![Dr Don Samarasinghe staff profile picture](/massey/fms/expertise/user_images/profile_225415_2C49A598-CE81-4CE4-AE1D4021F8E30CA2.jpg)
Contact details +6492136259
Dr Don Samarasinghe BSc (Hons) Civil Eng, GDTE, PhD, MCIOB, PMI
Senior Lecturer in Built Environment
Doctoral Supervisor School of Built EnvironmentI am a highly enthusiastic research and education professional with a passion for developing and unleashing the potential of tertiary students. I have a strong background in the development and delivery of quality technical learning, including Construction Technology, Building Services, Digital Built Environment, Construction Project Management and Property Development, for a range of tertiary institutions in New Zealand. My teaching philosophy is driven by Experiential Learning, where students learn through reflection on doing. I have conducted collaborative and interdisciplinary research projects and extensively published in the areas of construction technology, supply chain management and experiential learning in construction education. I have a range of academic qualifications including a PhD in Construction Management, a Bachelor of the Science of Civil Engineering (First-Class Honours), and a Graduate Diploma in Tertiary Education (GDTE).
During my PhD studies, I published widely on building materials supply chains. After gaining my doctorate, I started researching on improving supply chain performance through construction innovation. My research projects are interdisciplinary and collaborative, across disciplines such as construction innovation, IT/advanced technologies, supply chain management and construction education. I am a high performing team member who conducts collaborative research projects that connect to the community and the construction industry. I recently developed a VR-based sustainable building model with IT and Management colleagues, and the project outcomes were published by IEEE and Springer Cham, Switzerland. One of my recent publications includes a book chapter titled Innovative Digital Technologies in the New Zealand Construction Industry in the book Driving Transformational Change in the Digital Built Environment, edited by Jason Underwood and Mark Shelbourn from the University of Salford, UK. I would like to further expand my research into effective building design and maintenance practices, focusing on ways stakeholders in a building materials supply chain could collaborate to create sustainable buildings. Additional research interests are in the wider areas of construction education, experiential learning, reflective practice, improving employability through learner capability development and effective assessment practices.
I have written widely on construction technology (innovative digital technologies, HVAC, BIM and VR), supply chain management, and experiential learning in construction education. I have experience applying for both internal and external research funding (e.g. a CoRE research project proposal led by Massey University).
My current postgraduate supervision projects include QA/QC in modular fabrication, prefabrication skills shortage and design changes in EPC projects in NZ construction. I have extensive experience in curriculum design, delivery, assessment and moderation in the New Zealand tertiary education sector. This includes developing qualifications such as Bachelor of Construction, Graduate Diploma/Master of Professional Practice in Construction Management. I have taught (both face-to-face and online) papers such as Construction Technology, Building Services, Construction Innovation, Design Buildability & BIM, Programming, Quality Assurance and Site Safety, Value Management, Procurement and Tendering, Property Development and Research Project. I effectively engage with the industry by conducting construction site visits and participating in professional development activities through NZIOB, ENZ, CIOB, PMI, NZGBC, EBANZ and EBAA.
My work spans the study of people in the built environment, workforce development, and the health and safety of the construction workforce. I focus on including Māori in New Zealand's construction industry, advocating for greater representation. Additionally, I explore upskilling in innovative technologies, stakeholder management in construction supply chains, and construction education. My research also includes leadership in construction projects, 3D printing as a sustainable construction technology, and the use of earth buildings for a zero-carbon future. I aim to drive forward-thinking practices and educational advancements through these diverse areas to build a more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable construction industry.
Professional
Contact details
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Ph: +6492136259
Location: 3.40, Quadrangle Building A
Campus: East Precinct, Gate 1, Albany Highway, Auckland, 0632
Qualifications
- Bachelor of the Science of Civil Engineering (1st Class Honours) - University of Moratuwa (2009)
- Graduate Diploma in Tertiary Education - Otago Polytechnic (2019)
- Doctor of Philosophy - Auckland University of Technology (2014)
Fellowships and Memberships
- Member, Charted Institute of Buildings (CIOB) (Other) (2023)
- Member, Project Management Institute (Member) (2021)
Certifications and Registrations
- Licence, BIM Fundamentals Trained, BSI Training Academy
- Licence, Supervisor, Massey University
Research Expertise
Research Interests
My work spans the study of people in the built environment, workforce development, and the health and safety of the construction workforce. I focus on including Māori in New Zealand's construction industry, advocating for greater representation. Additionally, I explore upskilling in innovative technologies, stakeholder management in construction supply chains, and construction education. My research also includes leadership in construction projects, 3D printing as a sustainable construction technology, and the use of earth buildings for a zero-carbon future. I aim to drive forward-thinking practices and educational advancements through these diverse areas to build a more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable construction industry.
Research Opportunities
- 3D Printing technology as an effective solution for sustainable house construction in New Zealand (01/06/2022) This research aims to explore the overseas experience of 3D printing in residential construction and identify ways to adapt this technology to the New Zealand construction sector.
