AA1STI-Construction Technology: an Introduction

Module Provider: School of Architecture, School of Built Environment
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: AA1DS1 Architecture and Design - An Introduction to Studio AA1DS2 Architecture and Design - An Introduction to Site AA1HTI History and Theory of Architecture: an Introduction AA1IPI Industry and Practice - the Business Context of Architecture and AA1VCI Visualisation and Communication in Architectural Design ô€€– An Introduction
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Mr Mike Kane
Email: m.b.kane@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
This module provides an introduction to key concepts related to materials, structures, construction technologies, environmental science and services relevant to the design of buildings. It is the first in a series of related science and technology modules, to be provided over three years within the Architecture programme, and is closely related to other modules including the studio-based part of the curriculum. It may also be of relevance to other programmes.

Aims:

Students will gain a working knowledge and understanding of the following core subject areas relevant to the design of buildings:

1. Materials;

2. Structures;

3. Construction technologies;

4. Environmental science;

5. Services.

As the module progresses, topics will generally be considered in relation to the design of small, individual buildings, an approach which relates to the scale of first year design module projects within the undergraduate architecture programme, and which provides an appropriate foundation to the related second year module. There is an emphasis on environmental resilience throughout this module and in related modules which follow. Aims will be achieved using a variety of teaching and learning methods: the module includes experimental work and ‘hands-on’ activities.

Assessable learning outcomes:
1. Students will understand and be able to describe, using appropriate vocabulary, aspects of the core subject areas outlined below, and will be able to demonstrate the application of this knowledge and understanding in experimental work, assignments and examinations.

2. They will also be able to demonstrate in assignments and examination an understanding of alternative materials, processes and techniques in relation to architectural design and the technical requirements of buildin g construction and the needs of the user in relation to small, simple buildings.

Additional outcomes:
1. Students will have gained an insight into relationships between science and technology and the history, theory and practice of architectural design; and relationships between people, buildings and the environment.

2. They will also have gained an awareness of the needs and aspirations of building users in relation to the science and technology of architecture and building.

3. Students will have an understanding of the alternative materials, processes and techniques that apply to architectural design and building construction; culture, theory and design.

Outline content:
The module is structured around the following topic areas:

1. Materials: physical and chemical properties and characteristics of materials generally; including the properties of masonry, timber, concrete and steel; the environmental impact of specification choices; critical appraisal and selection of alternative materials;

2. Structures: an introduction to structural principles; structures in nature and in vernacular and traditional buildings; the design of walls, beams , columns, floors, roofs and portal frames; critical appraisal and selection of alternative structural components and systems for small buildings;

3. Construction technologies: the technologies of small buildings; the technologies of vernacular and traditional buildings; critical appraisal and selection of alternative technologies for small buildings;

4. Environmental science: an introduction to concepts relating to light, heat, ventilation and sound, power, water suppl y and drainage; responding to climate; principles associated with designing optimal visual, thermal and acoustic environments within relevant prece