Universal design for learning (UDL) is a pedagogical framework intended to promote accessibility and equity in learning environments, especially for students with disabilities. In UDL, instructors provide optionality and flexibility in the learning environment for representation, engagement, and expression, rather than expecting the learner to…

Following a widespread national trend, in 1996, a new two-credit hour course titled "Introduction to Civil Engineering" was introduced at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (SIUC). The class has a one-hour lecture per week, and a two-hour lab or small group session. One reason for the introduction of this class was to provide earlier…

In 1996, a comprehensive project was introduced in the first course of Reinforced Concrete Design, CVEG 4303 at the University of Arkansas. The primary purpose of this project was to highlight issues related to the construction of reinforced concrete elements. This semester-long project involves the design, fabrication, and testing of 8-foot long…

Describes a two-semester project course required of all seniors at West Virginia University in the Department of Civil Engineering which involves team effort and encompasses four major areas of civil engineering: structures, geotechnical, transportation, and soils. (CS)

This paper is a description of a college course in structural design, which in this case serves as the capstone of the program in Civil Engineering Technology at the College of Staten Island (New York). Fourteen weeks of class lecture topics, activities, and assignments are delineated. Coverage includes building codes, loads calculation,…

Develops a programed approach for developing design projects. Describes the initiation, design experiences, final report, and problems of the approach. (YP)

Described is a study of the feasibility and desirability of offering undergraduates freedom to select the course content in a first year course on the properties and use of civil engineering materials. A report of a series of interviews with students participating in the study is appended. (JMD)

Introduces two courses for developing relevant computer use in a civil engineering department. The sophomore course introduces students to a set of problem-formulation methods and computer-based problem-solving tools. The senior course introduces students to representative, professional quality computer-aided engineering tools. Discusses impact of…

Describes the engineering education program at the Aalborg University Center in Denmark. Details the aims of the program. Outlines the programs and multidisciplinary departments of the university. Explains how students are grouped around projects. Reviews the evaluation process. Examines the attitudes of students in the program. (CW)

An instructional approach used in a civil engineering curriculum at Queens University of Belfast (Northern Ireland) incorporates development of communication skills into active learning assignments. A "learning from disasters" exercise and two mock public inquiries illustrate the use and benefits of the technique. (Author/MSE)

Describes a two-quarter chemistry course designed to enable civil engineers to perform water analysis studies. (PB)