BIM concepts integration in academic education: a cross-section analysis

Building information modelling –better known as BIM- is revolutionizing the way professionals conceive and manage building design and landscape analysis and planning. In the last twenty years, the architectural and engineering sectors have witnessed even larger integration processes of BIM into day-by-day practice. This movement stimulates higher education institutions to readdress programs and courses to shape future specialized professionals able to master the concepts and functionalities of BIM. In this paper, we present the outcomes of a cross-section analysis of the attitude and preparedness of Italian university departments of agricultural sciences. We gather information through a harvest of questionnaires completed by professors belonging to the scientific sector AGRI-04/C Rural buildings and agroforestry territory. Results suggest a picture compatible with emerging countries adopting BIM, where a general attitude toward BIM-led educational innovation is not always mirrored by institutional commitment, specific awareness, and operational action.