A REVIEW OF THE CURRICULUM OF QUANTITY SURVEYING OF AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY ZARIA TO THE MODERN CHALLENGES OF THE PROFESSION. A RESEARCH PROJECT MATERIAL ON QUANTITY AND SURVEYING

posted on October 3, 2018

A REVIEW OF THE CURRICULUM OF QUANTITY SURVEYING OF AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY ZARIA TO THE MODERN CHALLENGES OF THE PROFESSION. A RESEARCH PROJECT MATERIAL ON QUANTITY AND SURVEYING

ABSTRACT

This paper seeks to review the current curriculum of Quantity Surveying of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in tackling the modern challenges posed to the profession by the changing nature of the construction industry. Literatures reviewed shows that technological advancement and the complex nature of clients’ needs are some of the major factors causing these changes. The study is carried out via literature reviews and an interview survey with practicing Quantity Surveying Professionals. The result shows that the current Quantity Surveying curriculum cannot be categorized as totally insufficient for training students in the undergraduate Quantity Surveying programme of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Little modification is required to put the curriculum at a higher standard.

The research reveals that bid security and performance bond are important areas of the Quantity Surveying profession and hence, should be an integral part of the undergraduate Quantity Surveying curriculum. In addition, internet studies should also form part of the curriculum. The research also shows that natural sciences should be given more attention in the curriculum of Quantity Surveying given that it helps Quantity Surveyors to think logically and it also helps them in areas of Engineering Works.

CHAPTER ONE

Introduction

Background of the study

Trisa (2004) mentioned that change is the dominant factor of the society today. It is in this line that Ashworth & Hogg (2007), Nkado, and Hasmawati and Johan all asserted that the construction industry is changing and the Quantity Surveying professional status quo is no longer applied to the challenges brought by the changes. Matzdorf, et al (1997) explains further by asserting that the Quantity Surveying profession is facing threats to its traditional roles and functions as a result of the changing client needs in the construction industry. Ashworth & Hogg (2007) went further to assert that if the profession did not adapt to change then it will not exist in the future. Due to rapid changes and diversification in both the profession and the construction industry, it has become more important to produce well qualified and competent graduates to meet the challenges of the profession. Anago (2006) in her paper “the Quantity Surveyor and road map to the future” contended that ‘our basic education and training should be an enhanced package of our current core competencies decorated with knowledge ‘pouched’ or acquired from professions/discipline.’ Education is one of the critical factors in the success or failure of the construction industry. Education is the backbone of the development of the innate potential of an individual. Knowledge, skills and belief (philosophy as end product of education) are acquired and developed through teaching and learning. The philosophy of professional disciplines acquired and developed at higher educational institutions goes a long way to determine the professional outcomes. (Olukayode, 2006).