Introduction

The reading of construction blueprints is a foundational skill in construction.   All construction professionals, regardless of whether they are working in the field or in the office, must know how to read blueprints.   Blueprint reading is not terribly difficult but it does require practice and some basic knowledge of blueprints. This course is designed to provide you with that foundational knowledge and enough practice at reading blueprints to get you started.    Mastery of blueprint reading will come with practice and with using blueprints on the job on a regular basis.

Learning objectives

By the end of this class you should:

• Have an elementary knowledge of blueprint reading as it relates to building construction projects. 
• Understand in general terms the design process and the role of design professionals.
• Be able to find trade information using blueprints.
• Be able to answer basic construction questions related to the layout and installation of materials at the jobsite.
• Be able to identify elementary problems or short comings of the blueprints you are using.

The Textbook

Understanding Construction Drawings with 22 Drawings 4th Edition, by Mark W. Huth, Walter G. Wells (Paperback - 2004) included with registration.

Class Organization

The following table lists the learning modules, the maximum value in points a student can receive within each module, and the time in which the modules must be finished.

It is important that the student keep up with the class and not fall behind.   Course modules will be made available to students on Saturday of each week.  Class work must be completed by the following Saturday.   Students will not be able to work ahead of the class although reading assignments will be made available in advance.   Actual dates that modules will become available will be posted in advance on the course calendar.

Student Learning Assessment

Graded assignments will consist of one quiz for each module and participation in two class discussions.   Each quiz will count 10 points and class discussions will count 15 points.  You can take quizzes twice and use the highest score achieved as your final quiz grade.
Class discussions are a very important part of this course.  Students learn more and learn better when they discuss the topic at hand.  For that reason, I consider the regular weekly discussions to be even more important than the weekly quizzes. Grades will be posted on a weekly basis.   You will have full access to your grade sheet so you will be able to keep track of how you are doing at all times.

Withdrawal Policy

You may withdraw from this course by sending an email to cmiller@aacei.org or by conventional mail requesting to be dropped from the course. Non-attendance or notifying the instructor does not constitute officially dropping or withdrawing from a course. Students who stop attending courses without officially dropping will receive a grade of U in the class. Refunds are not automatic. NO refunds are due unless the course is officially dropped within stated guidelines in the refund schedule.

Refund Schedule

Registration

Tuition: $600 / $500 (Nonmember / AACE member)

Click here to REGISTER ONLINE or DOWNLOAD the Print & Mail, Fax or Email form.