module specification

This module will provide you with a hands on, practical and engaging introduction to this fascinating subject area.  Over the course of the module, you will gain an understanding of fundamental materials science and knowledge of the composition and performance of key construction materials. You will explore the mechanical behaviour of materials used in a variety of construction applications as well as their environmental credentials. The module will introduce you to simple structural forms and you will consider how loads are transferred through a building and through the foundations to the substrata.

By the end of the module, you will be able to identify and describe the form and function of various structural materials and elements. You will have an understanding of the strength, stability and performance behaviour of structures and materials under applied loading. This will help you to appreciate the importance of appropriate material selection and the value of design codes in structural engineering. Throughout the module you will undertake practical experiments and tests to develop your statistical, analytical and problem-solving skills.  You will be introduced to data science and big data analytics and begin to develop your awareness and familiarity with data analysis techniques.

• Mathematics and structural mechanics for built environment professionals (LO5)
• Established and emerging construction materials (LO1)
• Geotechnics (LO2,3,5)
• Experimentation to explore (LO2,3,5):
o Material failure
o Material stress & strain
o Material creep & shrinkage
o Material density & porosity
• Identification of the form and function and performance of structural systems (LO3,5)
• Detailing of structural elements (LO3,5)
• Structural behaviour of materials (LO2,3)
• An introduction to design codes (LO2)
• Bending theory of beams (LO3)
• Structure and envelope (LO3)
• Internal environments: Thermal performance, lighting, ventilation, sound and fire (LO4)
• Materials science and structures – sustainable choices (LO4,5)
• An introduction to data science and big data analytics (LO6)

A problem-based learning approach will be adopted for this module. You will have formal lectures on an aspect of materials science or structural theory, and then be tasked to find solution to a problem that will be set for you by your tutor.

Study will be supported via lectures, seminars, workshops, experimentation, and guided asynchronous activities/ Where appropriate, activities will be captured and made available to allow asynchronous access. The value of this blended approach is that you will be able to continue to explore topics beyond the classroom and interact with your cohort to expand on discussions and debates.

You will be guided to conduct research into the area of materials science and structural principles and apply what you have learnt to solve problems. You will work in teams to encourage collaboration and to develop your team working skills. This will include working in the laboratory, conducting experiments on materials and simulations of responses to structural loading.

You will be encouraged to undertake your own research to source additional information, including reading journals and publications and attending relevant CPD events. This will help to build your own personal body of knowledge and give you reference points to use in assessments in your academic work and in the future to use in your professional work.

Exam preparation sessions will be held during the term.

You will reflect on your learning which will contribute towards your online Professional Development Journal (PDJ).

On completion of the module the learner, operating independently and applying their knowledge and skills, should be able to:

1. Identify appropriate uses for traditional and emerging construction materials.
2. Undertake experiments on a range of materials to determine their structural and other properties.
3. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of simple structural principles and systems.
4. Understand the scientific principles underlying the thermal performance, lighting, acoustics, air quality and fire safety of buildings and building materials.  
5. Understand and apply basic mathematical and structural mechanics principles to solve construction and surveying problems.
6. Collect, collate and process data from observations, experimentation and published sources, and present the findings in an appropriate format.

The 2 module assessments test the student’s knowledge and understanding that should have been developed throughout the module. The module assessment reflects the need for students to understand the performance characteristics of materials and the performance of structural elements and forms, for example when subjected to loadings. Further information will be issued in the coursework and examination briefs.

Coursework 1: Individual Report (2,500 words) 50%

Students will be required to write a 2,000-word illustrated laboratory report to record the findings of an experiment which will be agreed with their tutor.

Exam: (75 minutes, open book) 50%

Students will be required to sit a 75-minute exam to test their knowledge of materials science and structural principles.

There is no single text currently in publication that provides a comprehensive coverage of all aspects of this module. There are several books, publications and online resources which cover various parts of the module in some detail, and these are included in the core text list.

There is excellent coverage of the subject available via the Construction Information Service (CIS).  

CIS is accessed via Construction Information Service  and provides a huge range of information relevant to this module. You will be directed to relevant resources throughout the module.

Core and recommended resources are listed in the online reading list for the module:

Talis reading list