How to Teach Construction Technology
Degrees and education aren't a requirement for working in the construction field as new employees can learn the trade through on-the-job training. Some contractors and employers don't have the time to teach new personnel all the different skills that go into building a structure, though, which is why a construction training program can be beneficial. Individuals with experience in the construction field can serve as instructors for these programs as long as they know how to teach all aspects of construction technology.
Instructions
-
-
1
Start with the basics. Before students can begin constructing buildings and structures, they must know the fundamentals. Teach them how to use a tape measure as well as how to read construction blueprints.
-
2
Provide safety training. Either the school or the student needs to supply certain safety equipment such as protective hearing devices and safety glasses. In addition, students need to be instructed in proper safety protocol before ever leaving the classroom to work on the construction site.
-
-
3
Teach them how to operate basic construction equipment. Drills, handsaws and buffers are just some of the power tools used on a construction site. Students should know how to safely operate any equipment they may use.
-
4
Create a project for students to build. A storage shed, garage or house is a great project for students to build as they learn construction technology. This allows them the opportunity to try out what they are learning in class and, for some, makes it much more interesting, because they can see how the information learned in the classroom applies to the real world.
-
5
Teach employability skills to students. Construction companies no longer look just at construction knowledge and experience in prospective employees. Many just want people who will show up every day on time and are willing to work hard. Make students accountable by having them punch in every day and dock their grade after they've been absent or tardy a preset number of times.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
One way to make construction courses safer is to limit the number of students in the class. This allows the instructor to watch and monitor a more manageable number of students and be more available to step in if they see a problem. When teaching a basic construction class, invite guest speakers to present on topics outside general construction, such as plumbing, electrical systems and roofs. Adopt the curriculum and standards developed by the National Center for Construction Education and Research, as more and more construction-industry leaders are using these standards when hiring employees.
