module specification

In this module, students will explore a broad range of analytical techniques and numerical methods to build the mathematical skills needed to solve basic construction, sustainability and built environment problems. It is also intended to provide the fundamentals for the analytical methods and mathematics needed for further study in Architectural Technology, Building Surveying, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management, and Real Estate disciplines. Students will be guided to gather, analyse, and present numerical data on a topic of interest to them in greater depth.

Upon completion of this module students will:
1. earn how to apply analytical methods to basic construction and practical engineering problems, such as algebra, basic trigonometry, graphical techniques, and fundamental laws of physics.

2. gather, compile, and analyse numerical data for statistical purposes on a topic of interest, including statistical analysis using tables and graphs and distribution theory.

3. determine resource requirements for construction projects and will perform calculations for project planning, estimation, prediction, cost analysis, and quality control.

4. present data and numerical information in various and appropriate formats.

5. be exposed to real life scenarios and case studies from professional practice to enable an understanding of integration of theory and practice into subject specialism.

The syllabus will include an exploration of the basic analytical methods used in the built environment, spanning multiple disciplines such as Construction, Engineering, Environmental Science, Sustainability, and Valuation. Students will develop the ability to perform numerical calculations and solve equations with appropriate accuracy for construction-related applications (LO1). This complexity can be overwhelming for students, especially those with limited prior knowledge in any of these areas.

Students will understand and apply basic statistical methods to address common problems (LO2) and will develop the mathematical skills to solve more complex problems in the built environment as encountered by industry professionals (LO3). Students will gain the basic skills to collect, analyse, and present data in a professional format (LO4).

Academic study skills are embedded throughout the syllabus and students will practise critically engaging with texts and producing work based on their reading and research (LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4).

Students will reflect on their learning journey and how this relates to their future career aspirations (LO4) and will present their findings to their cohort (LO4).

The module is delivered through lectures, seminars, one to one student contact, online tasks, and guided formative feedback sessions.  There will be also weeks where students will attend structured learning activities outside the classroom, such as site visits, exhibitions, and events, or will get guest lectures and classroom support from industry professionals to foster a practical application of the analytical methods and numerical concepts taught throughout the module.

Opportunities for self-reflection and PDP are core to the module, running through all teaching and learning strands, including content, class activities, informal and formal tutor and peer feedback, assessment, and independent study.

During the scheduled teaching time, such as lectures and seminars, student will be introduced step-by-step to the mathematical methods and their direct applications in the built environment. Students will engage in problem-solving exercises, discussions, and collaborative work that enhance their understanding of topics such as Quantitative Data Collection, Statistical Analysis, Graph Plotting, and Numerical Methods.

During independent study, students will review lecture materials, engage with bite-sized supplementary reading, practice mathematical problems, and apply techniques to real-world case studies. Independent study is crucial for developing proficiency in applying advanced mathematical tools to engineering problems, fostering analytical thinking, and deepening subject knowledge. It allows students to tailor their learning pace and approach, reinforcing the concepts introduced during scheduled sessions.

This balance encourages active participation in class while promoting confidence and personal development in using mathematical concepts, ensuring that students can independently solve complex problems in real-word challenges in the built environment.

AI/Gen-AI tools for the Built Environment whilst enhancing numerical and analytical research methods
In this module, students will be introduced to basic digital and AI tools to help them build confidence in using maths in real-world contexts. Workshops will explore beginner-friendly applications such as Microsoft Excel, simple calculators, and AI platform to support everyday problem-solving. These will be used for tasks like calculating areas, estimating materials, analysing simple data, and understanding measurements used in construction and environmental design. Activities will be based on real-life examples from the built environment, helping students see how maths applies to buildings, energy use, and planning.

Alongside this, students will begin developing key academic research skills. They will learn how to search for and evaluate information, use AI-assisted research tools to support their work, and bring ideas together from different sources. A key part of this will be learning to critique outputs generated by Gen-AI tools, thus questioning their accuracy, reliability, and relevance. This critical thinking will help students understand the difference between AI-generated content and trustworthy academic or industry sources, supporting good research practices and academic integrity.
These skills will be developed further through guided research tasks, group discussions, and tutor feedback. Online support through WebLearn will provide step-by-step resources, while guest speakers and site visits will show how maths and digital tools are used in real built environment professions.

On completion of this module students should be able to:

1. perform numerical calculations, mathematical functions and equations used in the construction and built environment to an appropriate level of accuracy.

2. apply suitable mathematical techniques and analytical methods to solve built environment and construction problems.

3. apply statistics to basic construction and sustainability problems.

4. learn how to gather, analyse and present data on a topic of interest related to their subject area.

FY3001 Applied Mathematics in the Built Environment | London Metropolitan University