Using 3D modelling and dynamic thermal simulation software tools to facilitate student understanding of complex principles in 'passive' building design: an experiential learning approach

Dowdle, DL

Abstract

Students today are much more PC and IT literate than their counterparts of five or ten years ago. The huge increase in Internet usage, PC's in schools and interactive game play are surely a contributory factor in this. Students enjoy using IT, both during leisure and their studies. The purpose of this innovative introduction to student studies was to develop in students an enthusiasm for working with others and team building whilst developing, analysing and understanding ‘real world’ projects having a strong IT link and incorporating those projects within a 3-D building modelling and simulation software tool. To facilitate student understanding, the assignment was developed around David Kolb's 4 stage learning styles model of 'concrete experience', 'observation / reflection', 'generalisation / conceptualisation' and 'experimentation / integration'. Working as teams, students created two simple case study buildings and, by carrying out interactive real-time ‘what if’ scenarios, determined how and why the materials used in the construction of buildings affect their thermal performance.

Citation

Dowdle, D. (2003, September). Using 3D modelling and dynamic thermal simulation software tools to facilitate student understanding of complex principles in 'passive' building design: an experiential learning approach. Presented at Education in a Changing Environment, University of Salford

• Presentation Conference Type: Other
• Conference Name: Education in a Changing Environment
• Conference Location: University of Salford
• Start Date: Sep 17, 2003
• End Date: Sep 18, 2003
• Deposit Date: Jun 15, 2009
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 15, 2009
• Additional Information: Additional Information : ISBN: 9780902896666; Event Type : Conference