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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Introduction to Building Technology
Reference AC1002 Version 14
Created February 2024 SCQF Level SCQF 7
Approved July 2005 SCQF Points 15
Amended April 2024 ECTS Points 7.5

Aims of Module
To enable the student to analyse and understand the structural and environmental principles that underlie the construction of buildings.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Demonstrate knowledge of the basic principles of structure and its materials as applicable to the design and construction of buildings including performance in the event of fire.
2 Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of human environmental comfort.
3 Apply knowledge of structural properties to the design and/or testing of a simple structure.
4 Apply knowledge of human responses to environmental conditions to specific solutions to issues of comfort.

Indicative Module Content
The module introduces the basic requirements of structures and the principles of structural design, loads and overall stability. Fundamental structural forms such as compression structures, frame structures and tensile structures are introduced and explained in relation to materials, load paths, strength and stability. Structural elements and their functions are explained as are the internal effects of loads on structures. Students will learn to recognise structural forms, arrangements and components in buildings and explain how they behave. The concepts and principles of environmental comfort are introduced. Visual comfort – light as a qualitative and a quantitative entity. Units of light measurement, principles of diffuse daylight and direct sunlight. Concept of glare. Acoustic comfort – qualities of acoustic environments, transmission of sound through space, materials and components. Thermal comfort – Physiological response to temperature change. Key factors that affect our thermal comfort. Indoor air quality – Factors that affect indoor air quality. Sources of pollution. Basic principles of ventilation.

Module Delivery
This module is delivered by lectures, practical workshops, directed student research and online activities.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 30 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 120 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 150 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Examination Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4
Description: Examination.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The overall module grade is based on 100% weighting of component 1 (examination). A grade D is required to pass the module. Non submission will result in an NS grade.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A A
B B
C C
D D
E E
F F
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module None in addition to course (SCQF7) entry requirements.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 Borer P. & Harris C., 2005. The Whole House Book. 2nd Edition. Centre for Alternative Technology Publications).
2 Ching F D K., 2008. Building Construction Illustrated. 4th Edition . John Wiley & Son.
3 Deplazes A., 2013. 3rd edition. Constructing Architecture: Materials, Processes, Structures; A Handbook. Birkhauser Verlag AG.
4 Mitchell, J., 1997. The Craft of Modular Post & Beam. Hartley & Marks Publishers.
5 Zaretsky M., 2009. Precedents in Zero Energy Design. 1st Edition, Routledge.
6 Seward D, Understanding Structures-Analysis, Materials, Design (2003) 3rd edition.

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781