Present realities and future directions of AI integration within built environment higher education

Abstract

Technological advancements in the construction industry driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI), mandate a significant re-evaluation of Built Environment Higher Education (BEHE). While the imperative for AI integration within BEHE is acknowledged, it remains underexplored. This study aims to identify the potential for AI integration within BEHE and assess its capacity to enhance the readiness of HE learners, trainers and the institutions to cater to the evolving demands. Data was collected through a literature review and nine semi-structured interviews among academics and industry practitioners across HE, construction, information technology, and manufacturing sectors of UK to identify current status quo of AI applications within BEHE, and potential integration of best practices from other sectors. Data was thematically analysed using NVivo14. The results show that the effective adoption of AI technology yields efficient outcomes in student learning, teaching efficacy, administrative processes including mentoring, inclusivity, quality assurance, research and entrepreneurship. The findings demonstrate that BEHE has not fully attained the effective utilisation of AI integration in its curriculum, capacity development is needed in pedagogical approaches, learning methodologies, and policy formulation. A successful achievement of these goals necessitates proactive stakeholder engagement and robust top-down support, including substantial investment in IT infrastructure, training and comprehensive dedication at individual, institutional and national policy levels.