The Design, Assemble and Dismantle (DAD) project

This article explores the origins and development of the Design, Assemble and Dismantle (DAD) project at the University of Surrey from 2014 to the present. The project won the Institution of Structural Engineers Excellence in Structural Engineering Education Award in 2023. The article covers: use of innovative project-based learning education techniques small-group working, using small-scale models for design, moving onto full-scale steel, membrane and bamboo kits for assembly and then dismantling continuous innovation and development of the project collaboration with cross-discipline specialists to drive curriculum co-design, internationalisation and digitalisation endorsement and support from industry positive experience, feedback and module evaluation from students capacity to provide positive experiences and learning to students later in a variety of industrial contexts, including industrial awareness, practical application, communication, collaboration, health and safety, transferrable skills, insight into consulting/contracting, cohort integration and personal confidence. The project demonstrates scalability through curriculum design and international take-up. Students learn that spatial structures use less materials, can use bamboo as a sustainable construction material, and that structures can be recycled and reused at the end of life.