Abstract:

The building and construction industry are an important part of the EU economy and society. It contributes to about 9% of the EU's GDP (Gross Domestic Product) and provides around 18 million direct jobs, It also creates high-skill jobs and investment in other industries that leads to further social and economic benefits[1].

There are two importants challenges to address in the sector. One is related to the increasing implementation of ICT (Information & Communication Technologies) tools, while the other is associated with a greater requirement of managerial and collective skills brought by the changing profile of the sector [2].

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is disrupting the sector. This tool provides all stakeholders with a digital representation of a building's characteristics throughout its entire life-cycle and thereby holds out the promise of large efficiency gains. BIM is being rapidly adopted, so it is critical for public bodies and industries that sector maximises its value to deliver improved efficiencies and increased innovation in the management, design, construct and operation phases of a built asset [3]. Training the current and incoming workforce is necessary to ensure effective adoption of BIM.

The demand of public and private environments adapted to the needs of older adults ies expected to grow in the coming years. By 2050, the number of people in the EU aged 65 and above is expected to grow by 70% and the number of people 80 by 170%. Despite living longer, EU citizens will spend too many years in old age in environments conceived for younger and healthier people, creating dependency, isolation and mental health problems [5]. Being physical and social environments key determinants for people to remain healthy and autonomous into their old age [6], [7].

In this context, the use of BIM in the design, construction and management of multifunctional indoor envirionments will greatly contribute to meet the requirements of Europe's ageing population while promoting healthy and safe ageing. The main aim of ESSENSE is to develop and implement a common curriculum and learning approach on BIM towards the design, construction and management of public and private environments for older adults that will meet the learning needs of Higher Education students. These will be relevant to the labour market and societal needs of an ageing society.

ESSENSE will offer innovative educational tools to Higher Education students and experts from building-related fields that are aligned with the future needs of society and with the opportunities that the implementation of Smart Housing and Ambient Assisted Living principles and concepts that BIM processes can bring.

References:
[1] https://ec.europa.eu/growth/sectors/construction_en
[2] Skill Panorama, Analytical Highlights, Focus on Construction. March 2014.
[3] Martin Poljanšek, BIM Standardization, 2017.
[4] https://ec.europa.eu/health-eu/my_health/elderly/index_en.htm
[5] N, Tram & J, Wadoux. Working and Living: Age-friendly environments in the EU. 2016.
[6] World Health Organization. Active ageing: A Policy Framework.2002
[7] World Health Organization. Global Age-friendly Cities: A Guide. 2005.

Keywords:

Building Information Modelling, Smart Housing, Ambient Assisted Living, Sensors, Elderly, Seniors, ageing, dependency.