2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Recent technological innovations have altered the construction industry's perception from being conservative in adopting technologies to implementing and providing promising solutions. These can be various tasks in the construction fields, including aerial photogrammetry, job site productivity, inventory tracking, site logistics, safety inspection, visualization, progress tracking, and structural condition inspection. Emerging technology such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, were initially developed for military purposes, but it has made a successful technology transition to the construction industry. Currently, the applications of UAVs in the construction industry have significantly increased due to several proven advantages such as cost-effectiveness, productivity, safety, and flexible operation. Still, a significant level of relevant knowledge in computer, electrical, and mechanical engineering technology is required beyond the traditional topic area. Although engineering technology education has introduced UAVs and 3D scanner technologies in classrooms to accommodate this movement, there is no systematic process and learning tools that construction engineering technology educators can utilize. The paper details the basics of emerging technologies and proposes a preliminary matrix through learning outcomes from various accreditation bodies. The paper also explains the steps required to implement UAVs and 3D scanners into construction education by reviewing multiple industry case studies. In addition, the research identifies the challenges and effectiveness of utilizing these technologies in classroom education through educators' perspectives