2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Integrating AI Chatbot Development in Construction Engineering and Management Education

Presented at Construction Engineering Division: AI & Automation

The construction industry is undergoing a significant digital transformation, with generative artificial intelligence (AI) enhancing efficiency, precision, and decision-making. However, construction engineering and management (CEM) education lacks hands-on AI implementation opportunities. This study addresses this gap by developing and implementing a novel assignment where 78 undergraduate and graduate students developed custom AI chatbots for construction tasks using no-code platforms.

The methodology combined video tutorials, hands-on activities, and peer reviews. Students created AI chatbots to automate quantity takeoff calculations and deployed them on personal websites. Graduate students completed an additional independent assignment with minimal guidance. Effectiveness was evaluated through peer reviews, discussion boards, and pre- and post-assignment surveys.

Results showed significant improvements in students’ understanding of AI technology, construction cost estimation, and AI integration. Peer reviews highlighted the chatbots’ accuracy, functionality, input handling, and problem-solving capabilities. Students found the assignment moderately easy and highly relevant to their careers. Discussion board analysis provided insights into student challenges, AI perceptions, and chatbot improvements. The end-of-course survey reinforced the effectiveness of combining in-class activities with video tutorials for teaching new technologies.

This study contributes to CEM education by providing a practical framework for hands-on AI implementation. It makes advanced technology accessible without requiring extensive programming knowledge while addressing real-world construction challenges. The validated assignment materials, available online (https://www.electriai.com/electriai-lab/asee25-chatbot), offer a scalable model for integrating emerging technologies into CEM curricula. These findings highlight the potential of structured AI education in preparing future construction professionals for a technology-driven industry.

Authors

Dr. Anh D. Chau P.E. http://orcid.org/0000-0002-1830-1026 Florida Gulf Coast University [biography]

Dr. Anh D. Chau is an assistant professor in the Stock Development Department of Construction Management at the U.A. Whitaker College of Engineering, Florida Gulf Coast University. He completed his Bachelor of Engineering at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and his M.S. and Ph.D. at the University of Alabama, all in civil engineering. His areas of expertise include quantitative methods, construction engineering education, and artificial intelligence applications. He is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the state of Florida and has also earned certifications as a Project Management Professional (PMP) and LEED AP BD+C.
Mr. Cade M. Cratsley Florida Gulf Coast University [biography]

Mr. Cade M. Cratsley is an undergraduate student pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering at Florida Gulf Coast University. He is a member of the ElectriAI+ Lab, led by Dr. Chau, where he actively contributes to research on the application of artificial intelligence in the construction industry. Beyond his academic endeavors, Cade demonstrates his leadership and organizational skills as a food service manager at Five Guys, showcasing a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence in both his academic and professional settings.
Dr. Long Duy Nguyen P.E. http://orcid.org/https://0000-0002-1879-8327 Florida Gulf Coast University [biography]

Dr. Long Nguyen is a Professor and Chair of Stock Development Department of Construction Management at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU).

Note

The full paper will be available to logged in and registered conference attendees once the conference starts on June 22, 2025, and to all visitors after the conference ends on June 25, 2025

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