Despite the near ubiquity of 3-D modeling and building information management (BIM) software packages in the architecture, construction, and restoration industries, potential employers have continuously expressed concern that graduating students are not adequately prepared to operate some of these BIM software packages (Harris, 2014). Exposing students to construction methods via software used in the field may help to soften the transition from the classroom to the industry. Consequently, the authors proposed the use of fully-developed 3-D models, based on accurate data, as an instructional tool which may simultaneously achieve three goals: (1) Improve the facility with which the students use common software tools; (2) develop knowledge of construction processes and techniques, both historical and contemporary; and (3) expand students' knowledge of architectural and engineering history.
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