Collaborative Challenge in Building Engineering Studies: Transversality through 3d Models

Abstract

In the construction sector problems are complex, and they need to be addressed from different points of view and with different approaches. On the other hand, university curricula structure knowledge in different subjects in order to organize teaching. However, in the professional reality it is necessary to interrelate knowledge that students have acquired in various subjects in order to address the problem from a holistic point of view. The present work proposes to perform a collaborative challenge (and competitive between teams) aiming to address, from a multidisciplinary approach, a complex and a specific constructive problem. In addition, transversally, it is intended to contribute to students being more involved with their learning process by increasing their motivation and interaction between colleagues through collaborative learning and teamwork. To this end, an open competition has been proposed for several students from the Technical University of Madrid. The competition has been consisted in the free development of some 3D models of roofs by fulfilling some bases that strictly specify the geometric conditions and the features for the roof. For the elaboration of the models a laser cutter has been used. The results of the educational innovation project have allowed the teachers involved to know the limitations and benefits of the application of transversal knowledge techniques through learning based on the collaborative challenge. In addition, it has been possible to test favourably that learning based on collaborative challenges involving 3D models present a holistic approach that, in addition of promoting transversal learning, increases the motivation of the participants through the competition format and team collaboration.