The Digital Decathlon

Abstract

The “Digital Decathlon” Erasmus+ project addresses the critical need for digital and green transitions in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) sector by proposing an innovative approach for higher education. The project aims to prepare the next generation of professionals through a BIM-based design competition, designed as a novelty learning/gaming pathway for university students. By engaging participants from diverse countries and related academic backgrounds, the project fosters collaborative workflows and interdisciplinary teamwork by adopting a digital and gamified approach, providing hands-on learning and design experience. This paper presents the conceptual framework, methodologies and materials defining the prototypical learning format, which integrates online learning resources and tools, collaboration and mentoring, subject to a quality assessment for improvement and replication. Overall, the Digital Decathlon contributes to the advancement of educational methods necessary to address current challenges and to create the digitalised and sustainable built environment of tomorrow.