The Construction department goes viral

Hugh Baird (@hughbaird) College’s Course Leader in Construction Multi Skills, David Manley, has recently taken his virtual learning one step further by creating his own YouTube channel.

The channel features ‘how-to’ videos specifically for his students to ensure they don’t miss out on the practical elements of their course. Brickwork and The Built Environment students have really benefited from this new way of learning.

The content filmed by David, features real working practices and activities from mid-size and new development construction sites.

The videos give learners a real understanding of the practical elements associated with their trade and how these techniques can be put into practice. During the live videos, students are encouraged to join in at home and can ask questions throughout.

The videos demonstrate a range of skills, including David physically building a timber frame construction system and a new build large extension using survey equipment, large plant-excavators and dumpers.

The decision to create his own YouTube channel came due to David wanting to make the most out of the current situation and the demand for virtual learning that has increased during the pandemic. It also gave David the opportunity to upskill the learners ensuring they are receiving the most current up-to-date practices. 

David said:

“Even before the pandemic, I have felt that the construction trade qualifications have been somewhat ‘lagging behind’ in terms of utilising modern teaching methods, new ideas, resources and technologies. I feel the current situation is an ideal time to move forward and bring in new ways of making these courses and learning more interesting, immersive, and interactive.”

“I feel my learners have gained inspiration from seeing their own tutor, performing jobs on site that one day they could be working on.”