Use of ConcepTest in a Course on Building Structural Analysis for Teaching Construction History

Construction History is an important and interesting topic which is seldom given much attention in civil engineering degree study programmes. For this reason and from the teaching perspective, the compulsory subjects that pupils study have to be used to kindle their interest in the area. To this end, this paper examines the use of the ConcepTest technique in a course on building structural design. The methodology is based on posing conceptual questions on special building structures and is explained using specific examples, such as the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris (France).

The technique used enables: a) students to assimilate how structures function, b) a closer relationship to be built between teacher and student, and c) students to develop an interest in Construction History, better to understand and value the built environment.