A project-based integrated work/review cycle (PBIWR) for design and learning of accelerated construction monitoring

Abstract

To minimize impact due to travel delay, the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) has been pushing for Accelerated Construction (AC) techniques for public transportation construction. In contrast to traditional construction techniques, the AC technology is envisioned by the federal agency to have the potential to generate great savings for the nation by eliminating unnecessary traffic jams due to slow construction processes. This change in construction philosophy offers a great opportunity to introduce the advanced concept of full monitoring of structural construction/aging processes via embedded sensing technologies. Since this involves both inspection techniques and construction management, this paper suggests an integrated learning approach that can be applied to a design project-oriented course content that is offered in both Civil Engineering Technology (CIET)/Construction Management (CM) and Structural Monitoring (CEE) courses, such that students from both Departments can work separately, but produce one project outcome. Results from a student survey indicated that this study enhanced students' skills of generating creative and realistic solutions for solving open-ended problems, and promoted an active learning environment by diffusing interdisciplinary knowledge and engaging collaborations amongst graduate/undergraduate study groups. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2013.