Overview
Dive into the world of sustainable building design! We'll crack the code on operational versus embodied carbon – understanding the environmental impact of a building's energy use and the hidden carbon cost of its materials. We’ll discover the power of Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) – an essential tool for slashing embodied carbon emissions. We'll explore how to choose eco-friendly materials like bio-based wonders and recycled steel and unlock the secret benefits of using wood in construction. Finally, we'll champion the importance of sourcing materials close to home and ensuring ethical production.
You will define and differentiate operational and embodied carbon emissions, gaining insights into the significance of a circular built environment. Life cycle assessments will be examined for evaluating sustainability at various stages of a building's life. Identification of materials with low carbon emissions or carbon sequestration properties, along with an evaluation of wood and engineered wood products as alternatives, will form a crucial part of the curriculum.
Practical application of knowledge will be emphasized using a virtual building as a learning tool. The course involves critical analysis of case studies and real-world examples, providing insights into buildings that prioritize energy efficiency and low carbon materials. This course explores:
- Building with Low Embodied Carbon Materials
- Building the Case for Mass Timber
- Designing for Prefabrication
- Building with Low Embodied Carbon Materials
Ultimately, you will gain a holistic understanding of the multifaceted approaches and best practices in energy-efficient building design, preparing you to be an effective contributor to sustainable and low-carbon construction projects.
How It Works
Course Length
90 days
Effort
10 - 12 hours
Delivery
Online, On-Demand
Instruction
Self-paced
Cost
$600
- Architects: Registered architects or architects-in-training seeking to expand their knowledge and skills in creating more sustainable and resilient buildings.
- Engineers with technical diplomas or with bachelor’s degrees seeking to deepen their understanding of how buildings function as complex systems and how their designs can impact the environment and communities.
- Construction Professionals with high school and some post-secondary training seeking to implement sustainable and energy-efficient building practices and design principles
Dr. Douglas MacLeod, PhD
Over the last 30 years, Dr. Douglas MacLeod, FRAIC, has been creating visionary projects that have transformed the arts, architecture, and education - from pioneering work in virtual reality at the Banff Centre to eduSourceCanada, the country’s largest e-learning initiative to date.
A registered architect, he is currently the Chair of the Centre for Architecture at Athabasca University – an online program that has quickly grown to be one of the largest and most innovative in the world. MacLeod is also a contributing editor to Canadian Architect Magazine and the former Executive Director of the Canadian Design Research Network. He is also a former Associate with Barton Myers Associates, Los Angeles.
Trevor Butler, P. Eng, C.Eng
Trevor is an architectural engineer with over 27 years of experience in the AEC sector. He specializes in a creative, whole-systems approach to building design and development, delivering innovative engineering solutions that make significant strides towards energy neutrality and regenerativity.
Veronica, M.Arch, B.E.D.S., B.Arch.Sc.
Veronica Madonna is an Assistant Professor at the RAIC Centre for Architecture. She is an award-winning Canadian Architect with over 17 years of experience working with leading architectural firms. She is licensed with the Ontario Association of Architects, and is a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada.
Throughout her academic experience, Veronica has taught architectural Design both in-person and online. At Athabasca University, she has been teaching students globally for over five years through virtual practices. Her teaching methodology focuses on creating inclusive and collaborative environments, seeking tools and open resources to help support education and enhance the experience. She is one of the Global Studio key members, working to support equity and diversity in architectural education and is developing a global mentoring network for students and young professionals in the architectural industry.
Henry Tsang, OAQ, MRAIC, LEED GA, WELL AP
Dr. Henry Tsang is an award-winning architect and assistant professor in the RAIC Centre for Architecture at Athabasca University. His Design, teaching and research work explores the intersections between sustainability, health, and culture in the built environment. He teaches the virtual design studios and coordinates courses in the communication, professional, theory, history, and technical streams.
Tsang is the principal of Henry Tsang Architect based in Calgary, AB. Cumulating over 15 years of global experience in practice, he has designed a diverse portfolio of environment, health, and community-centric projects, which include the University of Indonesia Health Sciences Campus and the Calgary Japanese Community Centre. He has edited and contributed to several books including the latest edition of the Canadian Handbook of Practice for Architects.
Jessica Williams, BArch.Sc.
Jessica Bree Williams graduated from Athabasca University with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture in 2022. Since graduating, she has worked on projects with Athabasca on education and housing, as well as becoming an intern architect with Mindful Architecture. She is currently pursuing a Master of Architecture degree at Boston Architectural College where her work focuses on regenerative Design and inclusivity.
Course FAQs
Is this an instructor-led course?
This course is designed to be self-paced with all materials you need for successful completion contained within the learning platform. The course has been designed by subject matter experts and includes interviews with leading experts, aligned to the course outcomes. The course is an immersive experience that includes a mix of content including video introductions and video content, impactful readings, learning checks, and interactive elements – all which can be completed at your own pace.
How much time will I need to spend?
The course is structured to be completed at your own pace within a two-week period. You will be spending approximately 8 - 10 hours of time per week on content. You will have access to the learning environment for 90 days in order to refer back to course material. After 90 days, the course will be closed.
Do I have to be online at a certain time of day?
No, you do not have to be online at a specific time. You complete the coursework at the times and places that fits your schedule. Each course is designed for working professionals who are balancing their work, family and community commitments.
When do I start?
You can start the course as soon as you register! You will automatically be directed to the interactive learning environment.
How long will I have access to the course?
You will have 90 days from the time of registration to complete the course. It is recommended to complete the course in two weeks.
What is the refund policy?
No refunds will be issued for courses. Refunds may be considered under exceptional circumstances on a case-by-case basis. Please contact powered@athabascau.ca for more information.
Are there tests or quizzes involved?
There will be activities, assignments, and short quizzes within the course to ensure you understand the content. All quizzes are designed to be accessible and easy to complete by engaging in the course content. Within each module, you will have the answers to each evaluation.
What are the computer requirements for this course?
You should have access to a Mac, PC, or tablet with an Internet connection, with Safari, Chrome, Microsoft Edge or Firefox as a browser. Here is a link that outlines browser support:
https://documentation.brightspace.com/EN/brightspace/requirements/all/browser_support.htm
For virtual sessions:
- Speakers/headphones
- Web camera and microphone
Learners that want to use their smart phone to access the courses can also download the D2L Pulse App for free to access the course available on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.d2l.brightspace.student.android&hl=en_CA
Or the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/brightspace-pulse/id1001688546
Does this course have prerequisites?
This course does not have a required prerequisite.
Who do I contact if I need help?
You can contact powered@athabascau.ca for assistance with any questions you may have. We are here to help!