Balancing changes to construction education in the 21st century: exploring the challenges construction educators face in Australia

University education for construction professionals is currently facing enormous challenges. In addition to the current global financial crisis there are increased pressures from within universities as well as from industry and accrediting institutions. An Australian Learning and Teaching Council (ALTC) grant has provided an opportunity to review construction education. The project investigated issues via an online survey of full-time academic staff, and face-to-face interviews and focus groups with staff and students. This paper explores the pressures and opportunities identified in these investigations. It highlights some of the challenges construction disciplines face and identifies changes that should improve teaching and learning.