Improving Estimating Competency Through Experiential Learning Projects in Construction Management Education

10 pages•Published: July 23, 2025

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of a two-phase experiential learning project in Construction Management (CM) education. In phase one, Computer Information Systems (CIS) students developed an estimation database using historical data from three Massachusetts schools. In phase two, CM students applied this tool alongside traditional estimation methods for the Florence Roache Elementary School Project. Twenty CM students each produced three independent estimates using the student-developed MIS Estimator, MSBA Bid Results Data, and RS Means Square Foot Estimator. Analysis against AACE International Class 4 accuracy standards (-15% to +30%) showed the MIS Estimator and MSBA achieved mean differences of -13.96% and -26.42%, respectively from the Florence Roche Feasibility Study PSR (Preferred Schematic Report) Probable Cost Estimate, while RS Means (-67.65%) exceeded recommended variance limits. Student performance in conceptual estimating showed marked improvement, with final exam scores increasing from a three-year historical average of 75.16% (2021-2023) to 97.7% in 2024. The findings demonstrate the potential of incorporating student-developed tools in construction education while highlighting areas for future refinement in estimating pedagogy.

Keyphrases: construction education, database development, estimating, experiential learning, interdisciplinary collaboration

In: Wesley Collins, Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico (editors). Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference, vol 6, pages 51-60.

Links:	https://easychair.org/publications/paper/86xF
	https://doi.org/10.29007/xs88

BibTeX entry

@inproceedings{ASC2025:Improving_Estimating_Competency_Through,
  author    = {Sharon Brown and Hollis Greenberg},
  title     = {Improving Estimating Competency Through Experiential Learning Projects in Construction Management Education},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference},
  editor    = {Wesley Collins and Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico},
  series    = {EPiC Series in Built Environment},
  volume    = {6},
  publisher = {EasyChair},
  bibsource = {EasyChair, https://easychair.org},
  issn      = {2632-881X},
  url       = {/publications/paper/86xF},
  doi       = {10.29007/xs88},
  pages     = {51-60},
  year      = {2025}}

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