These laboratory exercises are considered to be a critical part of the Structures I course. Since they are designed to reinfoce the concepts that are introduced in the lectures each week, it is anticipated that every participant will complete each of the exercises in a timely manner. Every attempt will be made to guide and assist each individual through the exercises. Yet, they have been designed to be opportunities for self-learning and exploration. It is the individual's responsibility to request clarification if at any time there are questions, or items which are confusing. These exercises should be both fun and challenging. They have enjoyed success on three continents, but as with everything, they could surely be improved. Constructive criticism and/or suggestions for their improvementare always welcome!
The exercises should be completed during the designated lab period. Each lab will begin with a short description by the TA. This will be followed by a short time for questions. Since these are "learning-by-doing" exercises, it is best to begin immediatly.
Some of the exercises will be completed in small groups and others will be individual efforts. The Cantilevered Equilibrium Exercise will be completed in teams which will be assigned on the first lab day, most of the remaining labs will be completed in teams of two. The Beam Walk-About will be an individual effort.
Lab Reports will be expected to be completed for each exercise. These serve to summarize the observations of the concepts that were investigated in each session. These reports can be submitted in either paper or electronic form. The electronic submission can only take the form of an HTML page. An email message which includes the URL of the lab report must be submitted to the TA prior to the deadline.
Each individual will conduct a case study analysis of one building over the course of the term. This building will be used at differnet times to investigate specific issues as part of the homework assignments. Thus, care should be taken in the selection of a the building. A list will be presented to you in the second week of the term from which you can shoose one building. The requirements for the case study can be found at Case Study Preparation. After the requirements have been read, a structure should be chosen and the selection submitted to the instructor for pre-approval. This is on a first-come, first-served basis.