested a more visual and hands-on approach to establish connections between real-world engineering challenges and AI. A ride-on excavator toy was converted into a robot replicating real-world excavator operations of pick-up dirt and dumping at a specific location. In addition, a 3D simulation SVMs was developed for enhancing teaching learning. The use of the robot as a hands-on tool created significant interest in civil engineering and computer engineering students. The learning experience was captured through a structured questionnaire survey, and the analysis shows higher levels of student interest in learning AI applications for construction.