In 1996, a comprehensive project was introduced in the first course of Reinforced Concrete Design, CVEG 4303 at the University of Arkansas. The primary purpose of this project was to highlight issues related to the construction of reinforced concrete elements. This semester-long project involves the design, fabrication, and testing of 8-foot long…

For architecture students, a laboratory is seen as the most natural and productive way of learning about building construction. An introductory construction course at MIT is described that includes lectures, assigned readings, homework exercises, field trips to construction sites, and a weekly laboratory for hands-on experience. (MLW)

Data compiled from the American Hospital Association's annual surveys on the sources of funding for hospital construction are provided. The pattern of financing hospital construction in institutions shifted dramatically during the last decade with the most striking change in the use of debt financing. (MLW)

Described is a way for an amateur to build a mercury-vapor ion laser which was devised by Dean Morelli. Morelli's laser emits bright pulses of green light and dimmer pulses of red-orange light and is the first gaseous-ion laser. (Author/DS)

Describes a circuit (utilizing simple equipment) which can be used to measure the period of a harmonic oscillator. (CP)

An approach to optimum building shape design is summarized that is based on local climate and is especially important for heat control in lower cost construction with temperature-responsive thermal characteristics. The study was supported by Istanbul Technical University. For journal availability see HE 508 931. (Author/LBH)

Current activity intended to lead to energy conservation measures in building codes and standards is reviewed by members of the Office of Building Standards and Codes Services of the National Bureau of Standards. For journal availability see HE 508 931. (LBH)

This report describes a review conducted by the Massachusetts Office of the Inspector General on the construction of the Computer Science and Development Center at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. The office initiated the review after hearing concerns about the management of the project, including its delayed completion and substantial…

Explains how to use the AppleWorks spreadsheet application for estimating labor, time, and materials costs in the construction industry. (SK)

Postoccupancy evaluation is a set of procedures and tools used to learn how well design ideas have worked in real buildings. Explores some of the important issues about postoccupancy evaluation using questions that are often asked about this new component in the building delivery system. (MLF)

A salt model was developed as a teaching tool to demonstrate the development of caverns and karst topography. Salt slabs are placed in a watertight box to represent fractured limestone. Erosion resulting from water flow can be photographed in time-lapse sequence or demonstrated in the laboratory. (Author/CP)

Using the basic Bagnold design, a relatively inexpensive suction-type wind tunnel can be constructed for laboratory demonstration of sand-grain movement, ripple development, and other eolian processes. Its simple design provides no workshop problems and it can be made for a total cost in materials of approximately $225. (Author/CP)

Explains the theory and laboratory construction procedures of a positive photoresist. (CP)

A program providing second-year civil engineering students in Singapore with experience in constructing full-size structures assigns students to companies involved in the construction process for role-playing in each of the major functions. (MSE)