E-Learning Experience in Building Engineering: a Case Study

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present evaluation findings from a case study of the use of e-learning methodology in Spanish higher education. To this end, the research developed here shows the results of a survey questionnaire conducted in the first year discipline "Introduction to Construction" of the Building Engineering School at the Technical University of Madrid (Universidad Politecnica de Madrid). The students were asked their opinion and experience on the e-learning methodology implemented in their class curriculum. This paper provides an overview of the study developed, describes the methodology used, summarizes the implementation experiences of the students involved and presents the main findings. Results show that over 71% of the students prefer practical lessons rather than traditional teaching. In addition, 57% of respondents agree with studying the theory by their own. Therefore, summarizing lectures, highlighting the key points and answering the major questions asked by the students, are essential factors to be implemented in future teaching lessons. In addition, solving practical exercises during the class has been the main measure chosen by students, as their questions and doubts can be immediately solved by the lecturer. In short, e-learning teaching should be commonly used and enhanced, as 74% of the students agree on implementing this method and 54% of them consider e-learning a high valued measure (4 on a 5 point scale).