Engineering of Structures: From Nature to Architecture
Discover the principles behind structural engineering in nature and architecture in this 5-week course.
Discover the principles behind structural engineering in nature and architecture in this 5-week course.
Embark on a fascinating journey into the world of structural engineering with this introductory course. Over five weeks, you'll explore the engineering principles that govern structures in nature, furniture, mechanical systems, and iconic buildings worldwide. Learn how different structures work, why they were designed in specific ways, and how they support loads. Dive into topics such as funicular forms, tension and compression resistance, and force flow through structures. You'll gain hands-on experience by conceptually designing and building prototypes, fostering creativity and innovation in engineering. Perfect for those curious about the built environment, this course offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, revealing the elegance and functionality behind structural forms and systems.
4.7
(13 ratings)
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What you'll learn
Analyze how and why structures in nature and architecture are designed and constructed
Conceptually design and build prototypes of structures
Recognize the creative and innovative aspects of engineering beyond math and science
Identify and compare various structural elements, forms, and systems
Describe the loads expected on a structure and the resulting flow of forces
Explain how funicular forms and cables resist tension in structures
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
PreRecorded video
Graded assignments, exams
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
Limited Access access
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Module Description
This introductory course explores the engineering principles behind structures in nature, architecture, and everyday objects. Students will learn about various structural forms and systems, including funicular forms, tension and compression resistance, and load-bearing elements like trusses, beams, and walls. The course emphasizes understanding how structures work, why they were designed in specific ways, and how forces flow through them. Participants will engage in hands-on activities, designing and building prototypes to apply their knowledge. The curriculum covers the comparison of different structural forms, the impact of dimensions on structural response, and the engineering considerations behind elegant and functional designs. By the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of structural engineering principles and their applications in the world around us.
Fee Structure
Instructor
Associate Professor
Vicki May has been teaching engineering since 1997 and joined Dartmouth in 2005, where she serves as an Instructional Associate Professor at the Thayer School of Engineering. She is dedicated to helping people of all ages grasp fundamental engineering concepts and appreciate the engineering present in their daily lives. Vicki enjoys building projects, often with her children, and strives to incorporate hands-on learning in her courses. She earned her BS in civil engineering from the University of Minnesota in 1991, followed by an MS and Ph.D. in civil/structural engineering from Stanford University in 1992 and 1996, respectively. Throughout her career, she has received multiple teaching awards, including Professor of the Year honors for both Dartmouth and New Hampshire.
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4.7 course rating
13 ratings
Frequently asked questions
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