Title:
Practical Experience for Engineering Students
Author(s):
John J. Schemmel
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
20
Issue:
12
Appears on pages(s):
41-44
Keywords:
beams; civil engineering; education; engineering education; reinforced concrete; specifications; structural design
DOI:
Date:
12/1/1998
Abstract:
Most civil engineering programs require students to take a course in reinforced concrete design. What sets the course at the University of Arkansas apart from others is that students must design, build, and test an 8.0 ft (2.4 m) long reinforced concrete beam. This project integrates subject matter covered in the Structural Materials, Structural Analysis, and Reinforced Concrete Design courses. The project requires students to consider how design and construction relate and it helps them hone their communication skills. Ancillary benefits include exposure to project scheduling, ordering materials, reviewing and writing project specifications, dealing with unexpected problems, working in teams, and others.