- Identification of the skills demanded in the residential construction sector: A content analysis of job advertisements in New Zealand. (01/04/2022) This study aims to identify the skills demanded in the New Zealand residential construction sectors. A selected set of construction job advertisements from the New Zealand Seek Website.
- 3D printing with raw earth for sustainable future of New Zealand construction (01/06/2022) This proposed project aims to conduct a feasibility study to investigate how 3D printing technology for earth construction can be adopted in the New Zealand construction sector.
Thematics
21st Century Citizenship
Area of Expertise
Field of research codes
Building (120200):
Building Construction Management and Project Planning (120201):
Building Science and Techniques (120202):
Built Environment And Design (120000):
Design Innovation (120302):
Design Practice and Management (120300):
Digital and Interaction Design (120304):
Earth Sciences (040000):
Education (130000):
Engineering Design (120400)
Keywords
People in the Built Environment
Workforce Development
Health and Safety of Construction Workforce
Māori in the New Zealand Construction Industry
Upskilling on Innovative Digital Technologies
Stakeholder Management in the Construction Supply Chains
Construction Education
Leadership in Construction Projects
3D Printing as a Sustainable Construction Technology
Earth Buildings for Zero Carbon Future
Research Projects
Completed Projects
Project Title: Development of a behaviour change intervention for transforming the residential construction sector: A case study on the applications of 3D printing in New Zealand
Date Range: 2023 - 2023
Funding Body: Massey University
Project Team:
- Dr Don Samarasinghe - Project Leader
- Dr Zhenan Feng - Team Member
- Dr An Le - Team Member
Project Title: Building Sustainable Communities: 3D Printing Construction for People in China and New Zealand
Date Range: 2023 - 2023
Funding Body: Massey University
Project Team:
- Dr Don Samarasinghe - Project Leader
Project Title: Development of a framework for upskilling Maori construction practitioners in New Zealand
Date Range: 2023 - 2024
Funding Body: Te Pūkenga - New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology
Project Team:
- Dr Don Samarasinghe - Project Leader
- Ms Marama Garnett - Team Member
Research Outputs
Journal
[Journal article]Authored by: Rasheed, E., Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Rotimi, J., Samarasinghe, D., Zuo, K.
[Journal article]Authored by: Reddy, R., Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Rotimi, J., Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Journal article]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
Book
[Chapter]Authored by: Rotimi, J., Samarasinghe, D.Edited by: Rotimi, J.
[Chapter]Authored by: Rasheed, E., Samarasinghe, D.
[Chapter]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Chapter]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Chapter]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
Thesis
[Doctoral Thesis]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.Edited by: Rotimi, J.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
Conference
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Rotimi, J., Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.Edited by: Rasheed, E.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Playne, D., Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.Edited by: Rasheed, E.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.Edited by: Rasheed, E.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Rotimi, J., Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Rotimi, J., Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Rotimi, J., Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Rotimi, J., Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Rotimi, J., Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Rotimi, J., Samarasinghe, D.
[Conference Paper in Published Proceedings]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
Other
[Internet publication]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
[Internet publication]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Internet publication]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Internet publication]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Internet publication]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Internet publication]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Internet publication]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
[Internet publication]Authored by: Samarasinghe, D.
![abstract icon](/massey/app_templates/_pagetemplates/pagelets/academic_outputs/images/abstract.jpg)
Consultancy and Languages
Consultancy
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2014
- Complete Urban, Auckland, New Zealand
Designed optical fibre cable connections (AutoCAD detail drawings, Bills of Materials and quotations) for multi-dwelling units (MDU) in Australia. -
2007
- Sanken Construction (Pvt) Ltd, Sri Lanka
Supervised construction of key structural elements such as beams, columns, floor slabs and concrete walls in a 42-storied twin tower in central Colombo in Sri Lanka. -
2008
- N & A Engineering Services (Pvt) Ltd, Sri Lanka
Led construction of raft foundation and major structural elements for a 12-storied residential building. -
2014 – 2016
- New Zealand Institute of Studies (NZIOS), Auckland, New Zealand
Established and led the NZIOS Research Committee responsible for overseeing all matters relevant to research including formulating research policies and strategies. -
2015
- New Zealand Curriculum Design Institute
National Business Sustainability & Productivity Programme Advisory Committee Member -
2016
- Future Skills Academy, Manukau, Auckland, New Zealand
Prepared course materials for Building Construction, Materials and Systems in accordance with the programme document and professional practices. -
2017
- Otago Polytechnic
Facilitated the experiential learning mini course programme open to all staff, offering support and guidance to staff developing experiential learning activity and reflective practice for learners. -
2019-2020
- Otago Polytechnic
Maintained industry collaboration through Permanent External Advisory Committee (PEAC) meetings, conducting construction site visits, and participating in professional development activities. -
2019 - 2020
- Capable New Zealand
Developed Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BET) and Diploma in Construction Management distance learning programmes (Independent Learning Pathways - ILP).
