AA1STI: Construction Technology: an Introduction

Module code: AA1STI

Module provider: School of Architecture, School of Built Environment

Credits: 20

Level: 4

When you’ll be taught: Semester 2

Module convenor: Mr Mike Kane , email: m.b.kane@reading.ac.uk

Pre-requisite module(s):

Co-requisite module(s): IN THE SAME YEAR AS TAKING THIS MODULE YOU MUST TAKE AA1VCA AND TAKE AA1HTI AND TAKE AA1DS1N AND TAKE AA1DS2N (Compulsory)

Pre-requisite or Co-requisite module(s):

Module(s) excluded:

Placement information: NA

Academic year: 2025/6

Available to visiting students: No

Talis reading list: Yes

Last updated: 3 April 2025

Overview

Module aims and purpose

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. 

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

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3. Construction technologies; 
4. Environmental science; 
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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. 

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, it is expected that students will be able to:

1. 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. Demonstrate in assignments and examination an understanding of alternative materials, processes and techniques in relation to architectural design and the technical requirements of building construction and the needs of the user in relation to small, simple buildings.

Module 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 supply and drainage; responding to climate; principles associated with designing optimal visual, thermal and acoustic environments within relevant precepts of sustainable design; 
5. Services: an introduction to systems and strategies associated with the provision of optimal visual, thermal and acoustic environments, ventilation, power, water supply and drainage; the integration of services in the design of buildings