Core Module Information
Module title: Construction Methods

SCQF level: 09:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10

Module code: CTR09131
Module leader: Kenneth Leitch
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:

This module aims to give the student knowledge and expierience of practices and techniques used during the construction process. Construction processes used when specifying Steel, Concrete and Timber will be studied. In class learning will be supported by practical tutorial activities. Visits to live construction sites and interaction with practicing engineers form a critical part of the learning associated with this module. • Evolution of construction methods, from timber cruck frames to modern day high rise.• Small scale construction (one off houses) to major construction projects.• Open craft produced systems to closed manufactured systems.• Effects of legislation and sector reviews on the construction industry• The sustainability agenda and whole life cycle analysis.• Revised structural codes of practice and design procurement methods.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Assess how construction has evolved and the drivers behind the evolutionary process.

LO2: Select appropriate construction methods and how this impacts upon the procurement process.

LO3: Critically assess methods of construction taking into consideration a multitude of influencing aspects.

LO4: Discuss the effects that legislation and revised structural codes of practice have on construction methods and identify and reference appropriate sources in support of this.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2025/6, Trimester 1, 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: Kenneth Leitch
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 20 In person lecture covering construction techniques, materials and process. Further reading will be signposted. Note that lecture may involve a site visit , arrangements for this will be communicated in advance.
Face To Face Tutorial 20 Tutorial session to underpin material covered in the lecture. This session will also include practical sessions and activities.
Online Guided independent study 152 Guided independent study using reading materials and sources signposted during lecture and tutorial sessions. This may include video resources and online quizzes.
Total Study Hours192
Expected Total Study Hours for Module192


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Class Test 50 1~2~3~4 Week 12 HOURS= 3hrs Equivalent Reponses to questions supported by reference to relevant litreature.The 2nd (and final) assessment for the module is on the form of an open book test comprising of 4 multiple part questions. The open book format encourages students to critically evaluate, evidence and justify their answers. Responses are to be extensive, well referenced and make use of appropriate litreature. Questions effectively provide prompts which encourage the student to undertake an in depth investigation. All questions relate to the topics covered in by the lectures however, given the extended time frame and the ability to freely use available resources to compile answers, independent investigation is required. Students are discouraged from reproducing/ representing source materials and are instead encouraged to synthesise and objectively review litreature as a basis for academic discourse. Students are also encouraged to evaluate sources and justify their use.
Report 50 1~2~3~4 Week 13 , WORDS= 3500 words The student is tasked with the production of a written report whichincludes a critical review of 5 referenced literature sources. The report should detail the findings from a site visit undertaken during this module.The submission should comprise of 2 components:1. A 2000 word report detailing findings from the site visits2. A critical analysis of 5 literature sources which have been referenced as part of the report (circa 1500 words)With respect to the site visit, the report may detail the following: • Background of the site, project rationale/relevant history, future development plans • A description of the activities or operations associated with the site (this may include planned activities) • Observations made during the visit – these can be supplemented by images taken during the visit• Links to the wider context of Civil Engineering – this can be achieved through the identification of similar case studies and/or published works including legislative documents• Incorporation of H&S and Sustainability with in the project
Component 1 subtotal: 100
Component 2 subtotal: 0
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
CTR09131 Construction Methods