Core Module Information
Module title: Principles of Civil Engineering

SCQF level: 07:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10

Module code: CTR07103
Module leader: Juan Bernal-Sanchez
School School of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Subject area group: Built Environment
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added

Description of module content:

The module is designed to provide students with an understanding of the basic principles of civil engineering and a practical knowledge of simple methods for analyzing and designing elements of the built environment. In this module the students will work towards developing a fundamental understanding of civil engineering principles in terms of forces and related materials, applicable to the design and analysis of a wide range of structures. The focus of the module is “Static Equilibrium”, situation where each force acting on a body is perfectly balanced by a force acting with the same magnitude in the opposing direction. From the civil engineering applications point of view, the module will explore the following topics:(i) Fundamentals: of SI units, scalar, vector, mass, force, weight, density, force components, along with the use of the most common software platforms.(ii) Section properties: centroid, centroidal axis, second moment of area, parallel axis theorem, section modulus.(iii) Elasticity: structures and material under load, direct stress and strain, Young’s Modulus, basic design of structures, elastic and plastic behaviour.(iv) Static equilibrium: moments, reactions, bending moment and bending moment diagram, shear force and shear force diagrams, beam theory, bending and shear stress, deflection of beams.(v) Pin-joined frames: ties and struts, method of joint, method of sections.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Solve basic static problems and understand how these relate to the design of SAFE structures.

LO2: Determine geometrical properties of common cross-sections used in engineering.

LO3: Undertake the analysis and design of simply supported beams and trusses.

LO4: Use appropriate engineering software to produce professional reports.

LO5: Develop a sense of engineering judgement and understanding of established theoretical methods used to solve engineering problems.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2024/5, Trimester 2, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Juan Bernal-Sanchez
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 20 The module content will be delivered through a series of weekly two-hour lectures, covering key topics outlined in the module descriptor. Each session will provide in-depth exploration of core concepts, supported by practical examples and interactive discussions to enhance understanding.
Face To Face Tutorial 10 The module will include five two-hour tutorials, where students will have the opportunity to apply and practice the concepts covered in lectures. These sessions will focus on problem-solving, hands-on exercises, and group discussions to reinforce understanding and build practical skills.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 10 The module will include five two-hour computer-based tutorials, focusing on exercises using specialized engineering software. These sessions will offer hands-on experience, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts in a practical context. Through guided exercises, students will develop proficiency in using the software.
Online Guided independent study 156 Guided independent study will involve self-directed learning activities, where students will explore module content at their own pace, supported by recommended readings, online resources, and structured tasks. This study is designed to deepen understanding and prepare students for assessments, with guidance provided by the module tutor as needed
Face To Face Supervised time in studio/workshop 4 This module will include a hands-on workshop and student competition, designed to assess their structural engineering skills. Students will work in teams to design and build a simple load-bearing structure using provided materials. At the end of the session, each structure will be evaluated based on its load-bearing capacity and design efficiency. This challenge offers a unique opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, collaborate with peers, and enhance problem solving.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Class Test 40 1~3~5 Week 6 HOURS= 2 hours An online class test designed to assess knowledge in the following topics: resolution of forces, moments, support reactions, and truss analysis. The test will be issued in Week 6, and students will have four days to submit their solutions.
Project - Written 60 1~2~3~4~5 Week 13 , WORDS= 2000 words/6h Written coursework designed to assess knowledge in the following topics: SI units, sectional properties and analysis of simply supported beams. The coursework will be issued in Week 9, and students will have four weeks to submit their solutions.
Component 1 subtotal: 40
Component 2 subtotal: 60
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Principles of Civil Engineering