Case studies and information technology in civil engineering learning

A multimedia-supported case study is presented that deals with a large-scale civil engineering project. This case study is based on the complete analysis, design, and construction files of the developer of the project. The multimedia instructional tool has integrated different disciplines and input from the project manager, senior students, and instructors of different disciplines. This multimedia tool includes hypertext links to modular and stratified information. Information is made available through the user's control in a logical, interactive, deductive, and disciplinary way that follows the flow of a civil engineering project. Text, graphics, and videos are included. The multimedia tool presents a teaching tool that enables senior class civil engineering students to learn about planning, design, and construction phases of a civil engineering project, as well as their integration. The in-class use of the tool and project discussions help the students to relate better their previous academic knowledge to "real-life" problems, enhance their creativity, and increase the level of retention of the new knowledge acquired. Future enhancements and learning possibilities are discussed with the use of additional capabilities of information technology. The multimedia application developed has been used in an academic environment; however, with some modifications, it could be used to improve the "learning curve" of new employees in a company environment.