Abstract
Construction projects approach design in different ways. While many consider design as the final built elements, the building process itself is often neglected. Construction projects contain intermittent operations that should be designed as well. This design is considerably different from conventional product design since the operation, without construction, is not tangible for students. Construction projects typically consist of many different activities occurring at different stages. In addition, uncertainty is an inseparable attribute of any construction project, which may result in project failure. These complex problems require a systematic solutions, which is a difficult task for novice designers. This study aims to develop a framework based on systems thinking, which not only helps students to understand components of the construction process, but also assists them in dealing with uncertainty, its sources, and its impacts. We suggest that the systemic problem framing of a project enhances the undergraduate construction students' understanding of construction activities and persuades them to take into account different factors which may cause variations in the project.