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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Introduction to Building Technology
Reference SU1502 Version 1
Created August 2023 SCQF Level SCQF 7
Approved January 2024 SCQF Points 30
Amended ECTS Points 15

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

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Acquire knowledge and understanding of the materials, structure and construction of timber frame and masonry domestic buildings.
2 Apply learning of performance, environment, servicing and life cycle of material for timber frame and masonry domestic buildings
3 Take account of the pathology, performance, materials, construction and structure of existing buildings
4 Develop knowledge of sustainable approaches to new build domestic buildings and knowledge of retrofit to existing buildings

Indicative Module Content
The module introduces the basic requirements of structures and the principles of structural design, loads and overall stability. Fundamental structural forms will be explored. 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 domestic buildings and explain how they behave. The concepts of building performance and material specification will be introduced and applied. The concepts and principles of environmental comfort are introduced and their impact on building performance will be explored. At the end of the module a student should be able to understand domestic buildings historically and their build up, new buildings including timber frame and masonry and their construction as well as understanding the needs of future housing and alternatives structures and materials.

Module Delivery
This is a module predominantly involving practical work in relation to a project supported by lectures, practical workshops, directed student research and online activities, and where appropriate site visits. Directed study to core texts and resource material will be encouraged. Presentations will be used to discuss work completed to staff typically in a Poster format or digitally.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 77 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 223 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 300 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: Coursework Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4
Description: Project based coursework based on group work and individual work. Coursework submitted as a single portfolio comprising graphic content, virtual models and/or physical models.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The overall module grade is based on 100% weighting (Coursework). 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.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 Ching F D K., 2020. Building Construction Illustrated. 6th Edition . John Wiley & Son.
2 Deplazes A., (2022) Constructing Architecture: Materials, Processes, Structures; A Handbook. Birkhauser Verlag AG.5th Edition
3 Seward D, (2014) Understanding Structures : Analysis, Materials, Design 5th edition.
4 Walshaw, E. (2022) Understanding Architectural Details : Residential Architecture. First In Architecture. 5th Edition.
5 Walshaw, E. (2018) Understanding Architectural Details : Commercial Architecture. First In Architecture. 2nd Edition.

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