Educational Kits in the Classroom: Learn by Testing

Abstract

One of the main problems of the learning of the structures is the visualization of the strains of the elements and the displacements and rotation of the connections, once the system receives the load. The strain of architectural models can be observed through digital simulation using different computer programs, which allow the modification of different parameters and the verification of the changes that originate at the deformations of the models. In the Escuela Tecnica Superior de Edificacion and the Escuela de Ingenieria Civil of the Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, a new experience, that aims the student to experiment with an in-scale physical interactive model that simulates the behavior of architectural structures, has been carried out. The material used is formed by a set of modular pieces that allow innumerable combinations, which facilitates the construction of different structural systems, as well as the visualization of the movements and strains of the elements. The activity constitutes a sensory experience with structural behavior, which the student implements using their own hands. The management of the structure model is simple and intuitive and does not require prior technical knowledge, so it is a good tool to start studying the construction of structural systems. Moreover, weekly workshops have been carried out where the student reproduces different solutions and constructive systems and observes the strain directly. Subsequently, they have made educational videos of the solutions studied, where he has been the understanding of these concepts.