Course Syllabus
Overview
Description
The purpose of this course is to provide an introduction to contract law and the legal requirements and regulations associated with the operation of a construction company and execution of construction projects.
2 credits
Outcomes
- Be able to analyze and evaluate persuasive and legal arguments.
- Apply principles of ethics to construction.
- Understand and apply principles of contract law such as specifications and plans, changes to the contract, contract termination, delay and acceleration, differing and unforeseen site conditions, warranties, joint liability and indemnity, and bankruptcy.
- Know the difference between contract law and tort law and how tort situations affect construction firms.
- Successfully engage in and obtain desired results from difficult conversations.
Program Message
This course prepares students to recognize and resolve legal and ethical challenges in construction project delivery. It supports the Construction Management program’s mission by developing critical thinking, professional judgment, and ethical decision-making in real-world scenarios.
Instructor
Mike Sessions
Best way to contact me is by email: sessionsm@byui.edu
Requirements
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Materials
Required materials are available in the Course Materials List.
| Resource Title/Description | Author/Provider | Ed./Vol | ISBN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Critical Thinking (2nd Edition) | Moore & Parker | 2 | 9780078119057 |
| Principles and Practices of Construction Law | Nancy J. White | 1 | 9780135000044 |
Technology
Structure
Learning Model
This course implements the BYU-I Learning Model by requiring students to prepare through reading and quizzes, teach one another through discussions and collaborative assignments, and prove understanding via assessments and analysis of case studies. Emphasis is placed on spiritual integration and ethical application.
Major Assignments
Major assignments align with course outcomes and include:
| Major Assignment | Description | Course Outcome # |
|---|---|---|
| Case Study Analysis | Students evaluate legal case scenarios using critical thinking tools and legal reasoning strategies. | 1, 3, 4 |
| Ethics Scenario Discussions | Students engage with case-based ethical dilemmas in discussion forums and apply ethical frameworks. | 2 |
| Contract Law Simulations | Students analyze and apply principles of contract formation, changes, delays, and termination through interactive scenario-based exercises. | 3 |
| Dispute Resolution Activities | Students engage with concepts and activities related to negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation based on assigned readings and video materials. | 5 |
| Final Exam | Cumulative exam covering all learning outcomes. | All |
Expectations
Feedback
Feedback and grades will be provided within 7 days of submission.
Workload
Plan 6–8 hours per week. Weekly activities include reading, quizzes, discussions, and assignments.
Online Etiquette
Be respectful and professional in all online communication. Participate thoughtfully and cite sources where appropriate.
Grading
Course grading is weighted by category as follows:
- Preparation Quizzes: 40%
- Assignments/Case Studies: 35%
- Final Exam: 25%
Grading Scale
| 93–100% | A | 90–92% | A- | 87–89% | B+ |
| 83–86% | B | 80–82% | B- | 77–79% | C+ |
| 73–76% | C | 70–72% | C- | 67–69% | D+ |
| 63–66% | D | 60–62% | D- | <60% | F |
Late Work
Late work may be accepted at the instructor’s discretion. Communicate early if problems arise.
University Policies
All BYU-I students should be familiar with the following policies:
- The Church Education System (CES) Honor Code
- Academic Honesty
- Sexual Harassment PolicyLinks to an external site.
- FERPALinks to an external site.
For other policies, see BYU-Idaho Policy LibraryLinks to an external site..
Students with Disabilities
Brigham Young University-Idaho is committed to providing a working and learning atmosphere that accommodates qualified persons with disabilities. If you have a disability and require accommodations, please contact the Accessibility Services OfficeLinks to an external site. at (208) 496-9210 or visit their website and follow the Steps for Receiving AccommodationsLinks to an external site.. Reasonable academic accommodations are reviewed for all students who have qualified documented disabilities. Services are coordinated with students and instructors by the Disability Services Office.
[This course may require synchronous meetings. OR This course includes required synchronous meetings.] If you are currently registered with the Disability Services Office and need an interpreter or transcriber for these meetings, please contact the deaf and hard of hearing coordinator at (208) 496-9219.
Disclaimer
The instructor reserves the right to change any part of this syllabus during the semester to adapt to changing course needs. You will be notified before any changes take place.
Materials in this BYU-Idaho online course and related sites may be protected by U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S. Code). These materials are only for students enrolled in this course for purposes associated with this course and may not be further disseminated. For more information, please visit www.byui.edu/copyrightLinks to an external site..
Course Summary:
| Date | Details | Due |
|---|---|---|