Languages
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English
Last used: Today
Spoken ability: Excellent
Written ability: Excellent
Teaching and Supervision
Teaching Statement
Throughout the past 12 years of my academic journey in New Zealand, I have established a reputation for designing and delivering innovative and impactful curricula to meet the unique learning needs of a diverse student body. I have extensive experience in developing teaching and assessment materials for various qualifications, including the Bachelor of Construction, the Graduate Diploma and Master of Professional Practice in Construction Management.
My teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in Experiential Learning, which encourages students to learn through practical experience and reflection. I have designed and facilitated learning experiences that are both engaging and tailored to the individual needs of my students, seamlessly blending experiential learning and reflective practices into my teaching approach. I am committed to providing positive and constructive formative feedback to my students, offering guidance and support that fosters academic growth and improvement.
I am an approachable, compassionate and empathetic educator who is dedicated to my professional growth and development. I regularly reflect on my teaching practices and strive to continuously improve through professional development opportunities, incorporating feedback from my students and colleagues into my ongoing growth as an educator.
Courses Taught
- 218.810 - Research Report
- 218.710 - Advanced Construction Planning and Scheduling
- 218.714 - Sustainable Buildings and Structures
- 218.331 - Construction Quality Assurance
- 218.324 - Integrating Building Information and the Supply Chain
- 218.327 - Sustainability and Construction Innovation
- 218.335 - Construction Management and Equipment
- 218.344 - Managing Risk and Operational Sustainability
- 218.226 - Planning and Digital Built Environment for Quantity Surveyors
- 218.228 - Planning and Digital Built Environment for Construction Managers
- 218.106 - Construction Health, Safety and Wellbeing
Graduate Supervision Statement
As a postgraduate supervisor, I consider it a great honour and privilege to support and guide students in their academic journey. I strive to provide a holistic, knowledge-driven and student-centred approach to supervision. I am passionate about supporting students in the following areas of interest: 3D printing in construction, Earth construction, and the application of innovative technologies to enhance the sustainability in the built environment. I am open to receiving expressions of interest from students who share my enthusiasm for these subjects and seek a supportive and knowledgeable supervisor.
I recently supervised a group of postgraduate (Masters') students on various research projects related to the construction industry in New Zealand, conducted at different universities across the country. Here are the projects in order from the most recent to the oldest:
- 3D Printing with Raw Earth for Sustainable Future of New Zealand Construction, conducted by a student at Massey University in 2022/2023.
- Investigation of 3D Printing technology to improve the environmental sustainability of the built environment in New Zealand also conducted at Massey University in 2022.
- Quality Assurance and Quality Control in Offshore Modular Fabrication for Residential Construction in New Zealand, studied by a group of students at AUT in 2021.
- The effect of skill shortages in the prefabricated residential construction supply chain, also studied at AUT in 2020.
- Design changes in EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) projects, researched at Otago Polytechnic in 2020.
- A study of the Building Information Modelling (BIM) system within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry in New Zealand, also conducted at Otago Polytechnic in 2020.
These research projects illustrate the significance of sustainable building practices and the use of innovative technology in the construction industry, and showcase the valuable contributions that postgraduate students can make to this field. I am extremely proud of my students' hard work and dedication in completing these important research projects.
Dr Don Samarasinghe is available for Masters and Doctorial supervision.
Summary of Doctoral Supervision
Position | Current | Completed |
---|---|---|
Main Supervisor | 6 | 0 |
Co-supervisor | 3 | 0 |
Current Doctoral Supervision
Main Supervisor of:
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Anjalee Sinhalage
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Doctor of Philosophy
Sustainable Construction in New Zealand: Assessing the whole Life Cycle Impact of 3D Printing Technology -
Asad Bajwa
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Doctor of Philosophy
3D concrete printing technology as a solution for sustainable construction in New Zealand -
Jimmy Zhou Zhou
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Doctor of Philosophy
Examining Global Policy Influences on the Adoption of 3D Concrete Printing Technology: A Roadmap for New Zealand -
Wajhat Ali
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Doctor of Philosophy
AI-Enhanced Decision Support System for Real Estate Management in New Zealand -
Elaine Ma
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Doctor of Philosophy
Designing and Implementation of a Decision Support System---Sustainable Supply Chain Management of 3D Printing Construction in New Zealand - view more...
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Zechen Guan
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Doctor of Philosophy
A study on the health and safety of Chinese migrant workers in the New Zealand construction industry - view less...
Co-supervisor of:
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Wajhat Ali
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Doctor of Philosophy
AI-Enhanced Decision Support System for Real Estate Management in New Zealand -
Muluken Kelemu
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Doctor of Philosophy
Unravelling Schedule Risks of Interconnected Projects: From Project to Programme Management of Complex Projects in New Zealand -
Vineet Arya
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Doctor of Philosophy
A New Normal for Classrooms of Primary School – Post -Covid-19: A Case Study New Zealand.